Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implant surgery is a two step process. The first is to secure the implant into the jaw. Once the dental implant is in place and has fused to the bone, the dentist will attach the cosmetic replica tooth to the implant.  

Dental implants are inserted into the areas in the gum where a tooth is missing. The implant itself is a titanium rod designed to act as a natural tooth root.

To secure the implant in the jaw, dentists must pull back the gum to expose the jawbone. Small incisions are made and the gum flap is lifted carefully to allow the dental surgeon to stitch the gum around the implant once the dental procedure is complete.

After the jawbone is exposed, small holes are made using a dental drill. The titanium implant is inserted into the holes and the gum is closed around the implant using dissolvable stitches. Gradually as the incisions heal the gum tissue grows around the implant and holds it in place. The implant is secured into the jawbone and will fuse to the bone within a couple of months, making the implant feel like a natural tooth root.  

The time taken for the dental implant to fuse to the jawbone is called the osseointegration process.  The osseointegration of the dental implant takes between 3-6 months. Until the fusing process is complete, dentists will not attach the cosmetic replica. Patients can be fitted with a temporary bridge or dentures during this time.  

When the osseointegration process is complete and the jawbone and implant have completely fused together, dentists will attach the replica tooth. Most patients who have dental implant surgery choose a dental crown as the replica tooth as porcelain dental crowns look almost identical to natural teeth. If a lot of teeth are being replaced, dentists may recommend patients are fitted with a dental bridge or dentures instead of crowns as the cost of a full set of dental crown is high.  

The procedure for dental implants will vary slightly depending on the type of dental implant used.

Related guides

• Dental Implant Procedure
• Types of dental implants

Other guides

• Dental Hygiene
• Gum disease
• Childrens' Dentistry
• Common Dental Problems
• Teeth whitening
• Reconstructive dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Dental Crowns
• Cosmetic Dentistry
• Dental Veneers
• Dental Treatment in Mexico

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