How Are Dental Implants Done?

Within this blog, we will be covering all the key points to know about how a dental implant procedure is carried out. This includes what is involved, the success rate and the potential risks involved.

What is a dental implant?

In basic terms, a dental implant is the cylindrical component which helps to integrate with the bone of the jaw and in turn support the teeth be that a dental crown as a single tooth, or multiple teeth such as a dental bridge or denture. A dental implant can be required for several reasons, among these include loss of tooth/teeth, gaps within teeth and tooth replacement.

A dental implant is not the only option however, as you could also have a dental bridge or removable option such as dentures to replace missing teeth. Although with these alternative options you will need support from adjacent teeth and or gums, which is not an issue with a dental implant as this is an option that does not affect the adjacent teeth.

Dental implant success rate and potential risks

Although the success rate of a dental implant is remarkably high, there is always a minor possibility that a minimal proportion of cases do end up potentially failing. This increase is greater in smokers and patients who have poor oral hygiene. The success rate of those with good oral hygiene and non-smokers is extremely high, often around the 98% mark. Subsequently, it is always recommended that you maintain strong oral hygiene, reduce/quit smoking and have regular hygienist visits to ensure the implants last as long as possible.

While following the aforementioned advice should minimise implant failure, unforeseen issues may still occur. The most common issues being discomfort, bleeding, and inflammation. However, you should not worry if these issues do occur as they are almost always short-term and will likely be gone within 5-7 days. In the meantime, you can manage them with painkillers, and by avoiding any significant pressure to the affected area.

Dental implant fees

The final fee of a dental implant will vary based on the number of implants you have, whether you want a crown/bridge/denture, and various other factors. You will be informed of the costs in a consultation before moving forward, and even though circumstances can change, the fee for the treatment is usually fixed prior to care delivery.

The dental implant procedure

The dental implant procedure itself requires special measurements to be taken to plan for the surgery. A low radiation CT scan is recommended to ensure that the patients’ specific scenario is planned for adequately. The gum health is also a vital factor, as for implants to last a significant period of time, a patient must have optimal health to avoid potential future complications.

In some scenarios, if problematic teeth are identified then they may require prior extraction and a healing period before an implant can be made. However, it is sometimes possible for the extraction and implant to happen on the same day depending on the quality and quantity of the bone. In most cases when tooth/teeth need removal before implant the minimum healing period is around three months, but it can vary from case to case.

In the surgical placement of the implant, a local anaesthesia will be administered to numb the mouth, or IV sedation will be utilised. That way you won’t suffer from any pain or discomfort. The dentist makes an incision in the gums to place the implant into the jawbone in the desired location. Once this has been placed, the dentist will close the gums over the implant to ensure it remains covered.

Following this, you will need time to recover, and the second phase of the procedure will take place after a few months. This will allow the bone to grow around the implant, forming the necessary strength to remain in place. The process is known as osseointegration, with the titanium becoming ‘at one’ with the bone. At the second phase, the dentist will examine the implant to ensure it is secure and robust. Following this a connecting piece called an abutment is placed over the implant and will be used to hold the new tooth.

Once the gums have healed, the dentist will take impressions and create a custom replacement tooth, which is known as a crown. This crown is then attached to the abutment. Following the implant procedure, the usual healing time is between three to six months to ensure the implant will fully integrate within the jawbone. Following this there will be an impression or digital scan taken to allow for the construction of a final crown or potentially a bridge/denture.

Are you a suitable candidate for dental implants?

While the majority of individuals are good dental implant candidates, there are some scenarios which can prevent the procedure taking place or reduce the success rates. Individuals which can likely not have a dental implant include those with significant heart issues, uncontrolled diabetes, and certain gum diseases. Additionally, if you have high doses of warfarin, or are undergoing long term bisphosphonate therapy then it is likely you will be unable to have the procedure. A lack of bone can sometimes also prevent you from undergoing the procedure, however, there are other procedures that can be undertaken beforehand or at the time of implant placement to add additional bone. Subsequently, this should not be a major hindrance to the dental implant procedure, but it will likely take longer as the bone will have to heal also alongside the implant.