Generally, the dental implant procedure consists of four steps: placing the implant, osseointegration, placing a temporary crown, and placing a permanent crown. This entire process from start to finish takes around 6-12 months and requires several follow-ups. Depending on the amount of bone intact at the implant site, it can take as little as 4 months.
Implant Surgery
Once your implant has been custom designed, it is ready to be placed in your jaw. If you need a bone graft, this will be performed under general anesthesia before the implant is placed.
If you do not need a bone graft, our dental surgeon will sedate you and give you some medication to make sure you are as comfortable as possible. Next, they will make an incision in your gum to expose the underlying bone, which is where the implant post will be placed.
Osseointegration
After the post is placed, it takes a couple of months for the jawbone to fuse to the implant. This process is known as osseointegration, and it helps give your implant a solid foundation for your new, artificial tooth. Once 3-6 months have passed, your implant will be strongly attached to the jawbone, preventing it from shifting.
Temporary or Permanent Crown
Once the implant is completely fused to your jawbone, our dental surgeon will place a crown. In some cases, you may receive a temporary crown until your custom, permanent crown is complete.
The permanent crown is specifically designed to fit within your bite and look natural. The color, size, and shape of the crown will fit seamlessly into your smile, blending in with your natural teeth. The result is a functional, natural appearance that will last for several years.
Want to Know More About Dental Implants? We Can Help
If you are considering dental implants and want to know more about the process, call Flatrock Family Dentistry today at (864) 756-5576 to schedule an appointment. Our experienced dentists will go over your implant options and create a treatment plan that will restore your smile. We are happy to serve patients from our office in Greenville, SC.