A Step by Step Guide to Dental Implants

Dental implants are the gold standard in tooth replacement and is the best single tooth replacement therapy we can recommend.  This is because they function and look just like a real tooth. They also maintain the highest level of patient satisfaction once complete.

To gain a better understanding of what they are and to determine whether or not they may be a good option for you, let’s take a look at this step-by-step guide to dental implants. 

What are Dental Implants? 

Dental implants are separated into three components. Thai implant, the abutment, and the crown. The implant or post is anchored into the bone and is commonly made of special titanium. Consider this as an artificial root that will fuse with the jaw bone for strength and stability. This fusion process is called osseointegration and can take a couple of months, varying person to person. Your dentist will need to make sure that the post and the bone are completely fused together before the patient can chew on the implant.  

The next step is to add an abutment to the implant to secure the new tooth in place. This artificial tooth is a dental crown completely customized to match the color and contouring of the other teeth so that it blends in beautifully. 

This crown is attached to the abutment that is held securely by the implant. And that is the general overview of how the dental implant process works. 

Additional Steps for Dental Implants

Sometimes there are additional steps that need to take place before the dental implant process can get started. This can add additional time to the already lengthy implant process. The good news is that even though it may take a little bit, the final product will still be well worth the wait. 

So, what are these additional procedures? 

Bone density is crucial in securing dental implants. Your dentist will determine whether or not you have sufficient bone density - or if bone grafting needs to take place. Remember, the implant must have enough bone to latch onto for a secure finish. If there is not enough, bone grafting will be done to boost the density. This procedure will take a few months to fully heal and be ready to handle the implantation. 

Another potential procedure that may need to be done prior to getting dental implants is a tooth extraction. In instances where you have a broken tooth or a decayed tooth that cannot be saved, the course of treatment you have decided on may be to extract the tooth and replace it with an implant. 

Once the tooth is extracted, you will need to allow time for the area to heal before proceeding with the dental implant. 

It is important to be patient with dental implants. They are a wonderful boost to your oral health, but they do take time - especially if any of these extra procedures are necessary. 

Dental Implants at Queen’s Crown Dental

If you are looking for a more permanent solution to replace missing teeth, then Queen’s Crown Dental has the best option for you - dental implants. 
To learn more or find out if you are a good candidate for dental implants, contact us today at 808-526-2800. Or, book an appointment online.