When you lose a tooth, for cosmetic and health reasons, you should have it replaced right away. Dental implant surgery is one way to do this. It involves replacing the root of a tooth with a metal post that fuses to the jaw bone before installing an artificial tooth that looks and functions just like a real tooth. Dental implant surgery has a wide variety of benefits over traditional dentures or bridges, but the surgery is a bit more invasive. When contemplating dental implant surgery, it is important to know what to expect.
Initial Office Visit
When you lose or have a severely damaged tooth, the first step is to visit a dentist. During this initial visit, your dentist will examine the area and determine your options. A dental x-ray may be taken and a mold will be taken of your teeth. After discussing everything with you, if you and your dentist determine that dental implantsurgery is the best option, an initial surgery date will be scheduled.
Removing the Damaged Tooth & Placing an Implant Post
During the first surgical visit, the damaged tooth—if there still is one—will be removed. At this stage, if bone grafting is required to create a more solid base for the implant, this will also be completed. If no bone graft is required, the dentist will be able to place the implant during this initial visit.
To place the implant, an incision will be made in your gum to expose the bone. A hole will then be drilled into your jawbone and a metal post will be implanted. The implant is not ready for the actual replacement tooth to be installed, but a temporary denture can be placed for appeared if needed.
Osseointegration
After the implant post is placed during the initial surgical visit, you need to wait for osseointegration to occur. This is when the jawbone fuses with the implanted post. This process can take several months but ensures that you have a solid foundation for a long-lasting implant.
Placing the Abutment & Choosing an Artificial Tooth
Once the jawbone and post have fused you will go back to the dentist’s office. During this visit, if necessary, an abutment will be placed. This is the piece where the artificial tooth attaches to, but is sometimes attached to the dental implant metal posts to eradicate the extra procedure.
After the abutment is in place you can choose your artificial teeth. You can choose from removable and fixed, depending on your preference and situation. Once your jaw bone is strong enough and your gums are healed, your artificial teeth will be installed and you can go on living life as if you hadn’t even lost it!
The Advanced Dental Technology at Metropolitan Smiles Can Improve the Dental Implant Process
At our state of the art facility in Kew Gardens, NY, we provide exceptional dental care in a relaxing environment. Dr. Artin Sakhaee is a dedicated dentist committed to providing the best dental implant experience possible. While pain is unavoidable when it comes to dental implants, at Metropolitan Smiles, Dr. Sakhaee will make you comfortable and relaxed during the procedure. If you are interested in having dental implant surgery to replace a missing or damaged tooth, contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
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