The process of receiving a dental restoration secured by implants will involve more time and visits when compared to getting traditional restorations. However, the exact amount of time it takes depends on many factors, including the number of missing teeth you have and their location. The dental implants process in our Rogers, AR office will take several visits.
Dental implants offer many more benefits despite the process taking longer than removable options. Dental implants are the best long-term solution for tooth loss. Dr. Heather Adams is a local restorative dentist in Rogers, AR, who offers all types of dental implants. She provides implant dentistry for patients seeking a more permanent solution for their missing teeth. Below is a breakdown of what to expect at each step in the dental implant process.
The Dental Implants Process in Rogers, AR
There are multiple steps to the implant treatment process. Dr. Adams takes the time to ensure you get the right restoration to fit your needs. She will also allow you to heal properly to ensure your implants last for years. The implant process includes these steps:
Initial consultation
You will first meet with Dr. Adams to see if you qualify for dental implants. Good candidates for dental implants are in good dental health and have enough jaw bone to support the implant posts. You will also discuss your concerns and agree upon a solution. Dr. Adams will thoroughly evaluate your mouth, teeth, gums, and overall health to ensure dental implants fit you well.
She will then develop a personalized treatment plan. Dr. Adams will plan each step of your treatment. Our office staff will coordinate every stage of your implant treatment with local Rogers, AR dental specialists.
Pre-treatments
Some patients may need treatments to correct issues before proceeding to surgical implantation. The purpose is to create a healthy environment so your implants can heal properly. Patients who do not have enough bone structure may need a bone graft. Grafting will ensure there is enough bone to support the implants.
Some patients may find out they have gum disease and need treatment first. The healing time after these procedures will extend the time the whole dental implant process will take. If you do not need this done, you can move straight to the surgical implantation. The whole process takes about six to eight months.
Surgical placement of the implant(s)
A local specialist will surgically place your dental implants by your treatment plan. It typically takes about an hour to place a single implant. If you get multiple implants, it will take longer, depending on how many implants are placed. You will be offered dental sedation or a local anesthetic for this simple procedure.
Implant healing
The implants will take about three to six months to heal fully. This process is called osseointegration.
The implants will fuse with the surrounding jaw bone during this process, creating a strong foundation for your new teeth. The jaw bone will grow around the titanium implant post. During this time, we will place a temporary dental restoration depending on the location of your missing teeth.
Abutment attachment
Once healed, we will cap the dental implant with a small piece called an abutment. This piece will anchor the final restoration in place. You will need to let your gums heal after the abutment placement.
Dental restoration fabrication
We will take impressions of your mouth and remaining teeth, which we will use to make your dental restoration. It usually takes a dental lab a few weeks to make and send the restorations back to our Rockville, AR, dentist’s office. The lab can create single crowns, dental bridges, or dentures.
Securing the restoration to the implant(s)
You will return to our office once you are fully healed and we receive your final restoration. Dr. Adams will attach your new restoration to the implants at this appointment. She will check for color and fit and make any minor adjustments.
Caring for Dental Implants
When you recieve your final restoration, it will take some time to get used to living with your new teeth. However, implant restorations do not require special care. You can gently brush and floss your restorations like natural teeth.
We do not recommend that you smoke or use tobacco products as your implant posts and abutments heal. Nicotine restricts the blood vessels, which slows the healing process.
Tobacco also creates a dry environment in the mouth that attracts harmful bacteria. Using tobacco products during the implant process can increase the risk of implant failure. Implants can fail when they do not heal properly or if you develop an infection that affects the stability of your new teeth.
Are Dental Implants Worth It?
Yes, dental implants are worth the time and cost for many patients. Other options, like traditional bridges or removable dentures, don’t last as long as implant-supported restorations.
Dental implants act like new tooth roots to support the surrounding teeth, gums, and jaw bone. The dental implant post is also permanent. You do not need to replace your implant post as long as you care for your implant restoration.
Investing in your oral health will also help prevent future dental health problems. You do not need to rebase or reline your implant restoration. An implant-supported restoration will not slip around your mouth or create gum sores. Dental implants act like natural teeth to restore the comfort and function of your teeth.
Get Dental Implants Today
Are you missing one or more teeth? Do you want to restore your missing teeth permanently? Call Dr. Heather Adams for (479) 323-3011 or schedule a dental appointment online. Dr. Adams will walk you through the dental implants process in her Rogers office.
If you are unsure if implants are right for you but want to replace your missing teeth, contact Dr. Adams. She welcomes your questions and concerns.