Unlike traditional dental implants that take weeks to months to install, today it’s possible to get dental implants in a day or even a few hours. Same-day implants involve consultation, surgery, and a follow-up to fix permanent teeth after the jaw and gums are healed. There is no waiting time, several visits to the dentists in between, and the implantation procedure is completed during a single visit.
One of the key features of same-day dental implants is the planning that takes place before the implant. The procedure uses computer imaging technology to ensure the process is as precise as possible. A 3D model of the jaw is digitally generated after a CT scan. Unlike traditional implants, this digital process ensures the implant is accurately inserted on the jaw bone by experts at Concord Dental Implants. Below we look at several issues revolving around same-day implants. Visit thepointdental for more assissance with all-on-4.
The Traditional Dental Implant Process
The process takes three sessions. The titanium post is first inserted into the jaw bone and this takes several months for healing to take place. An abutment is later added, followed by a crown as the final step. One of the disadvantages is that dentists perform the procedure free hand. Due to human error, sometimes they put the implant in a spot that’s not optimal and this lengthens the healing time. This may not be the case with same-day implants which are meticulously planned.
Pros of Same Day Dental Implants
- The procedure is convenient since you don’t have to keep on coming back. It also saves time since it’s a one-day affair.
- Peace of mind is crucial when it comes to dental care. Just the idea that after one visit you are done with the procedure gives you peace.
- The process has a high success rate. Studies have shown no statistically significant difference between same-day implants and traditional implants.
- It’s easier to curb infections with same-day implants since there’s no point in time where the tooth socket is exposed. Everything is done at a go and sealed with temporary teeth.
- The gum also heals faster compared to the traditional procedure where the same socket has to be revisited for the other two steps.
Cons of Same Day Implants
- Compared to traditional implants, there is a slim but higher chance of failure. Considering the implant is a foreign body being introduced into your body, there’s a likelihood it will be rejected. If you have low immunity, you should consider this aspect before opting for same-day implants.
- There is also a higher post-procedure discomfort considering the process takes a longer period at a go.
- The long procedure can also be distressing especially to most people as the idea of spending several hours on a dentists table is not appealing
What Is The Same Day Implants Procedure Like?
The procedure can take 30 minutes for a single tooth implant with multiple implants taking up to an hour. An All-on-4 full otherwise known as full jaw can take between 2 to 3 hours. However, this depends on the number of teeth being implanted and due to preparation, the procedure may take longer. It’s good to note that after the procedure, the jaw and gums must heal first before crowns are finally implanted.
After the procedure, you use temporary teeth which are replaced by permanent ones after the healing process. The difference however is that you would only go back to have the permanent teeth fixed and not other procedures like in the traditional method. The post-procedure follow-up is mainly meant to have the permanent teeth installed.
Does Everyone Qualify For Same-Day Implants?
Same-day dental implants are not for everyone. There are many factors that you need to consider and these can help determine whether you are a potential candidate or not. The procedure is determined on a case-to-case basis including your dental medical history. The dentist also looks at the extent of the procedure that needs to be done, the number of teeth that are affected and their proximity to each other, and the care required before the procedure. If the tooth being replaced by an implant is infected, for instance, same-day implants may not be applicable.