How Dental Implant Surgery Works: A Complete Guide

July 11, 2024
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If you’re dealing with missing or damaged teeth, dental implants may be recommended to restore your smile and maintain facial alignment. Dental implants serve as artificial tooth roots, placed on or in the jawbone, where they integrate with the bone over time. Here’s everything you need to know about dental implants and their surgical procedure.

Types of Dental Implants

There are two main types of dental implants:

  1. Endosteal Implants: These are inserted directly into the jawbone to replace missing tooth roots.
  2. Subperiosteal Implants: Placed under the gum tissue but not drilled into the bone, these are used when there’s insufficient healthy bone for traditional implants.

The Dental Implant Process

1. Evaluation:

Before the procedure, your dentist evaluates your jawbone, gums, and overall dental health to determine implant suitability, considering factors like bone density and absence of periodontal disease.

2. Implant Placement:

  • For endosteal implants, the gum is cut to expose the jawbone.
  • Holes are drilled into the bone to place the implant post or root.
  • The incision is closed, sometimes with a temporary denture placed until the permanent tooth is ready.

3. Osseointegration:

Over the next 2 to 6 months, the implant root undergoes osseointegration—fusion with the jawbone—to ensure stability and durability.

4. Abutment Placement:

After osseointegration, an abutment (an extension post) may be attached to the implant to connect the artificial tooth.

5. Attaching the Tooth:

Finally, a custom-made artificial tooth is securely attached to the implant. This can be removable for cleaning or permanently fixed.

Considerations and Duration

Dental implant surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure but involves multiple steps and healing periods. The entire process can take between 3 to 9 months, depending on individual healing and treatment needs.

Are You a Candidate?

Not everyone is suitable for dental implants. Consult a dental professional to assess your eligibility and discuss personalized treatment options.

Schedule Your Consultation

If you’re considering dental implants in Rohnert Park, contact Graton Dental Group for expert guidance and treatment. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile.

**Disclaimer: This content should not be considered medical advice and does not imply a doctor-patient relationship.

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