Dental implants have become a popular solution for replacing missing teeth, offering a durable and natural-looking alternative to traditional dentures or bridges. At Oyster Point Dental, we specialize in providing top-quality dental implants to restore your smile and oral health. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand what dental implants are, the procedure involved, and how you can benefit from them.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium that are surgically placed into the jawbone to support replacement teeth. They consist of three main components:
- Implant Fixture: The titanium post that is inserted into the jawbone.
- Abutment: A connector that sits on top of the implant fixture and supports the crown.
- Crown: The visible part of the implant that looks like a natural tooth and is attached to the abutment.
The Dental Implant Procedure
The process of getting dental implants typically involves several steps, each designed to ensure a successful outcome. Here’s what you can expect during your implant journey at Oyster Point Dental:
Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation where our dental team will assess your oral health and discuss your needs. We’ll conduct X-rays and possibly a CT scan to evaluate the condition of your jawbone and determine the best placement for the implants. We’ll also review your medical history and discuss your goals for the treatment.
Treatment Planning
Once we have all the necessary information, we’ll develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific situation. This plan will outline the number of implants required, the type of restoration needed, and the timeline for the procedure.
Implant Placement Surgery
The next step is the surgical placement of the dental implants. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort. During the surgery, the implant fixtures are carefully positioned into the jawbone. In some cases, a temporary restoration may be placed while the implants heal.
Healing Period
After the implants are placed, a healing period of several months is necessary to allow the implants to integrate with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. During this time, the bone grows around the titanium posts, creating a stable foundation for the final restoration.
Abutment Placement
Once the implants have fully integrated with the bone, you’ll return to our office for the placement of the abutments. This minor procedure involves attaching the abutments to the implants, which will serve as the connection between the implants and the crowns.
Final Restoration
The final step is the placement of the custom-made crowns. We’ll take impressions of your mouth to ensure that the crowns fit perfectly and match the color and shape of your natural teeth. Once the crowns are ready, they will be securely attached to the abutments, completing your restoration.
