Want to have an oral implant fitted but aren’t sure of the process?
Here, it is broken down using jargon-free language so that you can know what to expect.
Consultation
During your consultation for having a dental implant Melbourne, your dentist will assess your overall oral health, enquire about your general health and take x-rays to assess the condition of your jaw.
If this all gets the green light, you will be invited back for a fitting
Fitting
The fitting of an implant or implants may be spread over several appointments; it is a delicate procedure that takes a skilled dentist to pull off, and it cannot be rushed.
Your gums will be numbed and then opened, to expose the jawbone underneath; if you’re getting a recently lost tooth replaced, then the vacant socket will be used. Alternatively, a new socket may be drilled.
Once a hole is created, your dentist will fit the implant into it, and once secured, the gum will be closed around it.
Aftercare
So, you’re at home after having your implants fitted, and there is some soreness as the anaesthetic wears off; this is normal, and most dental teams will advise you on how to mitigate this with over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol.
As the implant fuses and settles, you will need to avoid exerting pressure on the site and should aim to consume softer, healthy foods whilst the inflammation dies down. You should also avoid brushing around the site of the implant and keep it clean using saltwater until your dentist advises you to move back onto brushing.
If you spot signs of infection around the implant site or have any concerns about infection, call your dentist immediately.
Prosthetics
Just before having the prosthetic tooth or teeth fitted, your dentist will perform an x-ray to ensure that the implant has fused to the jawbone.
If this has occurred, then your dentist will move on to fit the prosthetics; these can range from being a complete set of dentures, a fitted bridge or even a single crown that will look like the top of a tooth.
Typically, fitting the prosthetics can be completed within one appointment and may take up to an hour, depending on the number of prosthetics and where they are being placed in your mouth. Once the fitting is completed, you will be able to bite and chew food with ease and also show off your new gap-free smile to the world!
Maintenance
Because your oral implants cannot succumb to decay, it can be tempting to assume that you will not have to look after them.
However, to maintain your implants, you will need to brush and floss them every day, keep an eye out for signs of gum disease and attend dental checkups every 6 months. Failure to stick to this regimen may result in the implants becoming loose and falling out prematurely.
If you need some advice on how to properly care for your newly fitted implants, talk to your dental team
DISCLAIMER
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
