If you’ve lost a tooth, you probably want to replace it. Not only can that unsightly gap in your smile be distracting, but it can also impact your speech and eating habits. But choosing the right option between a dental bridge or an implant can be daunting. Surely, you have questions. How long is the dental implant process? Why would you want to choose a dental implant over other restoration options? Get the answers to your burning questions about dental implants in Boca Raton here!
What is involved in the typical dental implant process?
For single dental implants, the process is fairly straightforward and follows this general outline:
- After your dentist in Boca Raton and you have decided to proceed with the dental implant, they surgically places a titanium screw into the missing tooth’s socket, stimulating bone growth in the jaw.
- Over the period of four to six months, as determined by your dentist, your bone grows around the screw, integrating it securely, just like a natural tooth.
- After the healing period has passed, the dentist places an abutment, which is the piece that connects the implant to the prosthetic tooth. While you heal from this step of the procedure, your custom prosthetic tooth is created at a dental lab.
- Finally, the dentist places the prosthetic tooth itself, restoring your tooth’s function, structure, and appearance.
From start to finish, the process can take as long as six to eight months.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Although the process of getting a dental implant may seem long, it is well worth the wait. Consider these advantages of choosing implants over other restoration options:
- Dental implants are durable and secure. Because the screw is bonded with the jaw bone, it is very strong and will not move, meaning that you can bite, chew, speak, and smile with complete confidence.
- Dental implants promote your oral health. Unlike bridges, implants do not involve the surrounding healthy teeth, helping you preserve them for longer.
- Dental implants mimic natural tooth structure. By stimulating growth in the jaw bone, your implant actually helps prevent bone density loss, which can make your facial structure sag and appear older over time.
- Dental implants feel and look natural. Because they copy teeth’s natural structure, dental implants help your bite feel about as natural as is possible with a prosthetic tooth.
- Dental implants may be best financial choice. Although they have a higher upfront cost, dental implants can last for 30 years or even longer with the proper maintenance. Dentures and bridges last much shorter and often require additional dental work. In the long term, implants could be the wiser investment.
Despite how long it takes and the few drawbacks of dental implants, they are still generally thought of as the best tooth replacement option out there. If you keep a long-term perspective, the pros drastically outweigh the cons. Make an appointment to consult with your dentist and determine whether dental implants are right for you.
About the Author
Dr. Steven Feit has been a prosthodontic specialist for over 30 years. He has lectured at prestigious international symposiums about his current research about the natural bite and how it relates to muscles and jaw joints. He and his staff are dedicated to exceeding their patients’ expectations in the dental care they provide. To contact him, you can call (561) 338-7535 or click here.