Dental implants are a popular option for people who are seeking an alternative to dentures or want to repair gaps in their smile left by missing teeth. Unlike dentures, which are often removable, dental implants offer a long-term option for tooth replacement. Featuring artificial titanium roots, dental implants provide patients with the look and feel of natural teeth.

The Ideal Candidate

Patients who are missing one or more teeth are the best candidates for dental implants. To qualify, you must have a fully-developed jawbone, along with healthy gums and oral tissues. If there is not enough bone to secure the implants, your dentist will likely perform a bone graft.

The cost and time commitment of dental implants should also be taken into consideration. From beginning to end, the dental implant process can take several months to complete. Most dental insurances do not cover the procedure, so discuss the timeline and financing options with your dentist.

The Process

During the procedure, your dentist will open the gum tissue to expose the area of the jaw where your implant will be fused. Using a drill, he or she will create a space for your titanium implant. Bone grafts are normally performed during this time if there is not enough jawbone to support the implant.

You will have stitches at this point, which can be removed one to two weeks after surgery. You will likely take three to six months to heal. During this time, it’s important to take extra precautions with your teeth. Talk to your oral surgeon about any do’s and don’ts during the healing process, such as foods to avoid and how to keep your mouth clean.

Once your gums have healed and the implant has successfully fused with your jawbone, your oral surgeon will open the gum tissue up again and attach a post to the implant.  This device helps anchor your new implant, ensuring it stays in place.

After another healing phase, your dentist will use an impression of your teeth to create a crown for your implant. Normally made from porcelain or ceramic, this prosthetic acts as a cap for your tooth and helps your implant blend in with your surrounding teeth. Once you’re satisfied with the fit of your crown, it will be attached to the implant post.

If you’re ready to brighten your smile and repair the gaps left by missing teeth, talk to Oral Surgery Center, S.C. in Baraboo, WI about your candidacy for dental implants. This practice’s team of skilled oral surgeons is committed to staying up-to-date on the latest technological innovations in the dental industry, ensuring that patients receive the best care possible. Learn more about dental implants by visiting their website or giving these oral surgeons a call at (608) 356-2112.