The steps of the implant procedure include important stages to ensure the successful execution of dental implant treatment. First, in the assessment and planning stage, the dentist thoroughly evaluates the patient’s jaw structure and determines the position of the implant.
If the jawbone is not thick or dense enough, methods such as bone grafting may be required to prepare the bone structure. Next, the stage of opening the slots where the implant will be placed comes. This process ensures that the implant is placed in the correct position. After the implant is placed, the healing process begins, during which the implant fuses with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration.
After osseointegration is complete, an abutment, which is a connecting piece, is placed on the implant. Finally, the stage of preparing and placing dental prostheses comes. This stage allows the patient to regain chewing function and helps achieve an aesthetic appearance.
For details on implant types and other information, read our article on what you need to know before getting an implant.
Assessment and Planning
The first stage of the implant procedure involves a detailed assessment and planning process. This stage begins with the evaluation of the patient’s current oral health. The dentist conducts a thorough examination of the patient’s teeth and gums to identify suitable areas for implant placement. The patient’s aesthetic and functional expectations are also considered at this stage; this plays a crucial role in shaping the treatment plan.
Additionally, a detailed analysis of the jawbone is performed before the implant application. This analysis is usually carried out using imaging techniques such as X-rays and sometimes CT scans. Determining the structure, density, and suitable areas of the jawbone for implant placement is extremely important in this step.
During the assessment process, the features of different implant brands are also considered; each implant brands may have different advantages and features, which ensures the correct selection of the treatment plan and implant. Careful planning of this stage increases the success rate of the implant and makes the treatment process more efficient.
Preparation of Bone Structure (if necessary)
Preparing the bone structure for implant treatment involves procedures to ensure the jawbone has sufficient volume and density to support the implant. This process becomes necessary when the natural structure of the jawbone is inadequate. The jawbone can lose its volume over time, especially after tooth loss, making the area for implant placement insufficiently strong. In such cases, it is necessary to strengthen the bone structure.
The most commonly used method in preparing the bone structure is bone grafting. A bone graft is a material used to replace missing or weak bone tissue. This material can be taken from the patient’s own body (autograft), can be animal-sourced (xenograft), can be taken from a donor (allograft), or can be synthetic. The bone graft is placed in the jawbone to promote bone growth and strengthening, thus making the area suitable for implant placement.
The bone grafting procedure may not be suitable for everyone. It can be risky for individuals with poor overall health, certain chronic illnesses, or those who have problems with bone growth and healing. The answer to the question of who can get dental implants is of great importance at the stage of preparing the bone structure. The bone grafting procedure should be applied only in necessary cases and to suitable candidates.
Opening the Slots for the Implant
Opening the slots for the implant is a preparatory procedure for placing the implant in the jawbone. This stage involves the dentist carefully working on the jawbone to ensure the implant is placed in the correct position and depth. The slots for the implant are opened according to the pre-determined treatment plan and usually under local anesthesia.
The pain felt during the opening of the slots for the implant is minimal because local anesthesia is applied, and the patient does not feel pain. The process of placing the implant is generally comfortable, and most patients do not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
Placement of the Dental Implant
The placement of the dental implant involves inserting the implant into the jawbone at the correct position and depth. This stage is carried out by a dentist or implantologist according to the pre-determined treatment plan. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia using modern surgical techniques.
The process of placing the implant occurs as follows:
The dentist carefully prepares the area where the implant will be placed and takes measurements. Then, a small incision is made in the jawbone using special surgical tools, and a slot is opened for the implant. The implant is then carefully inserted into this slot and positioned to fit harmoniously with the jawbone.
The time required for placing a single implant can vary depending on several factors. Generally, the process of placing a single implant takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Healing Process of the Implant Site (Osseointegration)
The healing process of the implant site is a natural biological process in which the implant fuses with the jawbone and becomes firmly established. This process, called osseointegration, refers to the integration of the implant with the jawbone to form a stable structure. After the implant is placed, the jawbone begins to grow bone cells towards the surface of the implant. During this process, the implant’s surface comes into contact with the jawbone, and over time, bone cells adhere to the implant’s surface, integrating it into the jawbone.
The healing process generally varies between 3 to 6 months. This period can vary depending on the bone density of the area where the implant is placed, the patient’s overall health, and the size of the implant.
During the healing process, a temporary dental prosthesis or a temporary cover may be placed over the implant. However, in some cases, nothing is placed over the implant, and the patient may remain without a tooth for a period during the healing process. This is important for the successful osseointegration of the implant and the formation of a strong bond with the jawbone.
Placement of the Abutment
An abutment is a connecting piece placed on the implant and holds the dental prosthesis. After the implant is placed, the abutment placement procedure is performed following the completion of the osseointegration process. This procedure is typically carried out 2 to 6 months after the implant placement, allowing sufficient time for the implant to fuse securely with the jawbone.
Preparation and Placement of Dental Prostheses
After the abutment is placed, the preparation and placement of dental prostheses stage follows. This stage involves designing and producing the permanent dental prosthesis that will be placed on the implant. The dentist or dental technician customizes the prosthesis to match the patient’s mouth structure and tooth color. The design of the prosthesis is done considering the patient’s aesthetic expectations and chewing function.
When is the Tooth Placed After Implant Screws are Inserted?
After the implant screws are inserted, the dental prosthesis is usually placed within a few weeks. The implant screws refer to the screws placed on the abutment on the implant. These screws help to stabilize the dental prosthesis and keep it in the correct position. After the implant screws are inserted, the dentist checks the fit of the prosthesis and makes adjustments if necessary. The placement of the tooth is completed within a few weeks after the implant screws are inserted.
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