If you have a broken or missing tooth, dental implants can be an excellent option to replace them. Implants are a permanent solution that looks, feels, and functions like your natural teeth.
A beautiful, complete smile instantly increases your confidence and improves your quality of life. However, the process doesn’t happen overnight, dental implants are a multi-stage process.
In this article, the Boynton Beach dental team at Eriks Dental Group explains the stages of the dental implant procedure.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial teeth, also known as crowns, that are anchored into the jaw with a screw-like post. These titanium posts ensure that the implant won’t move or fall out.
An abutment is connected to the implant to hold the artificial tooth. Finally, a custom-made crown is attached.
Dental implants are a great alternative to dentures and bridges and can help prevent issues such as bone loss, impaired speech, and uncomfortable eating.
Stages Of Dental Implants
The time it takes to complete the dental implant procedure depends on the complexity of your issues. Those who require bone grafting or tooth extraction will have a longer completion timeline. Single-tooth implants without issues will have a shorter procedure timeline.
The following stages help explore the dental implant procedure in more detail.
Consultation And Pre-Planning
First, your dentist will determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure by analyzing your oral and general health during an initial consultation. This step is critical to determine if they can safely and effectively perform implant surgery.
Your dentist will use X-Rays and CT scans to evaluate the condition of your teeth, gums, and jaws. This also lets them know if you need preemptive procedures such as bone grafts or tooth extraction.
During the pre-planning process, everything you need to know about the next stages of the procedure will be explained. This includes cost breakdown, process timeline, what you should expect during each visit, and aftercare routines. The consultation is crucial to ensure that the dental implant process runs smoothly and efficiently.
Dental Implant Surgery
After your initial consultation, your first appointment will be scheduled. When you arrive on the day of your next procedure, you will be given anesthesia to numb the area.
Next, your jawbone will be exposed by an incision in the gum. Once exposed, a small drill is used to make a hole to insert the titanium screw. While it may sound scary, it is a quick and painless process.
Osseointegration
After placing your implant, you will need to wait a few months to allow the jawbone to grow around the implant. This process, called osseointegration, ensures that the post becomes permanently implanted. Because the post is made from titanium, most bodies don’t reject the implant.
Successful osseointegration allows the dental implant to function like a normal tooth. This process usually takes between three and six months. Your dentist will provide all the information you need to make sure this process goes as smoothly as possible.
Abutment Placement
The abutment, also known as a connector, connects the crown to the implant post. During this stage, the dentist will numb the area to make a small incision in the gum. This allows them to gain access to the implant. Then, they will attach the abutment.
Recovery time for this short procedure usually takes around two weeks. It is critical to avoid smoking and hard foods during this time to heal properly.
Tooth Design
Once the second round of osseointegration is complete, it is time to design your tooth. An impression of your teeth and mount will be made and these impressions are used to craft the temporary and permanent tooth. Your dentist will try to match the tooth as closely as possible in color and shape for a natural effect.
Tooth Placement
The final and most exciting stage of the dental implant procedure is the placement of your tooth. As this is the only part of the implant that will be seen, it is critical that it blends seamlessly with your natural smile.
Your dentist will fit the crown into the abutment with cement or screw, depending on the style of the abutment. They will then ensure that you are happy with the fit, feel, and look of the implant.
While the dental implant procedure requires several steps, the results are a beautiful, permanent smile that will last you a lifetime.
After Care
Taking care of your dental implants is easy! One of the main benefits of implants is that you can treat them like your natural teeth. A
s with normal oral care, you should always brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day. Be sure to schedule regular dental checkups with your dentist and contact them immediately if you notice any pain or other issues with your implant.
Practicing proper oral health will keep you smiling for a long time.
Dental Implants In Boynton Beach
You deserve the confidence that comes with a gorgeous, healthy smile. At Eriks Dental Group, we want to make that dream a reality. Dr. Ty Eriks and his expert team proudly serve Boynton Beach residents for all their dental needs.
Dental implants are a great solution for many people suffering from missing or broken teeth. While the process may seem daunting, your quality of life will vastly improve. You deserve to share your beautiful smile with the world and at Eriks Dental Group, our incredible team can make that happen.
While the dental implant procedure isn’t an immediate process, the results can be life-changing. At Eriks Dental Group, we proudly practice strict implant protocols at every stage to ensure only the best results.
If you have any questions about the dental implant stages or any of our other dental services, call us at (561)-733-4004 today!