Dental Implants Surgery: From Planning to Placement
Placing traditional dental implants requires two surgeries over the span of about four to six months. Depending on the condition of a patient's jaw, a bone graft may be necessary before moving ahead with the procedure. Dr. Bill Stofer is an expert in dental implant placement who believes patient education is integral to the success of this life-changing procedure. During a one-on-one consultation, he will take all the time necessary to explain what you can expect during your journey toward a fully restored smile. If you are suffering with missing teeth, or if you have teeth that need to be replaced, dental implants surgery can restore your comfort and confidence. Contact our Warsaw, IN, office today to schedule a consultation.
Planning the Procedure
Dental implants surgery requires careful planning using sophisticated technology and techniques. Your doctor will inspect your smile for tooth decay or gum disease, which must be addressed before proceeding with surgery. X-rays are used to plan a placement strategy and assess the health of the jawbone. In the absence of tooth roots, the jaw bone will begin to gradually shrink. If you have been missing teeth for a long period, you may lack the amount of bone tissue necessary to support an implant. In this case, a bone graft is necessary in order to restore a proper base for dental implants. Patients who are missing all of their teeth may qualify for All-on-4® dental implants which take advantage of existing bone tissue to restore a dental arch.
Although the process of receiving dental implants can require many months of healing time, the fact is that implants justify the wait because they are the absolute best means of replacing missing teeth.
Bone Grafting
During a bone grafting procedure, your surgeon will use donor tissue to replace lost bone tissue in the jaw. An incision is placed in the gums at the treatment area, the donor tissue is grafted onto the jaw, and the gums are sutured closed to facilitate healing. While healing time varies, most bone grafts are ready to support implants within about four months.
Placing the Implants
During the placement surgery, the implantologist creates an incision in the gums, exposing the jaw bone. A small pilot hole is drilled into the bone, and the threaded implant is inserted. Next, the gum is sutured closed over the implant. Over the next four to six months, the implant becomes permanently fused to the bone tissue in a process called osseointegration.
Placing the Abutment
Once the bone has completely fused with the implant, patients undergo a second surgery to prepare for restoration. The surgeon creates an incision in the gum to access the implant. A special abutment piece is attached to the top of the implant to act as the point of connection with the denture, bridge, or crown. Next, the gums are sutured closed in order to leave the abutment exposed above the gum line. Once the gums have healed, usually within a couple of weeks, the dentist will take impressions of the abutments and surrounding teeth to guide technicians in creating the restoration.
Why Undergo Dental Implant Placement Surgery?
Although the process of receiving dental implants can require many months of healing time, the fact is that implants justify the wait because they are the absolute best means of replacing missing teeth. Implants are the only restorative solution that can prevent a reduction in bone tissue following tooth loss, and they provide unparalleled support for restorations, allowing you to chew and speak without worrying that your restorations will slip out of place. Meanwhile, implants can last the rest of your life with proper oral hygiene and ongoing care from a credentialed dentist.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are suffering with missing teeth, there is no better time than now to explore the incredible benefits of dental implants. Please contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
