Dental implants replace missing teeth and help with chewing, speaking, and smiling. They can consist of titanium or a combination of titanium and ceramic materials. Dental implants serve as anchors for artificial replacements: full dentures, partial dentures, dental crowns, and bridges. If you are considering dental implants, this guide will help you know what to expect during the lengthy process.

What to expect during the dental implant process

It is important to know that receiving a dental implant will take several months since it is a multi-step process. Depending on their specific case, some patients may require more stages than others.

Enhancement Options

Some patients may require a procedure to improve the dental implant's ability to remain in place. These procedures can include a bone graft, sinus augmentation, or ridge augmentation.

Bone grafts increase the amount of bone around the dental implant posts. There are five types of bone grafts, but the most common our dentist will use is called an alloplastic graft. In this type of bone graft, the dentist will use a synthetic material that simulates bone and pack it into the area of the mouth where it is needed.

A sinus augmentation can increase the height of one's sinus cavity, which helps prevent bone loss around the implant. Alternatively, ridge augmentations increase the height of one's gums and ridge where the dental implants set so there is enough room for them without causing damage to surrounding parts of the mouth.

Placing the Dental Implant

The dentist will place the dental implants through a surgical procedure. This means the patient will receive either general or local anesthesia before the procedure begins. Next, the dentist will use a surgical drill, hammer, or saw to place the implant into the patient's jawbone. Once the dental implant is set, it will stay in place while the patient's body allows it to fuse. To ensure the patient does not feel sensitivity, during healing, the dentist will place a temporary crown around the dental implant.

Healing Time

After the dental implant placement, patients must wait for it to fuse with their jawbones. This process can take up to three months, but it is important for the body to do its work and heal properly before moving on to the next stage. During this time, we recommend the following tips:

  • Avoid chewing hard, chewy, or tough foods that require a lot of pressure on the teeth.
  • Do not smoke or consume other tobacco products.
  • Rinse with salt water one to four times a day.
  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Take medications as prescribed.

Following these tips will help expedite healing times and allow us to move on to placing the abutment.

Abutment Placement

The abutment is a screw that attaches the artificial teeth to the dental implant. The dentist will remove the temporary crown before placing the abutment into the patient's mouth, securing it to the dental post. The abutment has grooves that help attach the new artificial replacement. The artificial replacement will either be a bridge, crown, or dentures. This all depends on the placement of the dental implant and the number of dental implants the patient requires. The result will be a natural-looking smile that functions like the one they had before tooth loss.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in Peabody, MA

Learn More Today

Tooth loss does not have to permanently impact your life. Every day, we help patients like you restore their smiles and quality of life. If you want to learn more about the dental implant process, our dedicated team is happy to help.

Request an appointment or call Northside Dental Care, PC at 978-206-7077 for an appointment in our Peabody office.

Recent Posts

3 Signs You May Need A Dental Implant

You may not be aware that you need dental implants. But your dentist can tell you that you do, especially if you have regular checkups. Knowing if you need these restorations can motivate you to see your dentist about getting these dental replacements. Here are the three signs that you may need dental implants.Tooth loss…

Exploring Different Types Of Dental Implants And Their Benefits

Dental implants are lasting and stable dental restorations. Research shows that many people prefer implants to removable dentures because of their many benefits. Knowing how implants are better dental replacements can motivate you to come in for a consultation. Here are the benefits of having dental implants as replacements for your missing teeth.Tooth loss results…

What To Expect When Receiving Dental Implants

Approval for dental implants puts you one step closer to restoring a complete, healthy smile. Dental implants can restore both the appearance and functionality of a full set of teeth. This way, patients can enjoy a full set of teeth along with a smile they enjoy showing off. The process is somewhat lengthy, so knowing…

Northside Dental Care, PC

Share
Published by
Northside Dental Care, PC

Recent Posts

3 Signs You May Need a Dental Implant

You may not be aware that you need dental implants. But your dentist can tell…

11 hours ago

Exploring Different Types of Dental Implants and Their Benefits

Dental implants are lasting and stable dental restorations. Research shows that many people prefer implants…

2 days ago

All-on-4 Treatment from Your Dentist

Talk to your dental professional to find out if you are a candidate and learn…

1 week ago

What to Expect When Receiving Dental Implants

Approval for dental implants puts you one step closer to restoring a complete, healthy smile.…

1 week ago

What Are the Different Types of Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial roots that a dentist surgically places into the jawbone. The prosthetic…

2 weeks ago

A General Dentist Explains the Process of Getting Dental Implants

You can do research on dental implants on your own, but getting the facts from…

2 weeks ago