There are many different reasons you could lose a tooth, be it from a sports injury, car accident, or even decay. When you’re missing teeth, the rest of your mouth is generally at a higher risk of developing additional problems. Dental implants in Tulsa, OK, are the most recommended replacement option for patients with missing teeth. They can help prevent shifting in your remaining teeth, the development of gum disease, and even facial sagging caused by bone density loss. While implants can seem intimidating, once you understand the process, you can seek the treatment you need with greater confidence.
The Process for Dental Implants in Tulsa, OK
For most patients, getting dental implants is a three-appointment process. However, some patients may need additional treatment before, during, and after an implant to ensure the treatment is a success. Because everyone is different, your dentist will create a personalized implant treatment plan designed specifically for your oral health.
Pre-Treatment
If you’re missing a tooth, you may not be able to jump right into getting an implant. In order for an implant to be successful, you need a strong jaw and healthy gums. Patients who suffer from bone density loss or gum disease will likely need additional treatment before getting an implant. Bone grafting can help restore jaw bone density to help ensure there’s enough bone for the implant to integrate with. And periodontal therapy can help clean and restore your gums to provide a safe and healthy base for your implant. Your dentist will examine your gums and take an x-ray of the missing tooth before treatment and may recommend additional work.
Implant Surgery
Once you’re cleared to get an implant, your dentist will then surgically place the implant post. This small titanium post is placed in your tooth’s socket and integrates with your jawbone. The post is designed to mimic the natural root structure of your tooth to provide additional security and support for your jaw. Integration and healing after surgery usually take between three and six months. You’ll have a few appointments with your dentist during this time to keep track of the progress and ensure there are no complications.
Abutment
Once the implant site is healed, you’ll need to go in for an abutment. The abutment fits into the implant and protrudes from your gums, much like the inner part of your tooth. Once your dentist places the abutment, they will then take impressions of your bite. They use these impressions to fashion the restoration needed to complete treatment.
Restoration
Once your permanent restoration is made, you’ll return for a final appointment to have it set. For single dental implants, the most common restoration is a dental crown. But if you’re missing multiple teeth, you may have a dental bridge or an implant-secured denture instead. Your dentist will apply the restoration to your abutment and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your bite is strong and comfortable.
Henrich Dental is a full-service dental implant office. We can usually provide all implant treatments, from surgery to restoration, right from the comfort of our Tulsa office. Call us today at (918) 262-4731 to schedule a consultation and learn more about implant dentistry.