In our previous blog post, we discussed the benefits of dental implants. Now, let’s take a look at the process of how the implant is placed.
The first question is, how long does it take for the patient to receive their new tooth?
By a new tooth, we mean a crown anchored on a single implant, and it can take anywhere from a few hours to up to a year before it can function as part of the dental arch. The length of the time interval depends on several factors: primarily on the general condition of the teeth and gums, whether bone grafting is necessary, if any teeth need to be extracted, which tooth (or teeth) need replacement, the number of teeth to be replaced, and the type of implant.
Before the final restoration, in the best-case scenario (existing but to be removed tooth, excellent bone quality, multiple implants placed simultaneously), a temporary crown can be placed immediately after implantation.
The Process of Implantation:
First Step: Consultation and Treatment Plan Development
This includes taking X-rays or CBCT scans, impressions, and a comprehensive examination before developing the treatment plan. Implant placement can be guided by 3D computer planning, using the specifically developed CAMLOG system, which we also employ in our clinic.
Additional Procedures: Tooth Extraction, Bone Grafting
These interventions are only carried out when necessary. In such cases, the time for performing the implantation is extended by the healing period. In the case of tooth extraction, this is a maximum of three months, but immediate implantation may also be considered. Following bone replacement, the healing time is generally six to nine months.
Second step: Surgical placement of dental implants.
The placement of the implant can be done under local anesthesia or sedation. After the anesthetic has numbed the treated area, an incision is made in the gum, exposing the bone. Different-sized drills are then used to prepare the “bed” for the implant (a small hole in the bone), and then the implant, usually made of titanium and shaped like a screw, is screwed into the bone.
The gum is then stitched closed, and the stitches are usually removed about a week later during a medical check-up, during which the position of the implant is also checked with the help of an X-ray by the implantologist.
Healing time:
The osseointegration of the implant proceeds similarly to the process of bone healing in a fracture, as the implant is made of tissue-friendly material, it is capable of fusing with the bone. This is what gives the implant its durable nature.. The healing time is 3-4 months. (Of course, if bone replacement has been performed, this time may be longer.)
We can talk about closed or open healing depending on whether the implant heals under the gum or whether a so-called gingival former cap is inserted to prevent the gum from closing over the implant.
In the case of closed healing, it is necessary to release the implant, during which a small incision is made in the gum, and a gingival former screw is placed in the implant, which promotes the proper formation of the gum so that the future crown fits nicely into place.
Third step: Preparation and placement of the superstructure in the mouth: crown / bridge / prosthesis.
The implantation process concludes with the preparation and placement of the so-called superstructure in the mouth.
After trials to ensure its fit, the crown, bridge, or prosthesis is fixed in the mouth with cement.
Once the implantation is successfully completed, the patient receives information about cleaning the implant. From this point on, only regular check-ups are necessary, just like with the original teeth.
If you would like to learn more about the implantology options offered by Cosmodent, please call us at +361 200 13 78 or request an appointment for a free consultation at info@cosmodent.hu.
