Missing teeth result in edentulous spaces, which when left untreated for a long time can cause several adverse consequences. It leads to bone resorption and migration of opposite and adjacent teeth into the edentulous space. This greatly compromises your oral health and wellness. Dentists may recommend dental implants if you choose to replace missing teeth.
Oral specialists who offer dental practice in Hailey, are experts in crafting dental implants with utmost ease, and patient compliance. But how exactly do they fabricate dental implants? Let us find out.
| A dental implant is an artificial, screw-like device that is inserted into your jawbone to mimic your tooth roots. They effectively anchor and support permanent dental crowns. They can replace either a single or multiple missing teeth. The device is often made up of titanium alloys that fuse with the bone through osseointegration. |
A comprehensive guide to implant surgery
Implant surgery is a tedious process that requires multiple steps that may take between 5 to 9 months. We bring you a detailed guide to implant surgery through this informative blog.
Initial consultation
- This is the first step when your doctor evaluates your gums and the health of your underlying jawbones.
- X-rays help the dentist assess the thickness of the jawbone to determine if implants are a suitable treatment for you.
- Insufficient bone thickness may require a bone grafting procedure. Here a bone graft is extracted or synthetically used and inserted into the deficient area and allowed to grow naturally.
Implant placement
- Your dentist will administer local anesthesia to cut your gums and raise a flap, to expose the jawbone.
- Tiny holes will be drilled deep into the bone to insert the implant screws.
- The implant will fuse with the bone which may take around 2 to 6 months before new bone grows around the screw.
- A healing cap will be placed to prevent the growth of gums around the implant.
Abutment placement
- An abutment is a metal extender added to the implant. It connects the replacement tooth with the implant.
- The healing cap will be removed and the abutment will be placed.
Placing the artificial tooth
- Once healing is complete your dentist will record oral impressions to fabricate the permanent artificial tooth.
Dental implants are popular alternatives to traditional dentures and bridges. Though implant surgery is a tedious and time-consuming process, it offers several long-term benefits. Discuss your goals and expectations with your dentist to determine if dental implants are the right choice for you.
