When a tooth needs to be removed because of damage or is already missing, dental implants are often a good alternative to dentures or bridges. The artificial tooth looks and functions much like real ones so many dentists, including Dr. Shim, choose this option to restore not only the strength of the missing tooth and surrounding teeth, but also to keep the natural look of the teeth.
The dental implant process can take several months because of the healing required in between the various stages. As with all of our procedures at Corner Dentistry, we’ll do everything we can to ensure the process is as painless as possible. Dr. Shim has years of experience performing this surgery for patients, so you can rest assured you’ll be in good hands.
What are dental implants?
An easy way to think of a dental implant is like an artificial tooth root. Metal screw-like posts are surgically placed in the tooth root and overtime your jaw will fuse with it to create a strong base for the new artificial tooth. Abutements, or connectors, are placed on top of the dental implant to attach it to and support the new crown.
Crowns are then custom made to match the look and color of your natural teeth and are placed over the implant and abutement. The final result is a nearly seamless look to your teeth, and restored strength and functionality of your teeth and mouth.
When Dental Implants are Needed
If you have missing or damaged teeth that need to be removed, but are also unwilling or cannot get dentures, bridges, or crowns, dental implants would most likely be the best fit for you. Replacing lost teeth is crucial to the overall health and functionality of your mouth, as leaving those spaces unfilled can result in a much larger problem as time goes on. Your oral history, condition of your jawbone, use of tobacco, and your willingness to commit several months to the process all influence whether or not you’d be a good candidate for implants.
Dental Implants Procedure and Recovery Time
Dental implant surgery depends on a few factors of the patient’s unique set of circumstances. The type of implant and condition of your jawbone will both play a role in how Dr. Shim approaches your implant surgery. No matter what set of circumstances you have, however, we’ll always approach your procedure with your comfort top of mind.
The dental implant process is typically completed in stages with healing time factored in between the steps. Depending on your specific case, some of the stages can be combined together and help expedite the process. The full procedure usually looks something like the stages listed below.
- Tooth removal
- Dental implant insertion
- Jawbone healing
- Abutement placement
- Artificial tooth insertion
In some cases, bone grafting might be required after the tooth removal. This is when your jawbone isn’t thick enough or is too soft to support the dental implant. A bone graft can create a stronger base for the implant and weather the constant chewing and pressure exerted on your jaw.
Your recovery time will depend on how quickly your jawbone heals. In most cases, dental implants take several months to complete, but in more severe cases can take over a year. After your procedure, you’ll most likely experience common discomforts that come along with any dental procedure, like swelling of the gums and face, pain at the implant site, and minor bleeding. It’s important to follow Dr. Shim’s recovery instructions to ensure you’re healing properly.
Success Rates
The majority of dental implants are successful, but in rare cases the bone doesn’t fuse with the implant. This is more common among tobacco users and smokers. If this happens, the implant is removed and the bone is cleaned. Another attempt can be made within the next 3-4 months once the bone has fully healed.
Dental Implant Services in Phoenix
Whether you think you might be a candidate for dental implants or simply want to schedule a check up to determine the health of your teeth, Corner Dentistry will be able to assess the best course of action for your specific case. With over a decade of experience, we’ll ensure the comfort and oral health of our patients before, during, and after their procedure.