Our patients often ask about the dental implant procedure. We fully understand this concern because knowing and understanding the process can alleviate anxiety and help in making an informed decision. That’s why we’ve prepared this brief description to provide you with the essential facts and benefits of dental implants.
The dental implant procedure is a multi-step process designed to replace missing teeth with implants that look and function like natural teeth. Here, we present a concise yet detailed description of the entire procedure to help you understand how implant placement and crown fabrication work. Just like with root canal treatment or bonding, successfully completing the implant procedure to achieve an exceptional, natural result requires the experience, knowledge, and exceptional manual skills of the dental team. At Ars Dentistica, we work exclusively with carefully selected, top dentists in Krakow who believe that dentistry is both a science and an art, and they passionately create naturally beautiful smiles. For us, it’s more than just a job.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
An Ars Dentistica specialist will assess your oral health, examine the condition of your jawbone, and review your medical history. At this stage, we always request X-rays and a 3D CT scan to evaluate the bone structure. The doctor will then develop a fully individualized treatment plan, specifying the number of implants needed and detailing the procedure.
Step 2: Tooth Extraction (if necessary)
If a damaged tooth is still present, it will be removed under local anesthesia. The extraction site needs time to heal, which can take several weeks. In special cases, the implant can be placed immediately after extraction.
Step 3: Bone Grafting (if necessary)
If the bone is not thick enough or is too soft, a bone graft may be necessary to strengthen the bone for the implant. The grafted bone needs time to heal and grow, usually taking several months.
Step 4: Implant Placement
This procedure is performed under local anesthesia. A small incision is made in the gum to expose the bone, and a hole is drilled where the titanium implant will be placed. The gum is then sutured over the implant.
Step 5: Osseointegration
Over the next few months, typically 3 to 6, the implant integrates with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This complex biological and chemical process involves the implant fusing with the bone tissue, creating a solid foundation for the new tooth. Full osseointegration ensures a long-term, successful result. The implant’s surface is specially prepared to initiate this process, and its biocompatibility helps ensure the body does not treat it as a foreign object. At Ars Dentistica, we use only premium-quality, extensively tested implants, achieving the best results with the Osstem system, a world leader in this field. Follow-up visits are recommended during this process to ensure proper healing.
Step 6: Abutment Placement
This procedure is performed under local anesthesia. The gum is reopened to attach the abutment to the implant, which will hold the final crown. After the procedure, the gum tissue around the abutment needs to heal, which takes a few weeks.
Step 7: Crown Design and Placement
An impression of your bite is taken to create a custom-designed all-ceramic crown. At Ars Dentistica, the color and shape of the crown are individually determined with you by the attending doctor. The all-ceramic crown is designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, ensuring a fully natural look and a beautiful smile. Once the crown is prepared by our partnered specialized prosthetic studio, it is attached to the abutment.
Post-Procedure Care and Follow-Up Visits
You will receive instructions on how to care for your implant, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits. Follow-up visits are essential to ensure the proper functioning of the implant and the health of the surrounding gums and bone.
Benefits of Dental Implants
- Durability: Implants are durable and strong.
- Aesthetics: They look and feel like natural teeth.
- Functionality: They restore optimal chewing and speaking abilities.
- Bone Health: They prevent bone loss and maintain the structure of the jaw.
The entire process of dental implant placement can take several months, depending on your individual situation, including the need for bone grafting and the healing rate. Throughout the entire treatment process, our specialists are available for consultations.
Visit Ars Dentistica to find out if an implant is the recommended solution for you! To plan your implant treatment, schedule an appointment by calling +48 532 492 030, or fill out the online registration form.
