Dental Implants Specialist

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are one of the most popular options to consider when replacing missing teeth. The implants are metal posts that sit permanently in your jawbone and can hold various types of restorations, including individual crowns, bridges, and sets of dentures. 

Like many other medical devices that permanently remain in your body, including artificial joints, dental implants are made of durable surgical titanium. 

Titanium safely bonds with the bone within your jaw during a complex process called osseointegration. This bond allows the implant to remain in your jawbone with no chance of falling out or coming loose. 

How long does it take to get a dental implant?

Getting a dental implant requires a lengthy process with several separate appointments at American Dental Clinic, but many prospective implant patients find the long process to be worth the time. After meticulous planning with digital 3D imaging, you’ll come in for your first surgical procedure. 

Your dentist creates an incision in your gums in the gap where your new tooth will go. They find the jawbone within the incision and place the titanium implant post in the bone. Before this step, you may need a bone augmentation surgery to add mass to the bone if some of it has resorbed. 

Once the implant is in place, it takes a couple of months on average for your bone to osseointegrate with it. For this part of the process, the team places a temporary crown over the implant so you can chew, speak, and smile confidently. 

After the healing period, you’ll have a second surgery at American Dental Clinic. Your dentist affixes an attachment piece called an abutment to the implant after reopening the original incision. They take an impression of the abutment so they can create your restoration to fit over it. 

What advantages do dental implants offer?

Dental implants are the preferred tooth replacement choice for many dental patients missing one or more teeth. While weighing your options, you should consider the benefits that dental implants can offer:

• A natural appearance
• No dietary restrictions
• Stability and durability
• Easy cleaning and care
• Comfort
• No reliance on other teeth for support

Once you’ve healed from dental implant surgery and your crown is in place, you won’t have to relearn or restructure your oral hygiene and health care routine. You should continue visiting American Dental Clinic for regular exams and professional cleanings.

If you’re missing one or more teeth and dental implants appeal to you, call American Dental Clinic or book a consultation online today.