HEALTHY, CONFIDENT, BEAUTIFUL SMILE

From Start to Finish

If you’re considering your options for replacing a missing tooth, you may be wondering what the step-by-step process for dental implants entails. Getting an implant is not like filling a cavity, where it only takes a quick visit to the dentist, as there are a couple of different steps involved. It typically takes several months but is well worth it and can last a lifetime! We hope the quick guide helps answer any questions you have about the procedure. Here’s the overall process from start to finish.

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Step 1: Consultation

During the initial consultation, we’ll examine your teeth, take X-rays, and check if you have enough bone structure to support the implant. Additionally, we’ll look at your overall health and oral hygiene to determine if a dental implant is the best solution for you.

Step 2: Potential Bone Graft

While this next step is not required for every patient, it’s necessary for those who do not have sufficient bone to support the implant. Bone grafting strengthens the jawbone tissue, creating a solid base for the implant. Depending on the patient, this procedure’s recovery time ranges from a couple of weeks to several months. The bone needs time to integrate and heal properly.

Step 3: Titanium Implant

For a patient who already had adequate bone tissue or those who recovered from a bone graft, the titanium implant is the next step. Your dentist will gently place the implant in the bone socket of the missing tooth, which takes around 1-2 hours. This part of the procedure is pain-free as you will be under anesthesia. Afterward, we allow several months for the jawbone to heal and for the titanium to fuse with the bone. It creates a sturdy base similar to that of the tooth root of natural teeth. Depending on the patient, this healing process can take 5-7 months.

Step 4: Abutment

Once the bone has fully healed, we add an abutment on top of the implant. This piece sticks out of your gums and securely fastens the artificial tooth in place. We then make a mold of your teeth and give you a temporary crown to wear for 4-6 weeks while we complete your permanent crown.

Step 5: Placing the Artificial Tooth

Finally, during a quick visit to the dentist, we place your new artificial tooth on the abutment. It can either be screwed in or cemented to the abutment. Now it’s time to show off your new smile!

We hope this page about the step-by-step process for dental implants helped you out. If you have any further questions or are ready to schedule your initial consultation with us, contact us today! You can call us at (707) 741-6090 or click here to contact us on our website.