The tooth replacement process and timeline may vary for each patient based upon the specific steps that are needed to complete the restoration. The best way to determine the timeline for treatment is to visit an implant dentist. However, there is a tentative estimation for how long each step might take, which is discussed in this review.
The implant dentistry process generally involves the placement of the implant, osseointegration and healing, and a second procedure to place the dental crown. The following review goes into greater detail about each step for tooth replacement from an implant dentist.
A bone graft may be necessary before the placement of dental implants if the patient has experienced bone loss inside of the jaw due to bone atrophy or periodontal disease. While it is relatively common for this procedure to be required, not all patients require a bone graft for an implant-supported crown. If necessary, it can take up to three months to fully heal after the procedure.
The dental implant placement procedure is a minor surgical procedure that involves placing the implant (or multiple implants) into the jaw above or below where the replacement teeth will be positioned. This is a safe procedure with minimal risks, and the patient should not experience any discomfort during the procedure. However, it can take up to two weeks after the procedure for discomfort and swelling to reside.
Osseointegration must also take place after the placement of the dental implants. Osseointegration refers to the jawbone and the titanium implants fusing together naturally. This can take some time. On average, it takes four to six months for osseointegration to take place after the dental implants are placed.
The second placement procedure is scheduled after osseointegration is complete. At this point, the implants are securely fixed into the jaw. The procedure involves attaching the abutments and the dental prosthesis. The abutments serve as connectors for the implants and replacement teeth. The prosthesis used is either a dental crown, bridge, or denture, depending on how many teeth are replaced and where they are located.
You can care for your new smile with dental implants by visiting the implant dentist every four to six months so that they can check on the health of the implants (as well as oral health in general) and perform routine dental cleaning. Between visits, patients are encouraged to brush regularly and floss and use mouthwash as recommended.
We encourage you to give our implant dentistry team a call or send us a message to start the treatment process to an improved smile and function with implant dentistry. We can help you better understand what the process and timeline may look like for you and address any questions you have during the first visit.
Request an appointment or call Prince William Dental at 703-662-8287 for an appointment in our Gainesville office.
Implant supported dentures are hybrid restorations that combine dental implants with dentures as a solution for missing teeth. Traditional dentures are the most economical way to replace missing teeth, but these devices are prone to shifting in the mouth. This can lead to sores forming inside the cheeks and the dentures falling out when eating…
Dental bridges can be supported by adjacent natural teeth (traditional fixed bridges) or by dental implants (implant dentistry bridges) on each side of the restoration. It is helpful to understand the differences with each option before making a final decision as to which of the two popular teeth replacement solutions is right for you. Implant…
Many dentists recommend implant dentistry to patients seeking teeth replacement because it is safe and has proven results. Implant dentistry also provides a way to fulfill a range of teeth replacement needs, and you can restore your smile after losing a single tooth, a section, or an entire row of teeth with dental implant restorations.The…
Implant dentists are essential in helping patients regain a healthy and functional smile by providing innovative and personalized solutions for missing or damaged teeth. They specialize in the placement and restoration of dental implants. With their experience and techniques, implant dentists offer patients the opportunity to restore oral health and regain confidence in their smile.…
A tooth replacement procedure is vital if you are missing teeth. You will be happy to know that there are multiple options available to restore your smile. If you are missing a few or many teeth but have healthy natural teeth remaining, partial dentures make a lot of sense. This solution can improve your appearance…