A full breakdown of the dental implant process, every step explained clearly

For many patients who don't understand the details, a dental implant seems like a terrifying surgery, but in fact, with the development of implant dentistry today, many professional dental hospitals are already thoroughly experienced at it.

Schematic diagram of the dental implant process

[Before surgery]

1. A healthy oral environment is an important prerequisite for successful implantation. An oral examination, especially periodontal examination and treatment, is very important. Therefore, before getting a dental implant, an oral examination should be done, including the following.

2. Bone quality assessment. Since the implant must be embedded in the alveolar bone, a bone quality assessment should be performed before implantation. Generally, the longer a tooth is missing, the more severe the bone loss becomes. Therefore, when a tooth is missing, it should be implanted as early as possible. In addition, some systemic diseases, such as diabetes and osteoporosis, can affect bone quality. Therefore, these patients should inform the doctor before surgery so that the surgical risk can be assessed.

[During surgery]

1. Determine the surgical plan.The doctor will ask in detail about the patient's medical history and health status, and perform the necessary general and oral examinations, such as taking a panoramic dental X-ray, measuring blood pressure, checking a complete blood count, and so on, in order to understand the bone quality and bone volume of the missing area, determine whether surgery is suitable, and then formulate the relevant plan.

2. Once the plan is set, insert the implant.That is, in a dedicated sterile room, under local anesthesia, a specially designed implant drill is used to prepare a hole in the alveolar bone, and then a titanium screw made of pure titanium is inserted into the alveolar bone at the missing tooth site. Next comes the bone healing period, during which the implant slowly heals and integrates with the bone beneath the gums.

3. Prepare the transitional denture.Most patients need a temporary denture to help them get through the period while the implant and bone heal. If the temporary tooth can be made before surgery, the patient can wear it immediately after surgery, without affecting normal life.

[After surgery]

Follow the doctor's instructions and attend regular follow-up visits for the implant to observe how it is doing. As long as good oral hygiene is maintained and regular checkups are done, an artificial implant can last as long as a natural tooth.