Missing Teeth? Discover What to Expect from the Dental Implant Process

Dental implants are one of the most advanced, reliable, and stable tooth replacement solutions available. In comparison to other forms of restorative treatment, they not only last longer, but they also provide your mouth with a fully restored tooth, keeping your jawbone strong and stimulated. If you’re preparing to have your missing teeth replaced with this superior form of restorative dentistry, let us walk you through the dental implant process and how long you can expect it take for your implants to heal.

What Are Dental Implants?

Replacing a missing tooth is more than just making sure the visible part of the tooth blends in with your smile. The root should be replaced, too. This is where dental implants differ from other tooth replacement options. Made of titanium, dental implants act as the root of your tooth and are surgically placed in your jawbone. Providing the necessary stability and support for the custom restoration, it also stimulates the bone to prevent deterioration.

Dental implants allow you the ability to chew, eat, and speak clearly without the worry of accidental slippage you can experience with dentures.

What is the Dental Implant Process?

If you’ve yet to sit down with your dentist for an initial consultation, the dental implant process is performed in three stages: planning, healing, and restoration.

THE FIRST STAGE

During the initial consultation (planning stage), you and your dentist will determine the type of implants you’ll receive. It will also be determined how many implants you’ll need, their location, the materials used, if any dental work should be performed prior to implant placement, as well as the estimated cost. Determining all of this during the consultation stage will help your dentist to ensure a successful placement and procedure.

THE SECOND STAGE

When arriving for the second appointment, you’ll receive either local anesthesia or sedation to ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure. Your dentist will make a small incision in your gum line before drilling a small hole in the jawbone. He will then place and properly position the implant to ensure optimal stability. Placing the abutment, which is the piece that connects the implant to the restoration, he will stitch the area and send you home. Over the next several months, you will spend that time healing and allow osseointegration to occur. This is when the implant must properly fuse to the bone in order for the implant to serve as a solid foundation for the custom crown, bridge, or denture.

THE THIRD STAGE

Once you’ve healed and the dentist is satisfied with the healing process, he will place the customized restoration on top of your implant. Whether it is a crown, implant bridge, or an implant-retained denture, you can rest assured that it will blend in beautifully with your smile.

How Long Does It Take to For Implants to Heal?

Just like any other surgical procedure, it will be necessary for you to spend some time relaxing and healing afterward. The average recovery time is one week but understand that depending on your individual needs and situation, it may take longer, especially if you have more than one implant placed.

Choosing dental implants to replace your missing teeth is one of the best decisions (and investments) you can make in your smile. If you’re concerned or have questions about what to expect, the process itself, or any aftercare tips, talk to your dentist. Before you know it, you’ll have a fully restored smile that will last a lifetime.

About the Authors

Dr. Bo Crofoot earned his associate degree at Ricks College before going on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Idaho State University. He then pursued a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at Creighton University. Dr. Thomas Snarr also spent his undergraduate years at Ricks College and Idaho State University before completing his DDS at Creighton Dental School. Highly skilled to deliver outstanding results, both Dr. Crofoot and Dr. Snarr can replace your missing teeth with a superior, restorative treatment known as dental implants. To learn more, contact us at (208) 356-4240.