How long does a dental implant procedure take?
If you are missing one or more teeth, you may be considering dental implants as a long-term solution for restoring your smile. Dental implants are a popular and effective option for replacing missing teeth, but many patients wonder how long the procedure will take. In this blog post, we will discuss the dental implant procedure and how long it typically takes to complete.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small, titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root. Once the implant has fused with the jawbone, a dental crown or bridge can be attached to the implant to restore the missing tooth or teeth.
The Dental Implant Procedure:
The dental implant procedure typically involves several steps:
Initial Consultation: Your teeth specialist in California at Cunning Dental Group will perform a thorough examination of your teeth and gums and take x-rays and other imaging tests to assess your oral health and determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants.
Implant Placement: During the implant placement procedure, your dentist will make a small incision in your gums to expose the jawbone. The implant will be placed into the jawbone, and the gums will be stitched closed.
Healing and Fusion: The healing process can take several months, as the implant fuses with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. During this time, a temporary restoration may be placed over the implant to protect it and help maintain your smile.
Abutment Placement: Once the implant has fused with the jawbone, a small connector called an abutment will be attached to the implant. The abutment will protrude above the gum line and will serve as the attachment point for the dental crown or bridge.
Final Restoration: Once the abutment is in place, a dental crown or bridge will be attached to the implant to restore the missing tooth or teeth.
How Long Does the Dental Implant Procedure Take?
The dental implant procedure can take several months to complete, depending on the individual patient and their unique oral health needs. The implant placement procedure itself usually takes about an hour to complete, but the healing process can take several months. The length of the healing process can vary depending on factors such as the patient’s age, overall health, and the location of the implant in the mouth.
After the implant has fused with the jawbone and the abutment has been placed, the final restoration can usually be completed in a few weeks. This will involve taking impressions of your teeth and gums and custom-fabricating the dental crown or bridge to fit perfectly over the abutment.
In general, the dental implant procedure is a longer process than other tooth replacement options such as dentures or bridges. However, dental implants offer various benefits over these other options, such as improved stability and function, a more natural-looking appearance, and the ability to prevent further bone loss in the jaw.
If you are interested in dental implants to fix your teeth or for screw-in teeth replacement, please contact your Cunning Dental Group teeth specialists in California for a consultation. Our team of dental professionals at Cunning Dental Group can help you determine if dental implants are right for you and answer any questions you may have about the procedure. Contact us today at (855) 328-6646 to schedule an appointment.