With dental implants, your missing tooth is securely replaced with a titanium post and a dental
crown. Dental implants can also be used to replace multiple missing teeth. A dental implant is
the strongest, most reliable dental restoration you could invest in. With more patients with
missing teeth considering dental implants, it’s time to ask the dentist: how do dental implants
work?
First: The Consultation
Before you can receive a dental implant, you’ll need to have a consultation with your
professional dentist. During this meeting, your dentist will take x-rays to determine the exact
position of your missing tooth as well as examine the bone density of your jaw.
Only people who have adequate bone in their jaw are candidates for dental implants; however,
you may qualify for a bone graft to help build up your jaw bone to receive the implant.
Your dentist will also examine your oral health. Proper oral health and hygiene is essential for
the healing and longevity of a dental implant. People who smoke or have poor oral health may
not qualify for the procedure.
Next: Implanting the Post
If your dentist has found that you’re a candidate for dental implants and has thoroughly
discussed the procedure with you, your next step will be to have the titanium post—the
foundation for your dental implant—inserted by an oral surgeon.
Thanks to digital x-rays, your oral surgeon knows precisely where to place your dental implant
to maximize the chances of success for your restoration. Implanting the post is a surgical
procedure, and it’s important to be sure about dental implants before you take this step. Once
the post is implanted and healed, it’s very difficult if not impossible in certain cases to remove.
Then: Healing Time
The titanium post that constitutes the support for your future dental crown will need to heal
for a period of approximately 4-6 weeks to ensure it’s strong enough to support the dental
crown. Healing time may vary from person to person and will depend on your unique oral
health and immune system.
In the meantime, you may receive a temporary dental crown from your dentist to hold the
place of the future dental crown. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions for healing and
follow up with your dentist as needed.
Last: Getting Your Crown
Your dental crown is specifically made to fit your smile and to match your existing teeth. It’s
sturdy, functional, and with the right care, has the potential to last up to fifteen years. This is
the final restoration to make your dental implant come to life!
The placing of the crown completes your dental implant—you can now enjoy your beautiful
new smile for years to come, with the right care, of course!
If you’re considering dental implants, schedule a consultation with your dentist to first
determine your candidacy. Dental implants are excellent restorations for patients with missing
teeth, so don’t hesitate to discuss your dental implant options with your dentist today!
