Riverside Dental | Wichita Dentist
Are you sick and tired of hiding your smile because of missing teeth? Imagine confidently walking into a room, knowing that your teeth look as natural as they feel. Dental implants could possibly be the solution you’ve been searching for. But what exactly does the process involve? How do you transition from dealing with gaps in your teeth to proudly displaying a complete, healthy smile?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of getting dental implants so you know exactly what to expect. Whether you’re considering dental implants for the first time or have been contemplating them for a while, this guide is for you.
What Are Dental Implants?
Before diving into the detailed steps, it’s essential to understand dental implants and why they’re such a popular choice. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically placed into your jawbone. These titanium implants provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth designed to blend in perfectly with your natural teeth.
Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants are permanent and copy the function and appearance of natural teeth. This means you can speak, eat, and smile confidently without worrying about the discomfort or inconvenience of removable prosthetics.
Step 1: Consultation with Your Wichita Dentist
The first step in your journey to a new smile is a comprehensive consultation with a trusted Wichita dentist. During this initial appointment, your dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth, teeth, and gums. This evaluation will include a review of your medical history, dental X-rays, and possibly a 3D scan to assess the condition of your jawbone.
Why It’s Important:
This step is crucial because it determines whether you’re suitable for dental implants. We need to ensure that your jawbone is strong enough to support the implants and that there are no underlying issues, such as gum disease, that could complicate the procedure. If your bone density is insufficient, don’t worry—there are options like bone grafting to prepare your jaw for implants.
Step 2: Customized Treatment Planning
Once you’ve been cleared as a candidate for dental implants, your Wichita dentist will create a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs. This plan outlines the number of implants required, the type best suited for you, and the timeline for the entire process.
Why It’s Important:
A personalized treatment plan ensures that every aspect of your procedure is carefully planned and executed. This meticulous planning helps avoid surprises and ensures you’re fully informed about what to expect at each stage of the journey.
Step 3: Tooth Extraction
If you have damaged or decayed teeth in the area where the implants will be placed, your dentist will need to remove them first. Tooth extraction is a relatively simple procedure, and your dentist will ensure you’re comfortable throughout.
Why It’s Important:
Removing unhealthy teeth is necessary to create a clean, healthy environment for dental implants. This step is essential in laying a strong foundation for their success.
Step 4: Bone Grafting (If Required)
Sometimes, your jawbone may not have the necessary density or volume to support an implant. If this is the case, your Wichita dentist may recommend a bone graft. Bone grafting involves adding bone material to the jaw, eventually fusing with the existing bone to create a more substantial base.
Why It’s Important:
Bone grafting is a critical step for those who need it. It ensures that the dental implant has a strong, stable foundation, which is vital to the long-term success of the procedure. Without adequate bone support, the implant might fail.
Step 5: Implant Placement
This is the stage where a new smile truly begins to take shape. During the implant placement procedure, your Wichita, KS, dentist will surgically insert the titanium post into the empty socket in your jawbone. This tiny post acts as an artificial root holding your new tooth.
Why It’s Important:
This step’s precision is vital for the implant’s success. The titanium post must be placed at the correct depth and angle to ensure it integrates well with the jawbone. Proper placement is essential to the implant’s longevity and functionality.
Step 6: Osseointegration – The Healing Process
After the implant is placed, the healing process called osseointegration begins. Over the next few months, the implant will fuse with your jawbone, creating a strong and permanent foundation for your new tooth.
Why It’s Important:
Osseointegration is what makes implants so reliable and durable. This process ensures that your implant can withstand the daily forces of chewing and biting, just like a natural tooth. It’s essential to be patient during this phase, as rushing it could jeopardize the success of the implant.
Step 7: Abutment Placement
Once osseointegration is complete, your Wichita dentist will place an abutment on the implant. The abutment is a small connector piece that holds the crown (the artificial tooth) in place.
Why It’s Important:
The abutment is crucial in ensuring that the crown sits properly on the implant and aligns perfectly with your surrounding teeth. This step is vital for the function and aesthetics of your new smile.
Step 8: Crown Placement – The Final Touch
Finally, the crown—the visible part of your new tooth—is attached to the abutment. Crowns are custom-made to perfectly match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural look.
Why It’s Important:
A well-crafted crown looks great and functions just like a natural tooth, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods and speak clearly.
Step 9: Aftercare and Maintenance
After completing your dental implant, it is essential to follow your Wichita dentist’s aftercare instructions closely. Maintaining good oral hygiene, attending regular check-ups, and being mindful of your diet during the healing process are all crucial for the longevity of your implants.
Why It’s Important:
Proper aftercare ensures that your dental implants remain healthy and functional for years to come. With the appropriate care, your implants can last a whole lifetime, making them a wise investment.
Take the First Step Toward Your New Smile with Riverside Dental
Dental implants are more than just a cosmetic fix—they’re a long-term investment in oral health. If you’re ready to transform your smile, it’s time to take the first step. Schedule a consultation with a trusted Wichita dentist at Riverside Dental. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized care and guiding you every step of the dental implant process. Don’t wait any longer—contact Riverside Dental today and embark on your journey to a beautiful, lasting smile!
Visit us at Riverside Dental or give us a call to schedule your consultation. Your dream smile is just an appointment away!
