You may suffer tooth loss at any stage of your life. This could be attributed to several reasons, like tooth decay, trauma, or gum disease. The space left behind due to the missing teeth can negatively impact your aesthetics, oral function, and occlusion. But thankfully, dental advancements have offered a permanent solution through implants. 

West Knoxville, TN dental implants can provide you with excellent teeth replacement solutions with enhanced durability and longevity. 

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is defined as a device that is surgically inserted into your upper or lower jawbone that mimics your lost tooth root. When inserted into the bone, it stimulates it and prevents bone resorption. Furthermore, implants provide a permanent anchorage for future tooth replacement restorations like crowns, bridges, and dentures. 

What does the implant process involve?

In regards to the implant process, here is a detailed step-by-step guide you can follow to be well aware of the dental implant procedure. 

Pre-procedure preparation

• Initial consultation

• • Your dentist will evaluate your oral cavity.
  • They will determine if you are an ideal candidate for implants. 

• Comprehensive examination

• • Your dentist will review your dental and medical history.
  • Dental X-rays will be taken to assess your bone health. This determines if you will require bone grafts. 

• Recording oral impressions

• • Several digital scans will be taken to create models to help study your jawbone structure for the fabrication of the implant post. 

Procedure

• Initial incision 
  • Your dentist will begin by administering a local anesthetic solution to numb the area.
  •  This also helps ease pain and discomfort.
  • A small part of your gums will be cut to gain access to the tooth socket near the missing space. 

• Cutting and drilling 
  • Your dentist will then drill right into your bone. 
  • An implant post will be inserted into the bone, and once it is complete, the incision on the gums will be sutured and allowed to heal. 

• Healing period 
  • After about 6 months, the incision is opened again to place a healing cap or collar on the post. 
  • This induces healing of the surrounding gum tissues. 
  • After about 2 to 3 weeks, the healing cap will be removed. 

• Abutment and crown placement

• • The selected abutment will be placed to support the final restoration. 
  • Finally, your dentist will place the permanent restoration, such as a crown. 

Conclusion 

Dental implants are often preferred to bridges and dentures since they offer permanent tooth replacement solutions. Though the procedure may take several weeks or months to complete, it is worth the time and effort involved. They look natural and are meant to last for many decades.