This is an article of two parts. While the fitting of the dental implant itself is a relatively quick surgical procedure performed under local anaesthetic, the overall process from consultation through to completion of treatment is lengthy with several long gaps between each stage of the process.
To help prospective clients understand the process of dental implants in Essex and how they transform your smile, confidence, and jawline, we’ve created this article which is all about the dental implant timeline and what to expect.
What Has to Happen Before a Dental Implant is Fitted?
A dental implant is a screw which is embedded into the jawline during the surgical process, creating a replacement root onto which the false tooth can then be screwed.
In order for this treatment to take place and be deemed a success, your dentist will first assess the gap in your teeth and ensure that you have sufficient jawbone to hold the implant in place. An extraction may be required if there are parts of the original tooth still embedded in the jawbone, with your dentist checking that the area is clear for the implant.
Once the pre-treatment assessments are complete, we move towards scheduling surgery.
Understanding the Surgical Process and Aftercare
The surgery that installs the dental implant is just step one in your journey to a better and more permanent smile – with the aftercare following that surgery integral to eventually getting a permanent false tooth fitted.
The surgical procedure sees the implant embedded securely in the jawbone, with clients looking at between 3-5 days of swelling post-surgery as their implant settles. Crucially, this implant then requires anywhere between two and six months of recovery and healing time, during which the jawbone can fuse around the implant before the permanent tooth is fitted. During this healing period, temporary bridges or dentures can be provided to conceal the gap in your smile and to minimise the impact of the surgery on your confidence.
Receiving Your Permanent Replacement Tooth
Once the implant has had sufficient time to heal and settle, you can finally get your permanent tooth fitted.
An abutment will be fitted to the top of the implant, which then holds the replacement crown in place – with most clients heralding this lengthy but comprehensive treatment plan for giving them a revitalised smile that lasts the test of time and everyday use.
While the process of getting a dental implant fitted takes time, including months of healing between the implant itself being fitted and the final replacement tooth being screwed into position, clients find that this process grants them the lasting smile they’ve always wanted. Replacement crowns and bridges are coloured to replicate the exact look of your natural teeth, and blend in perfectly – no matter how vibrant your smile.
To find out more about the process of dental implants in Essex or to book your consultation, get in touch with your local practice today.
Mario