A dental implant is the most prominent procedure to replace a missing tooth. Your tooth in most cases has eroded due to decay, deterioration, or damage sustained to the area. On a more positive note, our team and staff have a solution! Dental implants are merely a post that is surgically implanted into the patient’s jawbone to act as the missing tooth’s roots. The dentist will then have a false tooth placed over the implant to serve as the tooth’s visible portion.
There are a myriad of options when it comes to choosing the right dental implant restoration and material type. If a patient needs only one tooth replaced, it is possible to pick a dental crown over a dental implant. However, if the adjacent teeth are rotted, a bridge over dental implants is better suited for the patients long term results. Patients might choose from porcelain or zirconia as far as materials go. Each is durable and looks natural, and can be used in any portion of the mouth. The dentist here at San Marcos Dental Center will pick the right color to match the rest of the teeth.
What is the process of having a dental implant surgery?
The patient will need to have two surgeries done to place the implants. During the initial consultation appointment, our team will take some x-rays and images to custom tailor a treatment plan. If the patient has some bone loss, they might not immediately be the right candidate for the procedure. Instead, some bone grafting might be necessary to build up the jawbone. Once the grafting has been completed, then the patient can have the dental implant procedure. Anesthesia is given before the surgery. The patient will generally have an incision made in the gumline, creating a hole in that jawbone. The dentist can place the implant through that hole, stitching the gums closed when they are finished.
The dental implants will then fuse to the bone throughout around three to six months. Then the patient is ready to take the next step. This Involves making an incision into the gums again, exposing the implant. Then the dentist will add the abutment to the implant. This connects the dental implant to the crown for a custom fit. The dentist will then stitch your gums closed after that but does it so the abutment is exposed. The abutment helps the restoration and implant connect. However, the patient will need to heal for around two or three weeks first. Finally, your dentist can place the repair over the teeth. This piece is customized to fit the patient’s teeth better. That way, it will not interfere with the bite or feel uncomfortable. Over time, the new tooth will start to feel completely natural, completing the patient’s smile.
Our team is easily accessible and more than happy to answer any questions that you may have. Please feel free to stop by any time and say hello to our friendly staff. We realize that dentistry can be very intimidating but our team is committed to making sure that your dental procedures are as quick and painless as possible. We are always happy to hear feedback from patients and potential patients, and our dentists are filled with professional dental expertise so you are always in good hands!