Implants are a dental prosthetic typically made from Titanium, that is surgically inserted into the bone, replacing the deeper root structure from the missing tooth. Once the implant is fully healed, a crown or tooth like restoration is connected to it.
First is the preparation:
Before an implant can be placed, the recipient site must be properly prepared to ensure adequate support. Often, bone grafting is necessary to replenish insufficient bone levels. A CBCT, or 3D X-ray is taken of the patient, and surgery is planned out precisely.
Surgery Day:
You will be prepped and properly cared for during the surgery. We will place the implant, suture the site, and provide a temporary restoration if possible. After surgery, we will provide you or your guardian with post-op instructions.
And then we wait:
Implants require several months to fuse to your bone, a process called Osseointegration. After a sufficient time has passed, we uncover the implant and check if it has healed. Once the implant has fully integrated, we are ready to begin the restoration process.
Delivery and After Care:
After the implant has been cleared, we scan for the fabrication of the crown. Once the crown has been fabricated, we deliver it in our office. Post-op instructions are then provided to ensure proper maintenance.
Implants are also a great treatment option for patients who currently have or anticipate having dentures. The process is very similar to the one listed above, but at the delivery appointment, we will connect the implants to the dentures.