Dental implants are superior to removable dental prosthetics or fixed bridgework. Although everyone isn’t a candidate for dental implants, it’s an excellent choice for most patients who have good general and oral health.
Often patients need to visit 2 separate dental professionals to complete the entire treatment. However, I’ve received advanced training at the Misch Implant Institute and can do the entire procedure in my office.
Here’s a simple explanation of how the process works:
Step 1 – The Implant “Root.” Is Placed
I’ll place a titanium implant into the bone of the jaw to secure your future restoration. This implant acts as a replacement to your missing root. When an implant is placed, your bone needs time to fuse to the implant. This healing process often takes 4 to 6 months, and is called osseointegration. When I’m satisfied that the post stable enough to continue, we’ll move to the next phase of treatment.
Step 2 – The Abutment is Attached
Next, I’ll place an extension post, or abutment, that attaches to your secure implant. Think of it as a support structure to join the implant root to the new tooth or teeth we will make for you. At this step we’ll take an impression for your new crown and prepare a temporary crown to wear until your permanent one is ready to be placed.
Step 3 – The Final Restoration is Completed
After the crown is returned from the dental laboratory, it’s attached to the previously placed abutment. Your new restoration will look and function just like a natural tooth.
If you’re interested in dental implants and would like to learn more, please call our office at (828)631-3283 to schedule a complimentary consultation. You can also make an online appointment at davidmcguire.com
We wish your family a very happy and healthy holiday season!
David S. McGuire, DDS