Teeth in a Day—Myth or Reality? How the Dental Implant Process Works
You might’ve heard or seen some TV commercials promising viewers new teeth in one day.
Is it too good to be true?
The good news is that it’s not a myth. But the reality is that there is a lot of planning, as well as several visits, that go into preparing for that special “day.”
The “teeth in a day” cases usually refer to full arch dental implant restorations, in which all diseased teeth are removed, implants placed, and a temporary version of your teeth are placed—all in a single visit.
Several months later, after healing has occurred, the permanent teeth will be placed. This type of “dental makeover” can be a life-altering experience for patients who have previously had a lifetime of dental difficulty.
While most patients may not require removal of all their teeth, for those who do it is a tremendous service to be able to receive this type of treatment.
More commonly, patients may require replacement of a single front tooth. Single-visit implant placement that can be completed in one day is often an option that your dentist can discuss with you.
If you have missing teeth, deteriorating teeth, or have long-term dental issues, dental implants may be for you. Your next step is to schedule an appointment with a dental professional. It is important that you choose a dental implant expert, not just any dental practitioner.
Your health matters
When you meet with your implant dentist, you’ll undergo a complete dental exam (including X-rays and molds, or digital scans of your mouth). They will assess your individual situation and evaluate your teeth, gums, and bone structure prior to formulating a treatment plan. A 3-D X-ray will also be taken to help further evaluate your available bone.
After your implant treatment is completed, it’s especially important to maintain excellent oral hygiene and schedule regular dental visits. That way, you can make sure your dental implants last a lifetime.
When, and why, it can take longer than a day
Dental implant treatment involves both a surgical and restorative phase. In order for the dental implants to be successful, it requires the bone to heal around the implant.
It may also be necessary to prepare the site to accept a dental implant, which may require a few procedures.
After adequate healing has occurred, the restorative phase may begin. Depending upon the complexity of the case, this may be one to six months, or longer.
However, as noted before, there are cases when significant work is needed that the majority of the treatment is completed in a single surgical visit. These are the cases where all affected teeth are removed and an immediate temporary provided at the same time.
What to expect during surgery
Every patient is different and surgical protocols are custom-tailored to your specific needs.
For those patients undergoing the full arch “teeth in a day” procedures, you can expect to have all diseased teeth removed and leave the office with a temporary version of your new teeth that same day, and to return at a later date for placement of the final versions.
In a typical surgery, bad teeth (if present) are removed with the aid of a local anesthetic, bone grafts are placed as required, and the jawbone is prepared to accept the placement of your dental implant. Then the necessary amount of time is allowed for your implant to integrate, or fuse, to your jawbone.
Once healed, dentist will take molds or optical scans of your mouth to custom-make your artificial teeth. In a few short visits, you will enjoy the benefits and comfort of your new teeth.
Enjoying your new smile
Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. Compared to dentures, it’s much easier to eat, smile, and talk with dental implants. You won’t have to worry about “clicking noises” or feel anxious about what food is “safe” to eat. You can stop feeling embarrassed by your smile and start living the way you want to.