How Long Will It Take to Get Dental Implants?

Though dentists have used a variety of methods to replace patients’ missing teeth, dental implants offer some advantages. These artificial teeth use healthy existing bone in the jaw to provide stability and strength you will not find with other treatments. If you are ready to improve your mouth’s functions and appearance, call your dentist today and discuss the next steps you should take.

Patients who should consider implants

Getting artificial teeth is not a choice everyone should make. However, there are situations where it makes sense for a patient to replace severely damaged or missing teeth with dental implants. Before deciding, all patients should understand the benefits and drawbacks of this treatment. The person should also consult the dentist and make sure both parties are comfortable with this direction. The following are common scenarios when people choose this option:

• The patient is only missing one tooth or a few teeth
• The patient has damaged or missing teeth but a healthy jaw
• The patient is looking for a long-term, lasting solution
• The patient does not want removable artificial teeth such as dentures

Factors that lead to tooth loss

For a person to have good oral health, it is essential to have strong teeth and gums. Poor dental habits such as lack of brushing and flossing can compromise these aspects. Neglecting these practices can lead to decay and infections. In the most severe cases, the dentist may have to pull out the affected tooth, or the tooth may fall out on its own. Some people may lose a tooth due to a sudden blow to the face from an accident or injury.

What to expect when getting implants

The dental implants procedure occurs in multiple steps. First, the dentist will review the patient’s medical history and will extract any unsalvageable teeth. The staff will take X-rays and will make a mold of the person’s mouth and will send these to a lab. Here, a technician will custom-make the crown of the implant so that it matches the person’s remaining natural teeth in color and shape.

The next phases of the process can take several months. At a subsequent appointment, the dentist will numb the patient and will make an incision in the gums. The dentist then inserts screws into the jaw. Over the next several months, the patient will heal, and the jawbone will fuse to the screw. After recovering, the patient returns, and the dentist attaches an abutment to the screw, on which the artificial tooth, or crown, will sit. The dentist places the crown after a few more months of healing time.

Think about the time

Choosing the right tooth-replacement method is an important choice. Dental implants are natural-looking and can last more than 20 years. However, the patient should be prepared to wait up to eight or nine months to complete the entire process. Each appointment lasts around an hour, but the time for the jaw and gums to heal can be lengthy. If you feel this treatment is right for you, speak to your dentist and make an appointment to get started.

Are you considering getting implants in the St. George area? Get more information at https://www.aboutdentalcare.com.

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