How Long Does a Dental Implant Procedure Take?
Whether you have one missing tooth or many, you have the option to replace them with functional, natural-looking dental implants. These implants, which are secured into your jawbone, work like your own teeth. While the dental implant procedure takes time, the results can last a lifetime.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of:
- A titanium implant that is placed into the jawbone
- An abutment or post on top of the implant to hold the crown
- A durable crown that looks and works like a tooth
Titanium is commonly used for medical implants because of its ability to bond with bone, creating a stable, secure base for your dental implant. While crowns are stronger and harder than real teeth, they can be replaced without removing the implant if they are ever damaged.
How Long Does a Dental Implant Procedure Take?
A dental implant procedure involves several steps and can take several months. The first step is to place the implant into the jawbone, which takes one to two hours. After this procedure, the implant needs to fuse with the bone, a process called osseointegration, which takes several months. The result is a stable and very strong platform for the implant.
After osseointegration is complete, the abutment is attached by screwing it into the implant. The crown is attached to the abutment, where it can be replaced if needed, although they are extremely durable.
In some cases, there may not be enough bone to secure the implant. This situation often occurs if the tooth has been missing for a while and the bone is no longer stable. In this case, your oral surgeon may perform a bone graft using synthetic or natural bone. This bone fuses to your jawbone to prove an attachment site for the implant. This process adds three to four months to the overall timeline for your dental implant procedure.
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Give us a call today at 817-927-1818 or fill out the form below to schedule an appointment. You’ll be happy you chose Facial & Cosmetic Surgery Fort Worth for your oral surgery and facial cosmetic surgery needs.
Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Dental implants are an excellent option for many people but are not right for everyone. If you have more than a few missing teeth, implants can become expensive, so you may choose to have a few implants to secure a denture or bridge. Good candidates have reasonable expectations and are prepared for the process to take several months.
What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
People choose dental implants to replace missing teeth for many reasons. Some of the benefits of replacing teeth this way include:
- Will never shift or move while you talk or eat
- Look like your natural teeth
- Can last a lifetime
- Easy to clean – just brush and floss like your natural teeth
- No discomfort from poorly-fitting dentures
- Preserves the strength of your jawbone
Take the Next Step
If you have further questions about dental implants, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at Faces Fort Worth. Call us at (817) 927-1818 or fill out our online contact form. We look forward to taking care of you.
