The full dental implant process has three stages, from preoperative examination to postoperative follow-up visits

At the mention of dental implants, many patients feel nervous, thinking it is a frightening major surgery. In fact, with the continuous development of implant technology, professional dental hospitals today are already well versed in performing dental implants. The whole process can be divided into three stages: preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative. Once you understand the process clearly, you can cooperate with your dentist more calmly throughout the treatment.

Preoperative: oral examination and bone quality assessment cannot be skipped

A good oral environment is an important prerequisite for successful implantation. A comprehensive oral examination must be done before implant placement, and periodontal examination and treatment are especially critical; any periodontal problems must be dealt with properly first.

Bone quality assessment is equally essential. Because the implant needs to be embedded in the alveolar bone, the bone condition must be assessed before surgery. Generally speaking, the longer the tooth has been missing, the more severe the bone loss, so implants should be placed as early as possible after tooth loss. In addition, some systemic diseases such as diabetes and osteoporosis can also affect bone quality. People with such conditions must inform their dentist truthfully before surgery so that the surgical risk can be assessed.

Intraoperative: implant placement in three steps

The first step is to determine the surgical plan. The dentist will ask in detail about the patient's medical history and health status, and carry out the necessary general and oral examinations, such as taking a panoramic oral X-ray, measuring blood pressure and checking a complete blood count, so as to understand the bone quality and bone volume in the missing tooth area, judge whether surgery is suitable, and then formulate a corresponding implant plan.

The second step is to place the implant. Once the plan is confirmed, the patient is arranged in a dedicated sterile room, and under local anesthesia, the dentist uses a specially made implant machine to prepare a hole in the alveolar bone, then inserts the implant screw made of pure titanium into the alveolar bone at the missing tooth site. Next comes the bone healing period, allowing the implant to gradually heal together with the bone beneath the gums.

The third step is to prepare a 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 is made before surgery, the patient can wear it right after surgery, with basically no impact on normal life.

Postoperative: regular follow-up visits make dental implants last longer

Getting an implant is not a one-time, permanent solution. Patients should return for regular follow-up visits as instructed by the dentist, so the dentist can observe how the implant is doing. As long as you maintain good oral hygiene and keep up with regular checkups, an artificial implant can last just as long as a natural tooth.