Dental implants are remarkable prosthetic devices that can replace any number of missing teeth with gorgeous restorations that look and work just like the real thing. Placing these devices takes significantly longer than crafting traditional restorations like bridges and dentures, but implants offer a wide range of benefits that make them well worth the effort. Here’s a quick look at a typical timeframe for dental implants as well as the placement surgery they require.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant consists of a titanium post surgically inserted into the jawbone and fused with its structure through the natural process of osseointegration. Since this device is bonded with the jaw, it can provide the sturdy foundation lifelike restorations like crowns, bridges, and dentures need to exert maximum chewing power and last for decades.
How Long Does It Take to Get Dental Implants?
It usually takes several months to receive dental implants. The stages of the process include:
- Consultation: Your dentist evaluates your oral health and determines the best way to replace your missing teeth at their office. Many patients will be best served by dental implants.
- Preliminary procedures: A patient may need to receive gum disease therapy or bone grafts before receiving implants. The implant surgery will be scheduled after they have recovered from any necessary treatments, which can take several weeks.
- Dental implant surgery: This painless and minor procedure can take up to several hours and involves a typically mild recovery period. After your new implants have had several months to fuse with your jaw, you can be scheduled to receive your abutments.
- Abutments: These devices will be placed on your implants, and they serve to keep the artificial teeth in place. After your mouth has had a few weeks to heal, you’ll be ready to be fitted for your final restorations.
- Restorations: Your dentist will take detailed measurements of your mouth, and these will be used to craft your final restorations. When they arrive at the dental office, you’ll come back to have them placed.
How Long Does Dental Implant Surgery Take?
Placing one dental implant typically takes an hour or two, and placing more will take proportionately longer. The process always begins with the oral surgeon administering an appropriate anesthetic to ensure that the patient feels no pain. When the patient is suitably numb, the surgeon will make small incisions in the gum tissue, place titanium posts within the jawbone, and close the wounds around the new implants. They will then provide the patient with detailed aftercare instructions to help them enjoy a smooth recovery.
Dental implants may be the best way to restore your smile. Consulting with your dentist can help you understand how your lost teeth can be replaced.
About the Author
Dr. James Nelson offers the finest oral health services in Metairie. He graduated from the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry in New Orleans and is a proud member of the American Dental Association, the Louisiana Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. His office provides general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry as well as dental implant services. To schedule your dental implant consultation, contact the office online or dial (504) 887-3311.