It was reported that in 2022, approximately 1,08,000 people got their dental implant procedure in Australia. It is estimated that the number will increase every year. But the question arises why Dental Implant?
It is becoming a popular treatment option to get permanent teeth to the jaw, whether you want a single or full denture. However, the duration to get the tooth (teeth) varies as there are various implant procedures to support your goal. Let’s know these procedures and the duration.
Types of Dental Implant Procedures
-
Endosteal Implants
So, if you’re missing a single tooth, endosteal implants are a go-to solution. A titanium post is skillfully placed right into your jawbone, kind of like a natural tooth’s root. Then, it is topped off with a crown, and you’ve got a functional, good-looking fix for that gap.
-
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants aren’t as common these days, but they’re still in the game, especially if you’re dealing with less bone density. These implants sit snug on your jawbone beneath the gums, with a post peeking through the gum to give support to your new artificial tooth.
-
Zygomatic Implants
When your jawbone makes it tricky for regular dental implants or grafting, zygomatic implants help. They’re like superheroes, especially in full-arch makeovers, and can also be the lifesavers for a single tooth when your jawbone is causing some trouble.
Time Duration for Dental Implants
Traditional Treatment
-
Meet Your Dentist – 1 Day
During your first visit, the dentist checks if dental implants are right for you. They’ll examine your mouth to ensure it’s healthy. If all’s good, you’ll schedule the implant surgery.
-
Possible Extra Steps – 3-12 Months (Optional)
Some may need extra fixes like jaw bone repair, tooth removal, or bone smoothing before getting implants. Recovery could take 3 to 12 months.
-
Implant Placement – 1-2 Weeks
If there is no need for additional fixes, the actual implant is placed in your gum and jaw 1-2 weeks after the first visit. They clean and stitch up the area, and then you head home.
-
Healing Time – 3-6 Months or More
Initial healing takes 1-2 weeks, but the implant needs more time to bond with your jawbone. This bonding, known as ‘osseointegration,’ can take 3-6 months or longer.
-
Crafting Your New Tooth – During Recovery
While you’re healing, the dentist is busy creating your new tooth. You’ll have a few check-ups for impressions to build your new tooth.
-
Adding a Connector – 1-2 Weeks
A week or two before your final visit, they add an abutment connector. It helps attach your permanent tooth and prevents your gums from healing over it.
-
Getting Your New Tooth – 1 Day
Finally, about 1-2 weeks after adding the abutment, your last appointment arrives. The dentist checks everything and then permanently attaches your new tooth, completing the process.
Everyone’s situation is different, so your journey with dental implants might be a bit unique.
Same Day Dental Implants
Guess what? There’s a speedier method for dental implants known as ‘same-day dental implants.’ No more waiting for months – you can now get implants in just a single day.
-
Day 1 – Consultation
So, you start with a chat, just like the regular drill. They check if you’re a fit for same-day implants and if any teeth need pulling out.
-
Same Day – Extraction and Implants
If a tooth needs to go, they do it on the spot. This saves you time compared to the usual waiting and an extra trip to the dentist.
-
Implant Placement
The dentist places tooth roots (dental implants) to stabilise the jawbone. They use guided surgery or technology for precise implant positioning.
-
Immediate Fix
After placing the implants, a temporary fix like a crown or bridge is added. It’s not as strong or good-looking but works immediately.
-
Healing Time (Bone Integration)
Over a few months, the implants fuse with the jawbone, creating a solid base for the final fix.
-
Permanent Solution
Once healed, the temporary fix is removed, and a custom-made final fix, matching your natural teeth in colour and shape, is put in place. This lasting solution replaces the missing tooth.
Care Tips To Follow Post Getting Dental Implants
- Only use a soft toothbrush and toothpaste when you have undergone any of the dental treatments like implants, root canals, composite veneers or others.
- Stay away from foods that can harm your implants and cause plaque buildup.
- Cut down on alcohol, especially in the first six months after implant surgery, to prevent quick plaque buildup and help healing.
- Quit smoking to avoid inflammation, weakened gums, and staining of your implants.
- Visit your dentist at least twice a year to control plaque, tartar, and ensure your implants are working well.
Wrapping Up
So, whether you’re on the traditional implant route or opting for the speedy same-day method, dental implants redefine smiles, offering a lasting fix for missing teeth. Your journey involves intricate steps or a quick turnaround, but the result remains the same – a confident, functional smile.
You can also explore other dental care and aesthetic enhancement options, like crowns, teeth whitening and porcelain veneers in Sydney at Cosmetique Dental™.