Transform Your Smile: 8 Steps to Getting Dental Implants in Wichita

Cambridge Family Dentistry | Dental Implants in Wichita

Are you considering dental implants in Wichita? You’re not alone. Many opt for this life-changing procedure to restore their smile, confidence, and oral health. Dental implants are a unique modern solution for those missing one or more teeth. They provide a permanent and natural-looking alternative to dentures or bridges. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential eight steps of getting dental implants, ensuring you’re well informed about the process from start to finish.

Insights on Dental Implants

Dental implants consist of tiny titanium rods inserted surgically into the jawbone under the gums. Once positioned, these implants enable the dentist to attach replacement teeth. Offering a secure base for either fixed or detachable prosthetic teeth, they are crafted to resemble your teeth.

 

Step 1: Initial Consultation

The journey to getting dental implants in Wichita begins with an initial consultation at Cambridge Family Dentistry. During this appointment, your dentist will examine your mouth, discuss your medical history, and determine whether you’re a suitable implant candidate. This step is crucial as it sets the stage for a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

 

Step 2: Comprehensive Examination

If you’re deemed a good candidate for dental implants, the next step involves a comprehensive oral examination. This includes taking X-rays and 3D images of your teeth and jawbone. These detailed images help your dentist assess your jawbone’s condition and plan the implants’ precise placement. Accurate imaging is vital to ensure the success of the procedure.

 

Step 3: Treatment Planning

After the examination, your dentist will develop a customized treatment plan. This plan outlines how many implants are needed, the type of implants to be used, and the overall timeline for the procedure. At this stage, you’ll also discuss anesthesia options and any other concerns you might have. The goal is to create a clear roadmap for your dental implant journey, addressing all aspects of the process.

 

Step 4: Pre-Surgical Preparations

Before the actual implant surgery, there are a few preparatory steps. These may include:

 

• Bone Grafting: If your jawbone isn’t thick enough or too soft, you might need a bone graft. This procedure ensures that the implant has a solid foundation to support it.
• Tooth Extraction: If a damaged tooth needs to be replaced, your dentist will extract it before the implant is placed.

 

These preparations are essential to ensure the success and longevity of your dental implants.

 

Step 5: Implant Placement Surgery

The implant placement surgery is a critical step in the process. This is performed under local anesthesia or sedation to ensure your comfort. During the surgery, the dentist makes an incision in your gum to expose the bone, drills a small hole into the empty socket, and screws the titanium implant post. The gum is then stitched back over the implant. This post acts as the root of your new tooth.

 

Step 6: Healing and Osseointegration

After the surgery, a healing period of several months is required. During this time, a process called osseointegration occurs, where the jawbone grows around and integrates with the titanium post. This process is crucial for the stability and durability of the implant. During follow-up visits, your dentist will monitor your progress to ensure everything is healing correctly.

 

Step 7: Abutment Placement

Once osseointegration is complete, the next step is to place the abutment. The abutment is a small connection piece that attaches to the implant post and will hold the new tooth (crown) in place. This minor surgery involves reopening the gum to expose the implant, attaching the abutment, and then allowing the gum to heal for a few weeks.

 

Step 8: Crown Placement

The final step is the placement of the artificial tooth or crown. Impressions of your teeth will be taken by your dentist to custom-make a crown that perfectly aligns with your natural teeth in terms of shape, size, and shade. After the crown is crafted, it is firmly fixed onto the abutment. Cheers, you now have a fully functional and aesthetically pleasing dental implant!

 

Maintaining Your Dental Implants

Caring for your implants is crucial to their success and longevity. Regular dental check-ups, good at-home oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing, and avoiding hard or sticky foods can help maintain your implants for years.

 

Schedule Your Consultation at Cambridge Family Dentistry Today!

Are you ready to transform your smile with dental implants in Wichita? Don’t wait any longer to finally get the smile you deserve. Contact the experienced team at Cambridge Family Dentistry today to schedule your initial consultation. Let us guide you through every step of the process and help you regain your confidence with a beautiful, healthy smile. Call us now to book your appointment and take the first step towards a new you!