Full-mouth dental implants change how patients have their smiles restored after losing multiple teeth. The comprehensive procedure is cosmetic and facilitates fully functional restoration of your mouth. If you contemplate such a transformative solution, here’s what happens during the full mouth implant procedure for a new smile.
The Consultation and Preparation Phase:
If you’re planning to get full-mouth dental implants in Mission Viejo, it’s essential to work with an experienced dental practice specializing in advanced implant techniques. These specialists will carefully evaluate your oral health and discuss how the implants will be placed for maximum stability and longevity.
What Happens During the Surgery?
Full-mouth dental implant surgery, which typically consists of several procedures and intricate techniques, is meant to endure. Here’s what you should expect in full-mouth dental implant surgery:
- Sedation and Anesthesia
Because the surgery can be long, your oral surgeon would use sedation or general anesthesia to keep you comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. With modern techniques, you should suffer minimal pain or discomfort during the process and remain relaxed throughout the procedure.
- Tooth Extractions (if necessary)
If you have any remaining teeth that are beyond repair or cannot be salvaged, they will be removed. Do not worry- this is done with the utmost care, preserving as much of your natural bone structure as possible, essential for successful implant placement.
- Placing the Implants
The real magic happens when the implants made of titanium are sunk into your jawbone. These act as “roots” for your new teeth. For a full-mouth implant, 4 to 8 in each arch to securely place the prosthetic inside your mouth. This placement is very strategic, as it will ensure your new smile feels healthy and strong.
- Bone Grafting (if necessary)
If the jawbone is too thin in density to securely attach the dental implants, then bone grafting might be required. This procedure adds material to your bone to build a firm foundation for the implants to integrate. This success is related to the permanent and strong dental restoration that will take place.
- Attaching Temporal Teeth
Once the implants are placed, you will not leave the office toothless. Instead, temporary prosthetic teeth will be attached to you so you can have a functional and attractive smile while the implants heal and fuse with your bone during the normal period of osseointegration, usually several months.
The Recovery Process and Post-Surgery Care
Swelling, some minor bleeding, and soreness are normal reactions to most patients’ surgeries in the first few days following surgery. Your oral surgeon can provide very specific aftercare instructions, including prescribed medications and tips for managing discomfort.
In the recovery phase, soft food dieting will be required to avoid stressing the implants, as will excellent oral hygiene and prompt adherence to the surgeon’s instructions for proper healing.
After 3-6 months, once your implants are tightly integrated into the bone, you will be brought in for the attachment of your custom permanent teeth. These prosthetic teeth are designed to look indistinguishable from natural teeth and can perform the same functions as natural teeth, presenting a beautiful and durable smile that can last an entire lifetime.
You’ll have a detailed consultation before you undergo full-mouth dental implant surgery at the top-rated oral surgery center. This will include all of your X-rays, CT scans, and even digital impressions that can assist in developing a treatment plan specially created for you. The oral surgeon will then check to see if any preparatory procedures, such as bone grafting or extractions, may be required to ensure the success of the implants.