Dental Implant Team
Dental implants offer some of the best tooth replacement options on the market today. From the replacement of a single tooth, many, or all of one’s teeth, dental implants can do it all. This functionality is due to the ways in which the simple three-part system of a dental implant mimics the components of a natural tooth; from roots to crown, dental implants truly replace every single part of a missing tooth, leading to increased functionality, better aesthetic outcomes, and longevity that simply can’t be beat.
The success of a dental implant is only guaranteed, however, by a full and capable team of dental professionals that can effectively work together to plan, create, place, and maintain the system put in place. This means that throughout the process of having dental implants put into place, you’ll be working with a dedicated team that is working towards one common goal: making your dental implants as strong and successful as they can be.
Primary Dentist
The first person that you’ll likely consult with about possible dental implants is your own primary dentist. She or he will be able to talk you through the basics of dental implant creation, placement, and maintenance, and can also screen you to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.
During this phase, your dentist will ask some questions about your overall health, including any underlying conditions you experience or medications you may take. She or he will also perform a dental exam and likely take x-rays to examine the structures that are not visible to the eye. At this point, she or he will be able to help you decide if you have the appropriate level of baseline and oral health to undergo the procedures that dental implants entail.
If you are in fact a good candidate for dental implants, your dentist will likely refer you to an oral surgeon that will be the next addition to your dental implant team. Going forward, you will also continue to receive counsel and support from your primary dentist; the oral surgeon is an addition to the team rather than a change in care providers.
Oral surgeon
The oral surgeon is the person who will perform the first part of your dental implant placement. She or he will work with your dentist to determine the proper placement and a customized plan that the growing team will work together to implement. During the first procedure, which is the only surgical procedure required for the placement of dental implants, a small implant fixture (or fixtures) is embedded into the jaw below the surface of the gums. She or he will likely also introduce a dental nurse to the team who will assist before, during, and after surgery.
Most patients require a minimum of six weeks for the dental implant to fuse with the bone, which then gives the dental implants their tremendous strength. During this time, your dentist may choose to provide you with a healing cuff and/or temporary prosthetic tooth to protect the area and increase your comfort.
Once the implant has fused with the jaw and the tissues have fully healed, you will be directed back to your primary dentist, who will create the prosthetic crown, implant-supported bridge, or denture that will complete the process.
Dental hygienists and technicians
Throughout the process of having dental implants created and placed, you will likely work with a number of dental hygienists and technicians. These integral members of your implant team will play key roles in ensuring a successful outcome at all stages. Dental hygienists will work to prepare you for exams and procedures and will also play a major role in the maintenance stage, ensuring that your dental implants remain clean and healthy over time. They will take X-rays, clean your teeth, do initial exploratory exams, and assist your dentist in myriad ways in the creation of the perfect dental implant system for you.
Dental technicians will play important roles in creating and customizing the dental implant system that your dentist and oral surgeon utilize. While you may not have as much direct contact with these members of your team, they will be hard at work creating pieces and prosthetics designed just for you and your comfort.
Your Team is Here for You
Along the way, remember: your dental implant team is here for you, working to ensure the success of your dental implant system. If you have any questions or concerns as the process continues, just reach out to the appropriate member of your team. Rest assured, they’ll be working together behind the scenes to solve any issues that arise. And with a team of experts like this, you can rest assured knowing that you’re in very good hands.