A dental implant is a small titanium post placed surgically in the jawbone that acts as a replacement tooth root. Once the implant is in place, a dental crown is attached to the top to restore chewing function and appearance.
If you're considering getting a dental implant in El Dorado Hills, you might wonder what the procedure involves and what to expect. In this blog post, we'll explain everything you need to know.
The Dental Implant Procedure
So, what does the implant procedure involve? Here are the steps:
Consultation with Your Dentist
First, you'll meet with our dentist, who will evaluate whether you're an implant candidate. They will examine your mouth, take x-rays, and review your medical history to ensure the procedure is safe for you.
Implant Placement
If you're cleared for the procedure, the next step is placing the implant into your jawbone. Your dentist performs this step under local anesthesia to ensure you won't feel any pain.
Implant Healing
Once the implant is in place, you'll need to wait several months for it to fuse with your jawbone. This process is called osseointegration and it's during this time that the implant root becomes part of your dental anatomy. During healing, you'll wear a temporary crown or bridge to cover and protect the implant.
Abutment Placement
After the implant fuses with your jawbone, you'll return to your dentist to have an abutment placed on top of it. This is a small connector that attaches to the implant and holds the crown in place.
Crown Placement
The final step is to attach the crown to the abutment. The crown restores full chewing function and is designed to blend seamlessly with your smile.
A Tooth Replacement Worth Waiting For!
We know you're probably thinking—that sounds like many steps! But don't worry; the entire process can take several months, but each step is relatively quick and straightforward.
Plus, the end result is worth it because dental implants are durable, long-lasting, and look and feel just like your natural teeth.
Are You Ready for Dental Implants?
If you're missing a tooth and considering a dental implant, the team at El Dorado Dental can help you! Instead of searching for a dentist near me, call our El Dorado Hills, CA, dental office directly to schedule an appointment.