If you are looking for ways to replace your missing teeth, you have multiple options to choose from. However, if dental implants are what you prefer for a permanent, longer-lasting smile, you’ll want to discuss the process with your implant dentist in Marietta, OH. Well worth the financial investment, you should also understand it can be a timely procedure. Before making your decision, read on to learn more about the full dental implant placement process and what you can expect.
Initial Consultation
The first step to undergoing dental implant placement is to have a thorough examination by your general dentist. Once they review your teeth, jawbone density, and gum health, they will determine if you are an eligible candidate for treatment.
It is possible that you may be required to undergo bone grafting if this area of your mouth is not strong enough to support your implants. If so, this will require additional recovery time before moving forward with your permanent restorations; however, it is necessary to ensure a solid and durable foundation.
Dental Implant Surgery
Once you arrive for your dental implant surgery, your oral surgeon will begin by using a CT/Cone Beam Scanner to review your oral and facial structures. This will allow them to generate a personalized treatment plan that ensures a smoother surgical procedure. After planning for the placement of each implant, they will administer anesthesia to ensure you remain completely comfortable and relaxed throughout the entire process.
Depending on the number of implants you need to have placed, they will make one or more small incisions in your gum tissue before exposing the bone and carefully placing each post into its appropriate location. Verifying it is positioned correctly, they will close the tissue around the implant and send you home to recover.
Recovery at Home
While each patient is different, and the number of implants placed can shorten or extend the recovery time at home, it is typical for a normal healing period to be anywhere from 4-6 months. This allows for osseointegration to occur, which is the process of the implants fusing with the jawbone and surrounding tissues.
During this time, your implant dentist will provide you with instructions to follow to ensure your recovery is swift and successful. This may mean eating softer foods in the days following your procedure as well as avoiding smoking or using tobacco products, as these can make healing more difficult.
Placement of Final Restoration
Once you are fully healed and osseointegration is complete, you will return to have a minor surgical procedure that includes placing a healing cap over the top of your implant. This allows for your final restoration to secure to your implant and remain firmly in place.
No matter if you receive an implant crown, bridge, or denture, your dentist will make sure the prosthetic looks and acts just like a regular tooth, giving you the healthier, more beautiful appearance you deserve.
The process of receiving dental implants does require much patience, but when you consider the alternative of a less permanent and more high-maintenance restorative option like dentures or a fixed bridge, there’s no doubt that dental implants are worth your time and money.
About the Author
Interested in replacing your missing teeth with dental implants? Dr. Jeff Lee and his team at Muskingum Valley Oral Surgery are ready to help you smile for years to come. Equipped with the advanced technology to make your new smile a reality, they will walk you through the entire process to ensure you remain happy with your progress and ultimately, your brand-new smile. If you are interested in learning more about dental implants, contact us at (740) 432-8768.