Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option out there. Since they replace the roots of the missing teeth that you can’t experience from dentures or dental bridges. To achieve this, getting dental implants requires a multi-step process, including a surgical procedure. Read on to learn more about dental implants and how long the entire process will take.
How Long Does It Take to Place Dental Implants?
Your procedure begins with your dentist numbing your mouth with a local anesthetic, so you won’t feel anything. Then, an incision is made in the gum tissue so the dental implants can be precisely placed into the jawbone at strategic angles. Lastly, the gums are closed, and protective caps are placed over the ends of the implants to protect them as the area heals.
The entire surgical process usually takes between one and two hours for a single dental implant. If you are getting more than one dental implant, this will lengthen the surgery time. During your consultation, your dentist will give you a more specific estimation so that you can plan accordingly.
How Long Does It Take for Dental Implants to Heal?
After your surgery is complete, the recovery period begins. This can take anywhere from three to six months. During this time, the titanium dental implants will fuse to your jawbone in a process called “osseointegration.” This is what gives dental implants so much stability and longevity. Inflammation and discomfort are normal for a few days following your surgery and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. This should subside over the next few weeks. It’s important that you closely follow your aftercare instructions to leave the surgical site undisturbed. After the fusion process has taken place, the dental implant treatment can be completed. This can take anywhere from three to six months depending on the patient.
The Final Steps
After your dental implants have completely fused to the jawbone, you will need to undergo another minor procedure. At this point, the abutments are attached to the ends of your implants. Impressions are taken so your restoration can be customized at the dental laboratory. Once they are ready, you will return to the dental office so your replacement teeth can be secured to your dental implants via the abutments. If everything looks and feels great, you will be free to show off your complete smile to the world!
Getting dental implants takes some patience, but the long-lasting results are well worth the wait!
About the Practice
At Salmon Brook Dental, Dr. Kenneth Endres, Dr. Gunveen Chawla, and Dr. Areej Almas work together to treat patients in Granby. They complete the entire dental implant process in-house, so you don’t need to work with an outside specialist at a separate location. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule a consultation, visit their website or call (860) 653-4551.