A dental implant is a replacement for a missing tooth root, typically a small, screw-shaped post made of biocompatible titanium or a similar material. This post is surgically positioned into the jawbone to provide a stable and strong foundation for a replacement tooth. The purpose of this structure is to fully restore chewing function, preserve the integrity of the jawbone, and provide a natural-looking appearance. Modern implant procedures have a high success rate, often exceeding 95%, making them a durable solution for tooth loss.
Preparation and Initial Assessment
The implant journey begins with a thorough initial consultation to review a patient’s medical history and current oral health status. Diagnostic imaging is performed, most commonly using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), which provides a detailed three-dimensional view of the jaw structure. This advanced imaging allows the dental professional to accurately assess the quality and volume of the existing jawbone, which is necessary for a successful procedure.
Imaging also helps precisely locate important anatomical structures, such as the maxillary sinuses in the upper jaw and the inferior alveolar nerve in the lower jaw. Based on this information, a detailed treatment plan is mapped out, which determines the exact angle, depth, and size of the implant to be placed. If the bone density is found to be inadequate, preparatory procedures like bone grafting or a sinus lift may be scheduled first to create a strong foundation.
Stage One: Placing the Implant Fixture
The first surgical stage involves the precise placement of the titanium fixture into the jawbone. After the area is numbed with local anesthesia, a small incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone at the planned location. A specialized sequence of drills is then used to create an osteotomy, which is the prepared site for the implant. This drilling process is carefully controlled, often utilizing sterile saline irrigation to prevent the bone from overheating and suffering thermal damage.
The titanium implant post, which acts as the new tooth root, is then gently screwed into the prepared osteotomy site until it achieves high initial stability. Depending on the treatment plan, the implant may be completely covered by the gum tissue and sutured closed, or a small healing cap may be attached, which protrudes slightly through the gum.
Stage Two: The Healing Period and Osseointegration
This phase is considered the second stage and is often the longest waiting period, typically lasting between three to six months. During this time, a biological process called osseointegration occurs, where the living jawbone cells grow directly onto the surface of the titanium fixture. This forms a direct structural and functional connection without any intervening soft tissue layer, effectively locking the implant into the bone.
The duration of this healing period is dependent on factors such as the patient’s overall health, bone density at the implant site, and the implant’s location in the jaw. To maintain aesthetics and function during this time, a temporary prosthetic tooth, such as a removable flipper or an Essix retainer, is often provided. It is important that this temporary restoration does not place pressure on the healing implant, as this mechanical stress could compromise the osseointegration process.
Stage Three: Attaching the Restoration
Once osseointegration is confirmed, the final stage of the procedure can begin with the placement of the abutment, which is the connector piece that bridges the implant fixture to the visible replacement tooth. If the implant was covered by gum tissue, a minor procedure is performed to expose the top of the post. The abutment is then secured onto the implant, and the surrounding gum tissue is allowed a brief period, often one to two weeks, to heal and form a natural cuff around the connector.
After the gums have healed around the abutment, final impressions are taken to create the custom-designed crown. This crown is carefully crafted in a laboratory to match the shape, color, and size of the surrounding natural teeth for a seamless appearance. The restoration is then permanently secured to the abutment, either by dental cement or a small screw, completing the transition from the hidden titanium root to the fully functional, visible tooth.
Long-Term Care and Maintenance
Long-term care is necessary to ensure the longevity of the implant. Although the implant itself cannot decay like a natural tooth, the surrounding gum tissue and bone are susceptible to infection, a condition known as peri-implantitis.
Daily hygiene should involve brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the implant surface. Specialized cleaning aids are necessary to clean the space around and under the crown, including implant-specific floss or a water flosser. Regular professional cleanings and checkups are advised every six months to monitor the health of the gum and bone tissue. During these appointments, the hygienist will use non-metal instruments to clean the implant components, preventing surface damage that could attract bacterial plaque.