Welcome back to our dental implant series. In our previous post, we introduced what dental implants are and who might need them. Today, we’ll walk you through the detailed process of getting dental implants at Argyle Associates, Ottawa’s leading group of oral and maxillofacial surgeons. Understanding the steps involved can help alleviate any concerns you might have and prepare you for what to expect.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation at one of our clinics across Ottawa. During this visit, you will meet with one of our treatment coordinators and one of our experienced oral surgeons that will examine your oral health and discuss your treatment options with you. This assessment often includes X-rays and may involve 3D images to evaluate the condition of your jawbone and determine the best placement for the implant(s). Feel free to ask questions to the surgeon and/or treatment coordinator at the time of consult.
Step 2: Treatment Planning
Based on the initial assessment, we’ll coordinate with your dentist, a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This plan outlines everything from the number of implants needed, to the type of prosthetic (crown(s), bridges, or dentures) that will be placed on the implants. We ensure that you understand each phase of the procedure and are comfortable before moving forward.
Step 3: Pre-Surgical Preparation
Before the surgery, our team may need to prepare your mouth for the implants. This preparation could involve extractions, bone grafting to enhance the jawbone, or treatment of any existing oral health issues. These steps are crucial for ensuring the long-term success of the dental implant process.
Step 4: Implant Placement
The actual implant placement is a surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, depending on your preference and the complexity of the case. During the surgery, the surgeon places the titanium implant post into the jawbone. The area is then allowed to heal over a period of a few months, during which the implant integrates with the bone in a process called, osseointegration.
Step 5: Placing the Abutment
Once your implant has integrated with the jawbone, we proceed to the next step by placing the abutment. This piece serves as a connector between the implant and the prothesis. The abutment is either placed during the initial surgery or in a follow-up procedure after the implant has fully integrated.
Step 6: The final Prosthetic
The final step in the dental implant process is the placement of the prosthetic, whether that be a single crown, a bridge or overdenture. Once the gums have healed around the abutment(s), your treatment coordinator will coordinate on your behalf with your dentist to start the fabrication of the final prosthetic with their office. These prosthetics are designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, enhancing both function and aesthetics.
Step 7: Follow-Up Care
After your implants and new teeth are in place, regular follow-up visits with our clinic and regular routine hygiene appointments with your dentist are essential. These appointments ensure the health of your implant, gum tissue, and overall oral health. We also provide guidance on how to care for your implants to ensure they last a lifetime.
Conclusion
At Argyle Associates in Ottawa, we are committed to making your dental implant process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our team of experts are here to ensure that you receive the highest standard of care. Stay tuned for our next post in this series, where we will delve into the technological advancements that enhance the effectiveness and comfort of dental implant procedures.
If you’re ready to take the next step towards a beautiful and functional smile, contact us today to schedule your consultation. Let us help you restore not just your smile, but your confidence too.