Getting a dental implant restoration after losing a tooth is perhaps one of the best decisions individuals can make for their smiles. After the implant is placed inside the jaw, the next step is to fix a permanent artificial tooth over the implant. The final restoration will look relatively natural, thus making it difficult to tell the difference between the restoration and the natural teeth.
There is a time-lapse between the implant placement and the placement of the final restoration. This period is when the jaw is expected to heal around the implant. Once healed, the dental implant restoration can be placed.
After implant placement, the jaw goes through a process known as osseointegration, which basically means that the implanted titanium root is integrating with the bone. The bone will recognize the titanium as the new tooth root because it is a biocompatible material.
The implant will usually be protected with a temporary crown or a healing cap until the site heals fully enough to get the permanent dental implant restoration. Leaving the implant area uncovered might expose it to bacteria and food debris that might cause infection. Temporary prosthesis will be slightly smaller than the rest of the teeth since the implant cannot handle the weight of chewing yet. Its presence is just to avoid a gap in the smile.
The healing period depends on the patient. Some people heal quickly and will be ready to have their dental implant restoration in just a few months. However, for some, it may take six months or more. For those with preexisting conditions like diabetes that may inhibit fast healing, final crown placement may take a bit longer. It is only after the bone fuses with the implant that the restoration process can be complete.
So, the time that passes between the time of implant placement to the dental implant restoration depends on the following factors:
On average, it can take between three to six months of healing before a dental restoration can be attached to the implant site. The time may take longer if the tooth functions for heavy chewing.
Multiple appointments are necessary ahead of the permanent crown placement. During the visit, the dentist will examine the jawbone and gum to ensure proper healing. Impressions of the patient’s bite will be taken to produce the restoration. This ensures that the new crown fits and blends in with the rest of the teeth.
After the implant site heals and osseointegration process is complete, the permanent implant restoration will be attached via an abutment over the implant. Depending on the number of missing teeth and the patient’s preferences, a permanent crown that looks natural, a bridge or denture may be provided.
Between the impressions and the final production of the dental implant restoration, two weeks will elapse. Once the general dentist attaches the tooth prosthesis, you will have a brand new smile that should look natural and function without issues.
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