Dental Implants
When a tooth is missing, there are several ways to replace it. One of these is by getting a dental implant. Dental implants are a highly effective way to get a new tooth that looks just like the tooth you lost so that no one can tell the difference.
Trillium Oral Surgery and Implantology is pleased to provide our patients with the means to restore the look and function of their smiles. Our dentists are highly skilled in dental implants.
What’s It Like to Get a Dental Implant?
Getting a dental implant requires three distinct steps, and it takes several months to go through all of the steps. Often, you get the first two steps with an oral surgeon and then the final step, the crown on top, from your dentist. The entire process often takes about six months to complete, but the exact time will depend on your unique mouth and how it heals.
A healing time is needed in between each of the steps to ensure that the next step can be completed. These in-between months give the gums and bone time to heal properly.
Implanting the post is the first step. The doctor will implant a titanium post into your jaw. This replaces the root of the tooth, keeping the rest of the new tooth well anchored.
The next stage is the abutment placement. The abutment is a metal part that will fit between the crown on top and the titanium post, securely holding the crown to the post.
The third step is the crown that is fitted on top of the abutment. It’s the visible part of the implant, and it looks just like your natural tooth. It’s made from ceramic and is crafted to have the shape and color of the tooth you lost so that it fits in perfectly. No one should be able to tell that it’s a crown.
If you’re told that you have too much bone loss to get a dental implant, you may be able to get a bone graft to add to the amount of bone you have. This adds another step to the process, and the graft has to heal before the implant can be started. To find out if you have enough bone, our team will take an X-ray and assess whether a bone graft is needed.
You will most likely be sedated for your implant so that you will stay comfortable. The implantation process will be as easy as falling asleep and waking up with the post implanted.
The Benefits of a Dental Implant
The natural look of the implant is just one of the benefits of choosing this tooth restoration method. It is also a durable solution that can last the rest of your life if it is cared for well. The titanium post gives the rest of the implant a strong anchor so that it stays in place. The crown is also highly durable and can be used just like a natural tooth for chewing, biting, and smiling. To keep them in good condition, be sure to brush and floss them when you care for your natural teeth.
Dental Implants With Our Skilled Team
If you are interested in replacing a tooth with a dental implant, call us at Trillium Oral Surgery and Implantology to make your appointment. You will consult with one of our dentists and decide on a unique treatment plan to restore your smile.