How Many Visits for a Dental Implant Restoration Procedure

Dental implants are a good choice if you have lost teeth and want to renew your smile. It is challenging to go through life with missing teeth. The spaces in your mouth can be embarrassing and even lead to oral health issues. Implants are a viable option if you have one missing tooth or are missing multiple teeth. You should be aware, however, that this process requires a couple of surgeries and months of recovery.

The benefits of dental implants

Implants are not the only way to restore smiles and replace teeth. Other options are available, but this one lasts longer than other treatments. People who commit to good oral hygiene and care can enjoy the effects of implants for up to 20 years or more. Implants include crowns, which are natural-looking in size, shape, and color. They are durable and strong, helping the individual to eat most foods. Having implants can also reduce the risk of suffering additional tooth loss or bone loss.

The first visit

A patient who is missing teeth may first be curious about dental implants and approach the dentist about starting this treatment. For other patients, the dentist may be the one to suggest the procedure. Either way, there will first be a consultation before beginning any work. Here, the dentist can explain more details about how the process works and what the results will be. The dentist can answer any questions and address worries the person may have. This is a good time for the dentist to assess whether it makes sense to pursue this treatment.

Preliminary steps

If both the patient and dentist feel it makes sense to get dental implants, there is some work that must first take place. The dentist will take X-rays of the person’s teeth and make impressions. These pictures and models will guide the dentist in making a treatment plan. It will also enable a technician to make the crowns. At this next visit, the dentist might identify existing teeth that have too much damage to remain in the mouth.

The first surgery

The third visit is when the person begins to get dental implants. The dentist numbs the person using a local anesthetic. Once the patient is comfortable, the dentist cuts into the gums and drives a screw-like titanium implant, or post, into the jaw. This object fuses with the bone, acting as the root and anchor for the entire implant. After closing the wound, the dentist sends the person home. There will be a period of a few months for the patient to heal.

Returning to the office

The patient will come back into the dentist’s office at least two more times. The first of these visits allows the dentist to place abutments on the posts. The next time, the patient gets the crown, completing the process of getting dental implants. Some patients may have an additional visit before starting the entire process. This happens when the person has poor bone growth and requires a graft.

Worth the wait

Most patients will make five trips into the dentist’s office before the process of getting dental implants is final. Though the procedure is long and can have a challenging recovery, the benefits are not difficult to see. If you are missing teeth, you can once again enjoy a nice smile. Call your dentist today if you are ready to explore this option.

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