Is a missing tooth keeping you from feeling confident in your smile? A dental implant may be the answer! You may be familiar with dental bridges to replace missing teeth, called pontics that are connected to crowns or the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth. While a dental bridge may be a good solution for a missing tooth, dental implants are a permanent solution that does not include a removable appliance, which is ideal for many patients.

Dental Implants Explained

Frame Placement

A dental implant requires a surgical procedure to first place a metal frame/post in the mandible or maxilla (lower or upper jawbone), this frame will serve as the new “root” of the missing tooth. Once this frame in place, a period of time must pass for osseointegration to take place, which is the process in which the functional and structural connection occurs between bone that is living and the surface of the implant. Meaning, the frame fuses into your jawbone. This process normally will take 4-6 months for osseointegration to take place and be ready for artificial tooth placement. Aftercare instructions will be provided by the oral surgeon and patients should always follow instructions and consult their oral surgeon if they have any questions or concerns about the surgery. A second surgery may also be required depending on the type of implant you have received, endosteal implants or subperiosteal implants, your oral surgeon will decide which is the right treatment.

Artificial Tooth Placement

Once the frame is fully fused into the jawbone and everything has healed properly, you are ready for artificial tooth placement. A realistic artificial tooth will be custom created for you. This artificial tooth can be removable or fixed. You and your dentist will choose what is right for you.

Questions About Dental Implants?

This is a brief overview of what dental implants are and surely has left you wondering, “Is a dental implant is the right solution for me?” If so, contact us today to set up a consultation: 763.546.1301