Dental implants are a permanent and appealing solution to replace missing or extracted teeth. They are better than other alternatives like bridges because no additional teeth need to be altered to place the new tooth.
The entire implant process is performed over the course of a few months. The first part of the process is to place the implant itself. An incision is made in the gum so that the implant can be inserted. Multiple implants can be placed at once if necessary. After the implants are placed the gums are sutured.
The implant must be allowed about 3-6 months to heal. During this time, your bone will form around the implant in a process called osseointegration. During this healing time, a temporary prosthesis can be worn so that you can eat and speak normally and maintain a proper aesthetic appearance for your smile.
After the implant has healed, it is time to place an abutment on the implant. The abutment serves as the base for your new tooth. One this is placed, an impression of the abutment is made and is used to create your permanent restoration. Some offices have an onsite lab to create the crown, but others will have to send it to an outside lab. Once the restoration is completed you can return to the office to attach the restoration permanently. Your smile will look and feel just like it used to, and the implant it will feel just like one of your own teeth.
