A Look at the Dental Implant Procedure

Are you missing one or more permanent teeth? If so, you’re not alone. Many people have at least one missing tooth due to injury, accident, decay, or other reasons. A missing tooth can make you feel less confident in your smile and your overall appearance, and can have long-term consequences for your oral health. There are a number of options for replacing missing teeth, including dental implants near San Jose. Dental implants are a permanent and aesthetically pleasing choice for filling in the gap where a tooth once was. Continue reading to learn more about the dental implant procedure.

Stage One

Once you and your dentist have determined that dental implants are right for you, the dental implant procedure can begin. Dental implants are typically placed in stages, with ample time in between each stage to allow for proper healing. To prepare your mouth for a dental implant, your dentist will surgically bury the implant in your jaw bone. You’ll be anesthetized for the procedure, so you don’t have to worry about feeling anything. Once the implant is buried under the gum line, it will be allowed to heal to protect it while you chew, speak, and smile.

Stage Two

After the implant has been placed and time has passed, your dentist will check to make sure that the implant has integrated into your jaw bone successfully. The dental implant is exposed, and a post, or an abutment, is attached. The abutment will eventually be what the implant crown is attached to, but first, the gums must heal around it.

Stage Three

Now that the gum tissue around the abutment has healed, you are ready for the final stage of dental implant placement. Your dentist will create a custom crown for you that matches your existing teeth in size, shape, and color, so that the dental implant looks natural. Once all of the healing is complete, you can care for your dental implant by brushing and flossing as you normally do, paying special attention to the area around the implant.