“What is the process of getting dental implants?”
I want to replace my missing molar tooth with an implant. What is the process of getting dental implants?
2 Answers
Replacing a missing molar with a dental implant is a precise, multi-step process designed to provide long-lasting results. At Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma, Dr. Jeremy Egan, DMD, MD, ensures a seamless experience, from your first consultation to your final restoration. Here’s a breakdown of the dental implant process:
Consultation and Planning
During the initial consultation, Dr. Egan will assess your dental and bone health through a thorough examination, including X-rays or a 3D CBCT scan. This step ensures that you have enough bone to support the implant. If bone density is insufficient, he may recommend a bone graft to strengthen the area before implant placement.
Bone Grafting (If Needed)
If the jawbone lacks the necessary density to support an implant, bone grafting might be required. This procedure adds volume and strength to the bone, creating a solid foundation for the implant. After bone grafting, a healing period of several months is often necessary to allow the graft to integrate fully.
Implant Placement Surgery
Once the area is ready, Dr. Egan will surgically place the titanium implant into the jawbone where the molar was missing. This procedure is typically done under local anesthesia or sedation, ensuring a comfortable experience. The implant post acts as an artificial tooth root, providing stability for the final crown.
Healing and Osseointegration
After placement, the jawbone naturally begins to fuse with the implant in a process known as osseointegration. This process can take 3-6 months, allowing the implant to integrate securely with the bone. Dr. Egan will monitor this healing phase to ensure optimal results.
Abutment Placement
Once osseointegration is complete, an abutment is attached to the implant post. This small connector piece will hold the final crown securely. In some cases, the abutment may be placed at the same time as the implant, depending on your unique situation.
Crown Placement
The final step is placing a custom-made crown onto the abutment. This crown is designed to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, providing a seamless, functional, and aesthetically pleasing result. With the crown in place, your smile is fully restored, and the implant functions just like a natural molar.
Follow-Up and Maintenance
Dr. Egan will provide follow-up care instructions to ensure your implant stays in excellent condition. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential to maintaining the longevity of your dental implant.
At Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma, Dr. Jeremy Egan combines expertise and advanced techniques to ensure every implant placement is successful. This meticulous approach has made us one of Tulsa’s top providers for dental implants, restoring smiles and function for patients every day.
Consultation and Planning
During the initial consultation, Dr. Egan will assess your dental and bone health through a thorough examination, including X-rays or a 3D CBCT scan. This step ensures that you have enough bone to support the implant. If bone density is insufficient, he may recommend a bone graft to strengthen the area before implant placement.
Bone Grafting (If Needed)
If the jawbone lacks the necessary density to support an implant, bone grafting might be required. This procedure adds volume and strength to the bone, creating a solid foundation for the implant. After bone grafting, a healing period of several months is often necessary to allow the graft to integrate fully.
Implant Placement Surgery
Once the area is ready, Dr. Egan will surgically place the titanium implant into the jawbone where the molar was missing. This procedure is typically done under local anesthesia or sedation, ensuring a comfortable experience. The implant post acts as an artificial tooth root, providing stability for the final crown.
Healing and Osseointegration
After placement, the jawbone naturally begins to fuse with the implant in a process known as osseointegration. This process can take 3-6 months, allowing the implant to integrate securely with the bone. Dr. Egan will monitor this healing phase to ensure optimal results.
Abutment Placement
Once osseointegration is complete, an abutment is attached to the implant post. This small connector piece will hold the final crown securely. In some cases, the abutment may be placed at the same time as the implant, depending on your unique situation.
Crown Placement
The final step is placing a custom-made crown onto the abutment. This crown is designed to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, providing a seamless, functional, and aesthetically pleasing result. With the crown in place, your smile is fully restored, and the implant functions just like a natural molar.
Follow-Up and Maintenance
Dr. Egan will provide follow-up care instructions to ensure your implant stays in excellent condition. Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential to maintaining the longevity of your dental implant.
At Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma, Dr. Jeremy Egan combines expertise and advanced techniques to ensure every implant placement is successful. This meticulous approach has made us one of Tulsa’s top providers for dental implants, restoring smiles and function for patients every day.
For implant process. X-ray and exam , then implant placement , then abutment and crown. Bone graft and gum graft may needed depending on the amount of bone and gum tissue available.
