The Dental Implant Process

Dental implants are truly remarkable, looking and functioning just like natural teeth. It is important to be aware, however, that getting dental implants is a process that doesn't happen overnight. Here is an overview of what you can expect.

The Implant Surgery

Once your doctor has determined that you have enough bone to hold the implant firmly in place, he will insert the dental implant into your jaw bone. You will be numbed and, if desired, sedated for this procedure. During surgery, your dentist will make a hole in your jaw bone and place the dental implant inside the hole so that the edge of the implant sits flush with your jaw bone. The gums over the implant are then stitched back together and allowed to heal for several weeks.

Abutment Placement

After you heal and your doctor verifies that your implant has fused to your jaw bone, he will again numb or sedate you to expose the end of your implant. Once the implant is exposed, the doctor will place an abutment at the end of the implant. This abutment is the place where your implant and replacement tooth will meet. The dentist will again place stitches in your mouth to hold the abutment in place and allow your gum tissue to heel around it, creating a collar. You may be able to see your abutment after this surgery.

The Tooth Replacement

After giving your mouth and gums another few weeks of healing time, the dentist will take an impression of your mouth and your abutment. He will use this to make you a new tooth and then simply screw or cement it onto your abutment for a permanent replacement.