Dental implants are artificial tooth root replacements that anchor crowns, bridges, or dentures into the gums. After the initial surgery, they are meant to be permanent fixtures that can last decades without needing replacement.
As of today, there are no clinical trials that have proved how long dental implants will last in the mouth. The procedure is expensive and time-consuming for patients because it requires two surgeries: one to implant the device and another to attach the replacement teeth.
Breaking Down the Process
Here is a breakdown of the two-stage implant process:
1. The first surgery
The surgeon will drill a hole into your jawbone, where he or she will insert a titanium post that serves as an anchor for the artificial tooth root. In some cases, the procedure may require bone grafting to promote healthy bone growth around the implant before attaching it to the jawbone. This should be considered if your gums have receded from other teeth in order to prevent any possible infection from reaching and harming your jawbone.
Bone grafting involves taking a piece of soft tissue from another part of your body and surgically placing it near where you need bone growth.
2. The second surgery
The length of time you will need to wait after the first surgery before having the replacement teeth attached depends on how your bone and gum tissue heal, but it is usually about three months. During this period, it’s recommended that you avoid brushing any part of the implant or the surrounding gums.
After three months, your dentist will make a second incision on your gum and screw new teeth into place onto the titanium posts that were implanted during your first surgery. He or she will seal it all together using dental cement.
Eligibility
Patients who are interested in getting a full mouth dental procedure must meet the following eligibility criteria:
1. Good oral health
In order to have a successful outcome, your gums and teeth must be in good health. In most cases, you will need to visit your dentist for a few teeth cleanings or dental check-ups before being considered eligible for the procedure.
If any of your existing teeth are cracked or have chips or have been root canal-treated, dental implants may not be right for you. It is because these problems can potentially cause adverse effects, such as infections and tooth loss, especially if you lack healthy gums around your implant posts
2. Sound mind and body
The process can be strenuous on both mind and body since it takes about two months post-surgery until the final attachment of replacement teeth is complete. If you have any conditions that can impact your healing processes, such as a heart condition or blood clotting disorder, then you won’t be able to receive implants.
3. Ability to come back for a second procedure
You must have a strong commitment because you need to be physically and mentally able to return for the second surgery, which should take place about three months after your first operation. If you have any other health issues that can keep you from attending your follow-up, then implants aren’t for you.
4. Your daily dental routine
To keep your Dental Implants in good condition, you have to practice proper oral hygiene. To do this, you should brush for two minutes at least twice a day and floss once a day. If any of your existing teeth were already damaged or severely decayed, then you should consider getting them replaced with implants too.
