Dental implants are also known as tooth replacements. They’re a cutting-edge procedure that involves the placement of an artificial tooth root in the jaw and can be done in a day, or it could last for months, depending on a person’s case. One thing’s for sure; it would take an extended period to boast about a complete smile. The following guide curated by Campbell Dental Implants Center aims at helping you estimate the amount of time you’d expect at each phase of a dental implant procedure.
Dental Consultation
Before anything else, you’ll have to first get a consultation from your dentist. It is important to do the consultation with a reputable professional such as the top Dentist in west point. This step is necessary so you can figure out if dental implants are right for you. You’d discuss the condition(s) with your dentist for which you need dental implants, the number of missing teeth, and where they’re missing as they examine your dentition. Your dentist will also check if any underlying conditions might complicate a dental implant procedure, like bone loss, even though this does not necessarily mean that the procedure will be canceled. While the consultation period usually takes about an hour, you can call and inquire with your dentist about how much time you need to set aside for the appointment.
Pre-Dental Implant Procedure Exam
When you are ready to meet with your dentist, they will ask you to undergo a pre-procedure consultation called a Diagnostic Checkup. This is an optional step that can be done at home before coming into the office for the actual procedure. The exam is likely to take about an hour and involves pulling back and inspecting your gums, teeth, tongue, and jawbone for signs of bone loss.
Dental Implant Placement
The placement of a dental implant involves making a small hole in your jawbone by drilling with a specialized tool and installing the titanium screw that would act as support for the crown. In this process, the dentist uses X-rays to ensure that the screw is positioned correctly, and it could be as short as an hour, depending on the type of technique the doctor chooses. Local anesthesia can also be used to enable you to be comfortable throughout the implant.
Bone Fusing
Bone fusing is an osseointegration process that’s essential to achieve a long-lasting connection between your jawbone and your implant’s screw. It can take between three to six months. During this period, you may be required to only eat soft foods for the first few weeks to allow the bone to heal around the implant.
Placing the Abutment
Your dentist will attach the crown to the implant’s abutment. The abutment is essentially a short piece of titanium that connects your dental implant to the crown and is the only visible part of the artificial system. Depending on your dentist’s opinion, you may be fitted with the abutment during the implant placement or wait up to six months for your jawbone around the implant to heal. You can be fitted with a temporary crown as the dentist customizes a personal and permanent one for you which takes up to six weeks.
Attaching the Crown
This is the most exciting step of the procedure for all patients as it involves your permanent crown being secured onto the abutment. The procedure can take about an hour, after which the dentist would check your bite and teeth appearance to prevent future misalignment issues. Once the crown is attached to your implants, the procedure is considered complete.
So, How Long Would It Take?
Depending on your dental characteristics, implant technique used, and any irregularities found during the checkup exam, the dental implant procedure can take from three to nine months to complete. You would also be required to make periodic follow-ups with your dentist to the proper functioning of your implants.
Is the Procedure Worth the Patience?
The procedure has its rewards and costs, just as long as accuracy is maintained. If you’re not willing to bear with the time requirements for your implants, it’s better to opt out and find other options. If you decide to go ahead with the procedure, however, your life would be transformed by having a permanent solution to missing teeth. In addition, you could experience improved oral health if that dental implant procedure exam detects any defects such as bone loss.
Protect Your Smile Today
While it may seem like a significant time commitment, it’s actually worth the wait. To protect your smile today, you can visit Campbell Dental Implants Center and get the transformation you require.