Dental implants offer a permanent and aesthetically pleasing solution for replacing missing or extracted teeth. Unlike bridges, which require altering adjacent healthy teeth, implants stand independently, preserving the integrity of surrounding teeth.
Dental Implant Process
At South Fork Family Dentistry, the dental implant process is completed over a few months, ensuring a strong and lasting result. The first step involves placing the implant itself—a small titanium screw—into the jawbone. To do this, a small incision is made in the gum tissue, and multiple implants can be placed in one visit if needed. Once the implants are securely in place, the gums are sutured, and the healing process begins.
After the implants are placed, they need 3-6 months to heal, during which the jawbone will fuse with the implant in a process known as osseointegration. During this time, we can provide temporary crowns so you can eat, speak, and smile normally while your implant site heals, ensuring both comfort and an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
After the implant has healed it is time to place an abutment on the implant.
The abutment acts as the foundation for your new tooth. Once it’s placed, an impression of the abutment is taken to create your custom permanent restoration. Some offices, like South Fork Family Dentistry, have an onsite lab to craft the crown, while others may send it to an external lab. Once the restoration is ready, you’ll return to the office to have it permanently attached. Your new smile will blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, and after a brief adjustment period, the implant will feel just like one of your own teeth.
