If you’ve lost a tooth due to injury, periodontal disease or dental decay ask a dental health professional about replacing your missing tooth with a dental implant. Although other types of false teeth exist, a dental implant is the most popular option for the following reasons:
- A dental implant functions like a natural tooth
- A dental implant resembles a natural tooth
- According to the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, if a patient properly cares for a dental implant, it can stay in good condition for at least 10 years (and often much longer)
The specific details of the dental implant procedure may vary somewhat from patient to patient. A professional can answer any questions you may have about this treatment option and what the procedure will involve for you. In the meantime, this guide can provide you with a general idea of what dental implant treatment consists of.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a titanium screw that is implanted into a patient’s jawbone, where it will gradually fuse with the bone and becomes a very stable and strong anchor to hold a crown that looks like a natural tooth.
Steps the dental implant procedure involves include:
Consultation
Not all patients are candidates for dental implants. For example, a patient’s jawbone might not be sufficiently wide or tall to support an implant. Sometimes medical conditions or medications can be a reason to evaluate other treatment alternatives.
The initial consultation is an opportunity for you to learn more about this treatment option in greater detail.
Preparation
The process of receiving a dental implant varies depending on several factors. If, for instance, a patient does not have enough jawbone to support an implant, they might need a bone graft, a process that involves widening the jawbone by adding additional bone tissue to it.
Such steps are not always necessary. After a consultation and examination, a dental health professional can explain whether you will need to undergo any such preparatory treatments before they can begin installing your implant.
Implant Placement
The next step of the process involves placing the titanium post into the jawbone – a routine and small surgical procedure. You will then need to wait for the implant to fuse with your jawbone, which takes between two and six months.
Abutment Placement
An abutment is a component of the implant that connects the titanium post with the crown or restoration. A dental professional will place an abutment once the implant has fused with your jawbone.
Restoration Placement
Throughout the dental implant treatment process, a dental laboratory will fabricate an implant restoration that matches the look of your surrounding teeth. Placing the restoration completes the treatment process.
Follow-Up Appointments
It is important to have regular follow up and cleaning appointments to maintain your dental implant.
The purpose of these appointments is to keep the implant clean and to recognize potential treatment needs early. By caring for your implant and coordinating with your periodontist or primary care dentist, you can replace a lost tooth with a convincing false tooth that stays in great condition for a decade or longer.
Learn More About Dental Implants in Belmont, MA
At Schrott Perio Implants, in Belmont, MA, we’re happy to discuss whether dental implant treatment may be the right option for you. Contact us online or call us at (617) 484-9240 to request an appointment.