How Long The Dental Implant Process Takes

How Long is the Dental Implant Process?

Many patients who are in need of a tooth replacement may shy away from a dental implant as it may take longer than other options. If you’ve already decided you’re in need of some form of tooth replacement, you’ve probably already done your research on the benefits of dental implants. Additionally, you’ve found conflicting information about the timeline for the dental implant procedure.

There are many variables that can weigh in on the timeline for your dental implants columbus oh  Same day dental implants can allow a patient to walk out with four to six dental implants and full new set of permanent dental bridges. However, this option should only be available for the patient who already wears dentures or has the majority of their teeth missing or need to be pulled out for health reasons.

If you are a patient with one or two missing teeth, perhaps the traditional route for dental implants would be your best bet. The dental implant procedure consists of a few steps and a healing period before the process is considered finished.

The Exam or Consultation

This is the first step, and perhaps the most important step of your dental implant journey. Firstly, your dental professional will perform a thorough examination on all of your teeth and gums, as well as complete x-rays. This will allow the dentist to determine the best route for your tooth (or teeth) replacement. The examination day will likely only need one appointment and should take about an hour or less. If you have questions concerning the procedure, this is the best time to ask them!

The Implant Surgery

The next step will involve the insertion of the implant. Your dentist will first ensure you are completely numb in your jaw and teeth in the necessary area. You may even be put to a deep rest or ‘sleep’ if you wish. If you (the patient) do not need a bone graft or tooth extraction prior to the procedure, your dentist will implant the titanium post into the empty cavity using a number of tools. The surgery can
take between 1-2 hours, depending on the location of the tooth and how many are being replaced.

The Healing Period

Your dentist will then require a healing period before the procedure resumes. The titanium post that’s been inserted into your jaw bone must fuse together with the bone to create a stable foundation for the dental crown to sit on. The fusion process (also known as osseointegration) can vary between patient. Many take anywhere between 6-12 weeks.

The Abutment & Dental Crown Fitting

Once the fusion process has moved along nicely, the dentist will cement or screw in an abutment piece that will act as the middle ground between the post (inside the gums) and the dental crown (above the gum line). Once the abutment is set, the dental crown will be fixated on top for the final step. These two steps may be done in the same day; however, some dentists require an additional 1-2 week healing
period between these stages.

Talk to your dentist about dental implants to get a full break down of steps and benefits. There may be additional time added to this overall procedure if the patient is in need of an extraction or bone graft procedure.

As they say, good things take time, and although this procedure isn't considered quick, it is regarded as the best option!

Read more here about how much you can expect to spend on your dental implants.