The Procedure Explained
Initial Consultation
During your implant procedure Cleveland TN initial consultation, it is likely that an x-ray will be required, and a CT scan may also be necessary. Additionally, we will take impressions of your teeth. Depending on your specific situation, referrals to various specialists may be needed, which could include a general dentist, an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT), an oral surgeon, an orthodontist, a periodontist, or a prosthodontist.
We will conduct a thorough review of your medical history, and it is essential to disclose any underlying medical conditions that might influence the outcome of your implant procedure Cleveland TN. In cases where gum disease is present, we will prioritize its treatment before proceeding with the tooth implant process.
Dental Implant Surgery Step by Step
Dental implant procedure Cleveland TN involves a series of distinct steps that are separate from both the preparatory and aftercare phases. Upon your arrival at our office for the procedure, a sedative will be administered prior to any surgical intervention. Your dentist will first discuss the available sedation options, which typically include intravenous sedation, local injections, or general anesthesia.
Following this, an incision will be made in the gum tissue to expose the underlying jawbone. A specialized drill will then create a precise hole for the insertion of a titanium implant, chosen for its strength, lightweight properties, and minimal risk of rejection by the body. The entire procedure may last up to two hours, and you will likely leave with sutures in place.
A follow-up visit may be necessary for suture removal within one to two weeks, and it is crucial to adhere to your dentist’s care instructions during the healing period, which can last up to six weeks, to avoid complications such as implant failure.
Following the implant procedure Cleveland TN, you will be fitted with a healing collar that should be worn for approximately two weeks to prevent the gums from healing over the implant. Should the collar become dislodged, it is important to contact your dentist for reinstallation. During the healing phase, a biological process known as osseointegration will occur, where the implant fuses with the jawbone. Pain management can typically be achieved with over-the-counter medications, but if discomfort escalates, it is essential to inform your dentist promptly.
Osseointegration
Osseointegration refers to the biological process in which surrounding tissues grow around the dental implant post, effectively integrating it into the jawbone and ensuring its permanent fixation. The materials used for the implant are designed to be biocompatible, minimizing the risk of rejection by the body during this integration phase. Typically, this process requires a duration of three to six months for the lower jaw and may extend up to seven months for the upper jaw. It is crucial to note that smoking during this period can jeopardize the success of osseointegration, making it essential to cease smoking prior to the procedure.
Placing the Abutment
After the healing of the gums, a follow-up appointment will be necessary to finalize the implant procedure Cleveland TN. The abutment serves to secure the crown, and in some cases, it may be placed simultaneously with the metal post. While the recovery period following the abutment installation generally spans about two weeks, the fabrication of the permanent crown will take approximately six weeks, necessitating the use of a temporary crown to fill the gap during this time.
Placement of the Artificial Tooth or Teeth
The placement of both temporary and permanent crowns marks the conclusion of the dental implant procedure Cleveland TN. Once the mouth has healed completely and osseointegration is achieved, impressions of the teeth and mouth will be taken to create the temporary and permanent artificial teeth. A temporary crown will be provided for use until the permanent dentures are ready, at which point you will return for their placement.