Missing teeth go beyond cosmetic concerns. They can affect one’s ability to eat, drink, and even breathe. Because dental implants attach directly to the jawbone, it is the most permanent option. An oral and maxillofacial surgeon performs this procedure to replace any missing teeth.

Implant surgery replaces the roots with titanium posts that are screw-like and missing or damaged teeth with artificial ones that look and feel just like real teeth. Implant surgery is a great alternative to dentures and bridgework that don’t fit well. It can also be an option when natural roots aren’t available for building dentures or replacements.

Let’s Start With The Basics.

The type of dental implant required, and your jawbone condition will determine how the procedure is done. Implants provide solid support for your teeth and are a great option. This requires that the bone heals around the implant. This healing process takes time, up to several months. There may also be multiple procedures involved in dental implant surgery.

Patients often assume that surgery for dental implants will be difficult. However, this is not the case. The procedure is usually less painful and takes much less time than other types of dental work. Most patients find that over-the-counter painkillers are sufficient to manage their pain after surgery. Many patients can go back to work the following day.

How To Know If Dental Implants Are The Right Choice.

Implants are surgically placed into your jawbone to serve as roots for missing teeth. Implants won’t cause bone damage or slippage because the titanium used in them fuses with your jawbone. The materials won’t cause decay, unlike regular bridgework. Some of the qualifications required for this elective procedure are:

There are one or more teeth missing.
The patient is willing to dedicate several months to the project.
There is enough bone to support the implants, otherwise, a bone transplant is also required.
There is enough healthy tissue in the affected area to perform the procedure.
The jawbone has reached its full growth potential.
There are no health conditions that could affect bone healing
The patient is unable to or prefers not to wear dentures

What Dental Implants Are Comprised Of.

There are three basic elements that make up a complete dental implant. First, there is a titanium post that is fused to the jawbone by a process known as osseointegration. Then there is the abutment which refers to the portion of an implant that rises above a gum line. Finally, a crown is placed on top of this abutment giving it the appearance of a natural tooth.

What To Expect During The Procedure.

If you are healthy and your dentist feels you are a good candidate, the procedure will be scheduled at his or her office under local anesthesia. Depending on your specific dental needs and the extent of the surgery required, the procedure might need to be done at a hospital.

There are four basic steps that make up this surgical procedure.

Tooth extraction: Any damaged teeth including the roots are removed.
Installation of the implant: You will first need to undergo surgery to place the implant in your jaw. Next, the implant is covered with gum tissue. Then, it is allowed to integrate into your jawbone for up to three to six months.
Attaching the post: The dentist will attach a post to the implant, and then the gum tissue will grow around it. Sometimes, the post and implant are both placed at once. The combination implant and the post serve as anchors for the replacement tooth, regardless of whether they are placed simultaneously.
Placing the Crown: A crown is fixed to the implant post by your dentist.

Dallas-fort Worth Metro Residents Can Rely On Our Team For Complete Dental Work.

At CR Dental Group you will receive optimal care from both Dr. Jordana Contrucci Ruiz and Dr. James Reisman and their dedicated staff. One-on-one attention and detail-oriented dental care are our highest priority. We offer complete comprehensive cosmetic, implant, and reconstructive dentistry in Dallas, Texas. To schedule an appointment, click here or give us a call at (972) 566-4990.