Dental implants are an intricate method to replace missing teeth. The process alone involves several steps, including surgery, and will take several months. Patients who choose this tooth replacement method should prepare for months of treatment, unlike dentures or bridges, which will only take a month to complete. Premier Dental Care will complete the dental implant process in Lancaster and Palmdale, CA, for patients missing any number of teeth.
Dental implants are small, titanium metal posts that secure crowns, bridges, and dentures. Even with tooth and jaw bone loss, Most patients are candidates for implants because we can offer treatments before placement. We can replace removable options with implants or provide brand-new implants.
The Dental Implant Process in Palmdale and Lancaster, CA
The process has many steps, the first being the planning phase. Following that is oral surgery, healing, abutment placement, and placement of the final restoration. Here, we explain the dental implant process to help you understand why dental implants are the best choice for replacing teeth.
Planning Phase
The planning phase is the most essential part of the dental implant process. Many things will take place to prepare your dental implant treatment. During the planning phase, the following will take place:
- The process begins with an initial consultation with our dentist. Our dentist will assess your oral health, review your medical history, evaluate your teeth, and discuss your expectations.
- Premier Dental Care uses cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) to create detailed 3D images of your jawbone and surrounding structures. We will use these to help determine bone density, volume, and the optimal implant placement.
- We will assess the quality and quantity of the bone in the jaw. Insufficient bone may require bone grafting procedures to enhance the implant site. While this may add time to your treatment, it ensures your implants stay stable.
- Our dental team will develop your implant treatment plan based on the diagnostic information. Your plan includes the number, type, and size of your dental implants. It also includes the ideal location of the implants and the type of prosthetic you need.
- Once your treatment plan is in place, we will discuss your treatment timeline and all the associated costs. Our staff will explain what to expect before, during, and after your oral surgery. Finally, we will explain post-operative care and maintaining good oral hygiene throughout the treatment.
Dental Implant Surgery
The next phase is your dental implant surgery. The procedure involves placing dental implants into the jawbone. We work with anesthesiologists to offer IV sedation and ensure your comfort during surgery.
Our dentist will make a small incision in the gums to access the jawbone. Precision drills will create tiny holes for the implant fixtures at each implant site. The drilling is done according to the dimensions in your treatment plan, ensuring a secure fit for the implant.
Once your implant sites are ready, our dentist will carefully insert each dental implant. The titanium implant posts will sit below the gumline and into the jawbone. The number of dental implants we place depends on your plan and the number of missing teeth you have.
In some cases, we will place a healing abutment on the implants. Our dentist will then suture the gum tissue around the implant for proper healing.
Healing Phase
During the healing period, also known as osseointegration, the dental implants fuse with the surrounding jawbone. The healing process is crucial to the success of your implant treatment.
Healing can take several weeks to months, depending on your healing abilities and the location of your implants. On average, it takes three to six months.
During this time, the bone tissue will grow and fuse to the surface of the dental implants. If you remain healthy and maintain a healthy environment for the implants to heal, this bone will mature and grow denser. This process helps to enhance the strength of the implant-bone interface.
Abutment Placement
If we do not place healing caps on your implant fixtures, we will place the abutments after the healing period. An abutment is a connector piece that attaches to an implant. It serves as the support structure for the final restoration.
Our dentist will expose the implants by making a small incision. They will place a custom abutment or a stock abutment on the implant using a screw for stability. Many different abutments exist to accommodate the different types of dental restorations.
At this point, we often take impressions and use them to create the final prosthetic. This ensures it fits with the abutment in place. At the same time, you will need time for your gums to heal.
Final Restoration Placement
We will send the molds to a dental laboratory. The lab will custom-make your final prosthetic, whether you need a dental crown, bridge, or denture. Once you are fully healed, we will place your permanent dental restoration.
Our dentist will place your final implant to the abutment, completing the dental implant treatment. The attachment may involve screws or dental cement, depending on the type of restoration. Finally, you will have a functional and aesthetically pleasing smile.
Are Dental Implants Worth It?
Although the dental implant process takes time, many patients find this process worth it for the results. Dental implants are strong enough to support a natural bite. Implants also preserve natural jaw bone to help improve facial structure.
Unlike traditional bridges or dentures, implants ensure restorations do not slip. While implants may require more initial investment, implant-supported restorations last for years. Like your natural tooth roots, implant posts will stay in your mouth permanently. You do not need to rebase or replace your implants.
Get Dental Implants Today
As your restorative dentist in Lancaster and Palmdale, CA, we’re here to help you find the best treatment to renew your dental health. Call our Palmdale dental office at (661) 273-6565 or our Lancaster office at (661) 948-6700. You may also schedule your appointment with us online.
If you have questions about implants, please let us know at your next visit. We’re here to help you find the best way to restore your missing teeth.
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