Dental implants are used to replace teeth that are missing or damaged beyond repair. Installing dental implants can be a lengthy process requiring several appointments over the course of three to nine months. Let’s look at how dental implants are installed.
How Dental Implants Are Installed
With that said, dental implants are well worth the wait, as they offer a life-long solution and protection from bone loss. To give you a better sense of what you may expect, we have put together a brief guide detailing how dental implants are installed.
This information is general. To learn more about what the process will look like for you, talk to your dentist in Cerritos.
Step 1: The Evaluation
Dental implants are an excellent choice for replacing a natural tooth. That does not mean they are ideal for every individual. In order to help decide what will work best for you, your dentist will need to do a thorough evaluation.
This evaluation will include a visual examination as well as an x-ray. They will allow your dentist to assess the condition of the tooth (if it remains) as well as the bone underneath the tooth. Based on your overall health, age, and the condition of the bone, your dentist will make a recommendation.
If your dentist suggests either a dental bridge or dentures due to existing bone loss, then you can always bring up the possibility of a bone graft. Keep in mind that bone grafts are not always the best option for an individual case, and the surgery would add about three months of healing to the total installation of your dental implant.
Step 2: The Placement of the Post
Assuming you don’t need a bone graft, the next step is placing the post. The post of a dental implant is a metal rod that secures the entire apparatus, and it has to be drilled into the existing jaw bone.
This is why it is so important for the jaw to be healthy. During your procedure, your oral surgeon will cut through the gum and down to the bone. You will be sedated according to your own preference and that of your dentist.
Once your surgeon has gained access to the jawbone, they will drill the post into place. At this point, the abutment, which connects the post to the crown is often placed as well.
Step 3: Healing
Depending on your health, you can expect healing to take 3 to 6 months total. During this time, your jaw will gradually form new bone around the grooves of the post, cementing the structure in place.
You will likely have one if not two visits to the dentist to get molds done and check on your progress. It can feel like a hassle, but this approach ensures that your custom crown is ready and helps to complete the process as quickly as possible.
Step 4: Placing the Crown
The crown is the piece of the dental implant that mimics the appearance of the visible part of your natural teeth. It is usually made of porcelain due to the material’s longevity and natural appearance.
When you are fully healed, your dentist will attach your crown to the abutment. This crown is custom-made to fit your mouth, but your dentist will still want to check for proper fit. At this point, feel free to let your dentist know if anything feels a little off. It might just need an adjustment.
Step 5: Enjoying Your Life
Once you have your dental implants in Cerritos you will be free to enjoy your life as though nothing happened. The stability and support offered by dental implants will allow you to smile and eat as you always have.
Overall, dental implants are well worth the wait.
