Tooth Implant Procedure: Before & After

Tooth loss, whether due to decay, gum disease, or injury, can significantly impact your oral health, self-esteem, and overall well-being. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers a revolutionary solution: implantation dentistry. Implantation dentistry is where dental implants with crowns are used to replace missing teeth. These innovative prosthetics, also known as implant teeth, go beyond simply filling gaps in your smile. They offer a permanent, natural-looking, and functionally superior alternative to traditional options like dentures or bridges.

Understanding the Process: From Consultation to Crown Placement
The dental implant procedure typically involves several key stages:

1. Consultation and Evaluation
Finding a qualified and experienced dentist specialising in implant dentistry is crucial for successful outcomes. Research on the dentist for dental implants so that you can choose a reliable and certified dentist. These professionals offer comprehensive care, from initial consultations and personalised treatment plans to precise surgical procedures and post-operative care, ensuring a smooth and successful experience throughout your implant journey.

During the initial consultation, your dentist will thoroughly evaluate your oral health, discuss your individual needs and expectations, and assess your suitability for implant placement. X-rays or CT scans might be required to determine jawbone density and plan implant placement.

2. Surgical Implant Placement
This minor surgical procedure involves placing the implant screw(s) into the jawbone. Depending on the complexity of the case and bone density, additional procedures like bone grafting might be necessary before implant placement.

3. Healing and Osseointegration
Following implant placement, a healing period of 3 months is required for the implant to fuse with the jawbone. This process is known as osseointegration. During this time, temporary restorations can be used to maintain aesthetics and functionality.

4. Abutment Placement and Crown Restoration
Once osseointegration is complete, a small connector piece called an abutment is attached to the implant. Finally, a custom-made crown, crafted to match the colour, size, and shape of your surrounding teeth, is affixed to the abutment, completing the restoration process.

How much dental implants costs
Implant surgery $2000 (medisave deductible $1250)
Implant crown $1600
Total: $3600 plus gst

The cost of one tooth replacement is about $3600 if there are no complications. 

Cost breakdown
Cost of implant teeth depends on several factors.

1. Number of Implants Needed
Replacing a single missing tooth will naturally cost less than replacing multiple teeth or an entire arch.

2. Complexity of the Procedure
Additional procedures like bone grafting, required for patients with insufficient jawbone density, can significantly increase the overall cost.

3. Material and Type of Implant
The materials used for both the implant itself, typically titanium and the crown where options include porcelain or zirconia, can influence the price.

4. Dentist’s Experience and Location
Highly experienced dentists or clinics situated in prime locations may have higher fees.

Book an appointment with your dentist to discuss the treatment and the total cost of your dental implants. 

What to Expect During Recovery
Following the implant placement surgery, some discomfort and swelling are expected. Your dentist will prescribe pain medication and provide detailed post-operative instructions to minimise discomfort and promote optimal healing. Maintaining proper oral hygiene during this time is crucial to prevent infection.

After dental implant surgery, it’s essential to follow specific post-operative care instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon to ensure proper healing and minimise the risk of complications. Here’s what to do after dental implant surgery:

1. Manage Pain and Discomfort
Take any prescribed pain medications as directed by your dentist or oral surgeon to manage discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen may also be recommended.

2. Apply Ice Packs
Use ice packs or cold compresses on the outside of your face near the surgical site to reduce swelling and inflammation. Apply ice intermittently for 20 minutes on, then 20 minutes off, for the first 24-48 hours following surgery.

3. Control Bleeding
Bite down gently on a clean gauze pad placed over the surgical site to control bleeding. Change the gauze pads as needed until bleeding subsides, but avoid excessive spitting or rinsing, as this can dislodge blood clots and delay healing.

4. Rest and Relaxation
Rest and avoid strenuous activities for the first few days following surgery to promote healing. Elevate your head while sleeping to reduce swelling.

5. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid using straws for the first few days after surgery, as sucking motions can disrupt blood clots and increase the risk of complications.

6. Soft Diet
Stick to a soft or liquid diet for the first few days after surgery to minimise discomfort and avoid putting pressure on the surgical site. Opt for foods such as yoghourt, smoothies, mashed potatoes, and soup.

7. Oral Hygiene
Follow your dentist’s instructions for oral hygiene after dental implant surgery. You may be advised to gently rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution or prescribed mouthwash to keep the surgical area clean. Avoid brushing or flossing near the surgical site until instructed otherwise.

8. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol for at least the first few days after surgery, as these habits can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications.

9. Follow-Up Appointments
Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your dentist or oral surgeon for monitoring and removal of sutures if necessary. Your dentist will assess your healing progress and provide further instructions for ongoing care.

10. Report Any Concerns
If you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, swelling, fever, or any other unusual symptoms, contact your dentist or oral surgeon immediately for further guidance.

By following these post-operative care instructions and maintaining good oral hygiene, you can promote proper healing and ensure the long-term success of your dental implant surgery. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime for many patients.

Make an appointment with Minmed Dental here and consult our dentist today!