Permanently Restore Your Smile with Dental Implants

Dental implants are a permanent replacement option for those missing one or several teeth. They are highly sought after due to their ability to address all the side effects of tooth loss, from restoring appearance and function to preventing shifting and degeneration. Learning more about dental implants can help determine whether this option is appropriate.

What are dental implants?

According to the United States Food and Drug Administration or FDA, dental implants are tooth replacements comprising titanium (most common) or zirconium oxide—two biocompatible materials. Their design consists of three parts: the post, abutment, and restorative.

These parts must be constructed separately but securely fit together when attached during implanting.

Who is an ideal candidate for dental implants?

Dental implants involve a lengthy, invasive process. Therefore, general dentists must ensure they can undergo it safely. The ideal candidate will have adequate healthy gum tissue to surround the abutment and sufficient healthy jawbone to support the post. Too little of either structure may result in the dentist recommending grafting. However, if disease or infection is present, patients must undergo treatment before rescheduling a dental implant consultation.

Further, the ideal candidate will be free from lifestyle habits and underlying medical conditions that comprise their immune system. For example, those who smoke, vape, or use any tobacco products may be denied candidacy due to the increased risk of bleeding during the procedures, implant rejection, and infection. Those with an underlying medical condition such as diabetes may need alternatives due to the same risks, though the dentist will determine candidacy on a per-case basis.

What to expect during the dental implant process

After approval, the general dentist will give the patient a tentative timeline. However, patients can expect it to be split into phases. Between each phase or appointment, there will be follow-up appointments to ensure the patient is progressing successfully and there are no signs of implant failure or infection.

Phase one

Remember, the general dentist will work their way up, so they start with the base of the dental implant—the post. After using an anesthetic, the dentist will create an incision in the gumline to access the jawbone. Next, they drill a hole large enough to embed the post into place. Once secure, the dentist will suture the gumline over the jawbone and post.

Phase two

Following phase one, patients will enter osseointegration. This is a few-month-long process that involves the jawbone and implant post fusing together. While dental implant failure can occur at any time, it is more likely to occur during this phase. On average, osseointegration can last from six to nine months; however, this healing process varies from patient to patient.

Phase three

Once the post and jawbone become one, patients will return to receive the abutment. This procedure involves another round of anesthetic so the dentist may reopen the gumline without causing discomfort. If necessary, they will attach the abutment to the post before placing one or two stitches.

Phase four

The second healing phase will go by relatively fast, lasting only a few weeks. Of course, healing time depends on the body's capabilities.

Phase five

The last phase involves placing the custom restoration on top of the abutment. This phase requires no cutting or stitches. However, the dentist will have the patient perform bite tests to ensure a comfortable and aligned fit.