Dental implants are a permanent and appealing solution to replace missing or extracted teeth. They are better than other alternatives like bridges because no additional teeth need to be altered to place the new tooth and research shows that they are a more long lasting solution.
The entire implant process is usually carried out in a number of stages over three to four months. The first stage of the process is to place the implant itself, An incision is made in the gum and the implant is placed in the bone level with its surface. It is usual to place in the implant an extention or healing abutment that just protrudes through the gum, this will allow the tissues to acheive an ideal shape and will make the following stages easier. Multiple implants can be placed at once if necessary. After the implants are placed the gums are sutured.
The implant must be allowed about 3 months to heal, and during this time the jaw bone will form around the implant in a process called osseointegration. During this healing time you may be able to have temporary crowns installed so that you can eat and speak normally and maintain a proper aesthetic appearance for your smile.
After the implant has integrated it is time to place an abutment on the implant. The abutment serves as the base for your new tooth. An impression of the implant is taken and is used to create your permanent abutment and restoration. Your smile will look just like it used to, and after a short period of getting used to the implant it will feel just like one of your own teeth.
For implant pictures see our smile gallery.
