Dental Implants Specialist

What’s a dental implant?

A dental implant is a replacement for a missing tooth and consists of three components:

• Post: A titanium, prosthetic device that replaces the root structure
• Abutment: A connector placed on the post to support the crown
• Crown: The artificial tooth attached to the abutment

These three components work together to replace your missing tooth. 

How does the implant process work?

Most dental implants require several trips to the dentist with many months of healing in between. The implant process consists of preparation, surgery, recovery, and crown placement.

Preparation

During the preparation phase, the team at First Smile Dental conducts a comprehensive examination and takes X-rays to assess your dental health. They record your medical history, including your health conditions and any medications you take. Next, your dentist prepares a customized treatment plan by taking your particular considerations into account.

Surgery

Dental implants require outpatient surgery. The team discusses your anesthesia options beforehand and uses either local or general anesthesia to help you tolerate this procedure.

While you rest, she makes an incision in your gum, prepares the bone for the implant, and screws the metal post into your jawbone. After you’re anesthetized for maximum comfort, your dentist makes an incision in your gum, prepares the bone for the post, and places it in your jawbone. They then stitch the incision closed, preparing you for recovery are the final steps.

Recovery

Over the next several weeks or months, your jawbone fuses to the post to create a stable foundation for your implant.

Crown placement

After the jawbone heals around the post, your dentist attaches the abutment to the implant and takes impressions to design your crown. After the crown is created, it’s attached to the abutment to complete your reconstruction.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants are the best substitute for your natural teeth, allowing for optimal chewing and speaking functions. Implants also restore the appearance of your smile, so no one can guess your tooth isn’t real.

Implants prevent bone disintegration and maintain your jawbone’s health just like a natural tooth. Without a tooth, your jawbone breaks down over time.

Dental implants are a permanent solution. Unlike other restorative options that eventually require adjustments and replacement, dental implants should last a lifetime.

To learn more about dental implants, call the office or schedule an appointment with First Smile Dental by using the online booking tool.