When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are among the most sought-after procedures by patients. Implants offer a long-lasting solution with the function and appearance of the natural teeth. Getting dental implants is hardly a quick procedure, as patients will usually need to go through multiple appointments and procedures spanning over several months. If you are thinking of opting for dental implants or have booked your first appointment, this article provides a guide to the procedure.
Dental implants are not an option for everybody since there are procedural requirements. First, patients need adequate and healthy jawbone for successful implant placement. Since dental implants fall under fixed permanent restorations, the dentist may recommend other options for seniors who would probably never require replacements for traditional bridges or dentures throughout their lives.
To be sure the patient is eligible for dental implants, the dentist will perform an evaluation to mark the beginning of the implant procedure. This process is important for the success of the implant process. Health conditions and certain lifestyle habits like smoking and alcohol intake can affect how the bone heals around the implants.
If the jawbone is not enough to support the implant, the dentist may recommend performing a bone graft procedure to augment the bone. This process can allow patients, who would otherwise be ineligible, get dental implants. The bone graft procedure is simple and short, and often involves the transfer of synthetic or natural bone material to the placement site to stimulate jawbone growth. There is usually a waiting period before the placement of implants, which depends on the size of the graft and the patient’s healing rate.
The dentist will place the titanium metal post directly in the jawbone. The procedure typically lasts between one to two hours for single implant placement. Patients may be given specific dietary restrictions for some days after the procedure, but they will be able to eat soon after that. The common practice is to put a temporary dental crown over the head of the implant. Over the following three to six months, the implant will integrate with the jawbone in a process known as osseointegration.
After the jawbone integrates and heals around the implant, patients will return to get the abutment and permanent crown. This is usually the final stage of the dental implant process. The crown placed over the implant looks natural and gets adequate support to function like a real tooth. The dentist will keep track of the patient’s healing journey to ensure everything is in order. Patients will also receive specific instructions on caring for and maintaining the implant restoration.
Getting dental implants is not complicated. The dentist will guide you through the process and answer any question you have during the initial consultation. If you are ready to replace a lost tooth with an implant restoration, contact the dental office to book an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.lunadabaydental.com or call Lunada Bay Dental Practice at (310) 448-1260 for an appointment in our Palos Verdes Estates office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in Palos Verdes Estates, CA.
A dental implant is the gold standard in dental restorations. It can replace an entire tooth structure from the crown to the roots. This tooth replacement can enhance your oral function and health. Here are the details on how a dental implant can improve your quality of life.Research shows that oral structures work together to…
Dentists generally recommend dental implants as a natural choice for replacing missing teeth. If you play sports regularly, especially contact sports, you may be worried about continued participation after having your lost teeth replaced. This article covers what you need to know about playing sports with dental implants.Every sport has required skills, levels of fitness…
If you are missing at least one or more teeth, you may qualify as a candidate for dental implants. Dental implants are the best option for replacing missing teeth. Having missing teeth can harm your oral health, and untreated tooth loss can interrupt your chewing ability and even affect the structure of your mouth. If…
Asking a dentist about the dental implant process, including crown placement, is the only true way to know if it is an effective replacement for your oral condition. Therefore, every patient should feel free to ask their dental professional questions about their recommended procedures or treatment options. Unfortunately, too much information is available nowadays to…
If you are in a new location or just need to find a new "dentist…
Orthodontics refers to a number of different treatment options; however, the two most basic and…
A dental implant is much like a natural tooth that completes the entire dental structure.
A traditional dental bridge can replace up to three or four consecutive teeth on the…
After tooth extraction, patients do not exactly need to be bedridden, but what they want…
A cosmetic dentist can help you achieve your dream smile through numerous treatments, all customized…
