What is the Dental Implant Procedure?

What is the Dental Implant Procedure?

If you are considering dental implants it is important to understand the steps involved and that the process for placing a dental implant can take several months to complete. To help you better understand what this process is like and what you can expect throughout, please refer to the following.

Initial Examination

Prior to beginning the dental implant process, you will need to schedule an appointment for a free consultation to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. During this appointment, we will also provide a thorough examination to determine the underlying reason why a dental implant is necessary and whether any preparatory procedures need to be performed before beginning the dental implant process. Possible preparatory procedures include treating gum disease, tooth extraction, or a bone graft. Diagnostic tests will be taken to determine whether a bone graft is necessary.

Dental Implant Placement

The dental implant procedure begins with administration of a local anesthetic and often dental sedation. Once you are sufficiently numbed, your gums are pulled back around the missing tooth and a small hole is drilled into your jawbone, into which the titanium posts are placed. Once properly positioned, this post will then act as the root for your replacement tooth. Once the dental implant has been placed in the jawbone, the process of osseointegration will begin. Osseointegration is the direct functional and structural connection between the surface of the implant and your living bone, which will take place over several months. The time it takes for osseointegration to complete will vary depending on your body’s natural healing process.

Placement of the Crown

Once your bone has fused to the implant and is providing sufficient stability, it will be time to attach the abutment and finally the crown. Once your crown has been tested to ensure the bite is correct, you can begin to treat your new dental implant just like the rest of your natural teeth.

Maintaining the Health of Your Dental Implant

To preserve the integrity of your implant and reduce your risk of developing oral health issues, it is important to practice proper oral maintenance daily. One of the most important things you can to maintain the health of your implant is to brush and floss twice daily.

In addition to following these self-care practices, we also strongly encourage our patients to schedule ongoing maintenance at least every six months or with greater regularity. During these examinations, we will provide a professional cleaning and monitor the overall health of your implant, making any adjustments if necessary and ensuring there are no other underlying issues. Although there may not be anything noticeably wrong with your implant, there are times when it is necessary to take x-rays to ensure that your implants, attachments, and abutments are placed correctly and to identify and address issues that might otherwise go overlooked.

Contact Us Today

At Coastal Jaw Surgery, we are committed to providing you with quality dental care and making your experience as smooth as possible. To schedule a free consultation for dental implants, or to learn more about our clinic and services, contact us today at (800) NEW-LOOK or fill out an online form.

We look forward to improving your oral health, aesthetic appearance of your smile, and overall quality of life!

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