Losing a tooth can be a real downer, not just for your looks but for your oral health as well. Dental implants are a tried and tested solution for teeth replacement and smile transformation. If you want to try dental implants, you probably have many questions. How exactly does it work? What steps do the dentists follow? This article will answer those questions with a step-by-step guide to dental implants. 

1. Extract the Damaged Tooth

You first need to consult with a qualified implant dentist. Your dentist will evaluate your oral health and determine if you are fit for the procedure. If you are, they will extract your damaged tooth to create a space for the implant. However, if the tooth is already missing, the dentist will skip this step.

2. Jaw Preparation

This is a critical step, as it ensures the implant has a sturdy foundation to anchor into. If you have been missing a tooth for a long, your jaw bone may have begun to deteriorate. Your dentist may have to do a bone graft to give the implant something to grip onto. This involves using synthetic bone material or a portion of your bone to build up the area for the implant. After grafting, the bone will take some time to heal before the dentist can install the implant. However, this extra step ensures your implant is stable.

3. Surgery

This step might send a chill down your spine but you certainly have nothing to fear. Your dentist will use the latest technology to make the surgery quick and painless. They start by making a small incision in the gum tissue. Then, they insert the implant into the pilot hole and secure it with screws or pins. Finally, they will close the incision with sutures. And that is it. You are on your way to a beautiful new smile. After this, you need to take it easy for a few days and avoid hard or crunchy foods.

4. Healing and Osseointegration

The implant needs to fuse to the bone: osseointegration. This can take a couple of weeks, during which time you must be careful about what you eat and practice oral hygiene. After fusing to the bone, the implant will provide a strong foundation for your new tooth.

 5. Abutment and Final Restoration

The final step is to place an abutment on the implant. This abutment will serve as a support for the artificial tooth. Is the abutment in position? It is now time to fix the restoration. This may be a dental crown, bridge, or denture. But the dentist will have to consider the location of the implant and your specific needs. That said, you have now completed the dental implant procedure.

Now you know what dental implant treatment entails. If you are convinced that dental implants are a smart move, consult a competent and reputable dentist. With the right care and maintenance, your dental implants can last many years and improve your life.