If you’ve lost a tooth due to injury, decay, or gum disease, dental implants can offer a strong and natural-looking replacement. Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants are permanent
solutions that look, feel, and function like your own teeth. So, what is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it acts
as a root for the missing tooth. Once the implant is securely in place and the bone has healed
around it (a process called osseointegration), a crown (artificial tooth) is attached to the top.
Typically, the osseointegration process takes about three months before the final tooth gets put
in.
Benefits of Dental Implants
- Natural appearance and feel
- Improved speech and comfort
- Durability – with proper care, implants can last a lifetime
- Preserves bone and facial structure
- No need to alter nearby healthy teeth
Are You a Candidate?
Most healthy adults are candidates for dental implants, but you’ll need enough jawbone to
support the post. Occasionally, your jawbone can be deficient. In these situations, an additional
step to rebuild this bone would be indicated prior to implant placement. If you’re a smoker, have
uncontrolled diabetes, or certain medical conditions, your dentist may recommend additional
steps to ensure implant success. It is rare for someone to not be a candidate for dental
implants.
Delayed or immediate approach
There are two main approaches to placing implants; either delayed or immediate. Depending on
your specific situation, our doctors will discuss the best approach and help you understand your
options.
Immediate Dental Implants
This is when a tooth is removed and the dental implant is placed within the same
appointment. This approach reduces treatment time and can help preserve the
natural shape of your gums and jawbone. Total treatment time is usually 3-4 months.
Benefits:
- Fewer surgical appointments
- Faster overall treatment time
- Potential for better aesthetic results
Considerations:
- Not suitable for all patients
- Requires good bone quality and quantity
- Higher risk of complications
Delayed Dental Implants
With this method, the implant is placed a few months after the tooth has been
removed. This allows the bone in the extraction area to completely heal before an
implant is placed. Most commonly, the delayed route is taken when bone volume is
insufficient or a large infection is present. Total treatment time is usually 4-6 months.
Benefits:
- More predictable healing
- Suitable for complex cases or after infections
- Better bone regeneration for larger areas
Considerations:
- Longer overall treatment time
- 2-3 surgical appointments
Timeline to Final Crown
Once implants are placed, it typically takes a few months before you are able to get it restored
with a final implant crown by your general dentist. Our doctors see patients around the 3 month
mark to take an x-ray and confirm integration (complete healing) before providing clearance to
get the final restoration.
Dental implants are a safe, reliable, long-term solution that can restore confidence, esthetics,
and function. Compared to current alternatives, it is the optimal treatment for missing teeth. If
you’re considering implants, give our office a call and schedule a consultation with one of our
doctors to learn if they’re the right option for you.
