Dental implants are a popular way to replace missing teeth because they can restore both the appearance and function of your smile. However, not every patient is ready to receive an implant immediately. Before treatment begins, your dentist will evaluate your oral health, jawbone, gums, and the area where the implant will be placed. Depending on what they find, you may need one or more preliminary procedures to prepare your mouth for successful implant treatment.
The good news? These treatments are often designed to create the healthy foundation your new implant needs.
A Comprehensive Dental Implant Evaluation
Your journey typically begins with a consultation and detailed evaluation. Your dentist may take X-rays or other imaging to assess your jawbone and determine whether there is enough healthy bone to support an implant.
This evaluation can also reveal existing oral health concerns that need to be addressed first. Treating these issues before implant placement can help create a healthier environment for your future restoration.
Tooth Extractions
Sometimes, the tooth being replaced is still present. If it is severely damaged, decayed, or infected and cannot be saved, an extraction may be necessary before an implant can be placed.
An extraction may also be part of a larger treatment plan when multiple damaged teeth need to be removed before implant-supported restorations are provided. Depending on the tooth and its condition, the extraction may be relatively straightforward or require a surgical approach.
Gum Disease Treatment
Healthy gums are an important part of successful implant treatment. If you have gum disease, your dentist may recommend periodontal treatment before moving forward.
Treatment can range from a professional cleaning and improved home care to more involved periodontal therapy, depending on the severity of the disease. Addressing active gum disease first can help establish healthier gum and bone tissue around the future implant.
Bone Grafting
Dental implants need adequate jawbone support. Unfortunately, losing a tooth can eventually lead to bone loss in the area because the bone is no longer being stimulated by a natural tooth root.
If your jawbone does not have sufficient height, width, or density to support an implant, bone grafting may be recommended. This procedure adds bone or bone-like material to the deficient area, allowing it to heal and develop the necessary support for an implant.
Gum Grafting
In some cases, there may not be enough healthy gum tissue around the planned implant site. Gum recession caused by periodontal disease, trauma, or other factors can affect the appearance and support of an implant.
A gum graft can add tissue to the area and create a healthier, more suitable foundation before or during implant treatment.
Sinus Lift
Patients receiving implants in the upper back jaw may occasionally need a sinus lift. When bone has been lost in this area, the sinus cavity may be too close to the jawbone to leave enough room for an implant.
A sinus lift can increase the available bone between the sinus and the implant site, helping create adequate support for placement.
Orthodontic Treatment
Sometimes, the space where a tooth is missing has become too narrow because neighboring teeth have shifted over time. Orthodontic treatment may be recommended to move the teeth and create enough room for an implant.
Not everyone needs preliminary treatment, and your dentist will determine which procedures, if any, are appropriate based on your individual needs.
A carefully prepared foundation can help set the stage for a healthier, more successful implant restoration.
About the Practice
Juniper Dental provides comprehensive dental care in Santa Fe, including dental implants and other restorative and cosmetic treatments. The practice offers in-house implant placement and uses advanced technology to support precise care. Dr. Haiwen Zhang, DMD, leads the practice. He earned his dental degree from the Medical University of South Carolina James B. Edwards College of Dental Medicine and continues his education through organizations including the Pankey Institute and Spear Education.
Call us at (505) 372-1121 or schedule your appointment online.