Dental implants are an effective way to replace missing teeth. They are a permanent solution that can improve your overall oral health and restore your smile. If you are considering dental implants, it is important to understand the process and what to expect. Here is the dental implant process in detail.
Consultation and Treatment Planning
The first step in the dental implant process is a consultation with a dental implant specialist. During this consultation, the specialist will examine your mouth and take x-rays to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. They will also discuss your treatment options and answer any questions you may have.
Dental Implant Placement
The next step is dental implant placement. This involves surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone. The post acts as a replacement for the tooth root and provides a stable foundation for the new tooth. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and patients may also receive sedation to help them relax.
Osseointegration
After the dental implant is placed, a process called osseointegration begins. This is the process of the jawbone growing around and fusing with the titanium post. It can take several months for osseointegration to be complete, and during this time, the patient will wear a temporary crown or bridge to protect the implant and to allow them to chew and speak normally.
Abutment Placement
Once osseointegration is complete, the patient will return to the dental implant specialist to have an abutment placed. The abutment is a small connector that attaches to the implant post and holds the replacement tooth in place. This is a minor surgical procedure that is performed under local anesthesia.
Crown Placement
The final step in the dental implant process is the placement of the crown or replacement tooth. The replacement tooth is custom-made to match the size, shape, and color of the patient's natural teeth. The dental implant specialist will attach the replacement tooth to the abutment, and the patient will have a fully functional, natural-looking tooth.
Follow-up and Maintenance
After the dental implant process is complete, it is important for patients to maintain good oral hygiene to ensure the longevity of the implant. Regular check-ups with the dental implant specialist are also necessary to ensure the implant is functioning properly.
Dental implants are a good solution for replacing missing teeth. The process involves many steps and may take several months to complete. The end result is a fully functional, natural-looking tooth that can improve your overall oral health and restore your smile. If you are considering dental implants, be sure to consult with a dental implant specialist to determine if you are a good candidate and to discuss your treatment options.
Every time you take a bite of food, you should be grateful for your healthy teeth! A tooth can lose its health and structure quickly once decay sets in. Luckily, if you visit your dentist for regular appointments, the decay should not get too serious before your dentist notices it and can do something about it. That "something" is applying a filling. On the other hand, if the decay progresses too long before it is caught, you may need a crown or even an extraction.
We want to keep our teeth, and we know you want to keep yours. That's why we created this website to teach you more about dentists and dental care. Enjoy!