Dental Implants
Dental implants are a popular and effective long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. They are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth, providing stability and restoring both appearance and oral function. The process involves surgically placing a post into the jawbone, which acts as a sturdy anchor for a custom-made artificial tooth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Natural Appearance & Feel
Implants are custom-designed to blend seamlessly with existing teeth, providing a natural look and comfortable feel.
Improved Chewing & Speech
Because they are anchored securely in the bone, implants restore full chewing ability and eliminate the speech issues that can occur with loose-fitting dentures.
Durability & Longevity
With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a wise long-term investment in oral health.
No Impact on Adjacent Teeth
Unlike bridges, which require altering adjacent healthy teeth for support, implants are a standalone solution that preserves the structure of your remaining natural teeth.
Jawbone Preservation
The implant post stimulates the jawbone just like a natural tooth root, which prevents bone loss and helps maintain the natural facial structure.
Convenience
Implants are maintained with regular brushing and flossing, requiring no special cleaning solutions or messy adhesives.
Procedure Overview
The entire dental implant process typically takes three to nine months on average, as it involves a multi-stage process that allows for proper healing and integration with the jawbone. Here is a general timeline of appointments:
Consultation and Planning (1-2 Visits): Your dentist conducts a thorough examination using X-rays or 3D scans to assess your oral health and bone density. A personalized treatment plan is developed. If preparatory procedures like tooth extractions or bone grafting are needed, these are performed first and require several months of healing before implant placement.
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Implant Placement Surgery (1 appointment, 1-2 hours per implant): The titanium implant post is surgically inserted into your jawbone under local anesthesia.
2
Healing and Osseointegration Period (3-6 Months): The crucial phase where the jawbone fuses with the implant post, creating a stable and permanent foundation.
3
Abutment Placement (1-2 Visits): Once healing is complete, a minor procedure attaches the abutment connector to the implant.
4
Crown Placement (1-2 Visits Over 1-2 Weeks): Scans of your mouth are taken to fabricate a custom crown. The final crown is then permanently attached to the abutment, completing your smile restoration.
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