The Dental Implant Process

implant-processDental implants in Boston are far and away the most popular option to replace missing teeth because they have huge advantages over dentures. Implants don’t require the high maintenance dentures do (like creams, regular fittings, and special cleaning requirements), they last as long as you do, and they look, feel, and function just like natural teeth. So how do you get dental implants? Let’s take a look at the process.

Initial examination

When you first come to Dental Partners of Boston, we’ll look at the sites of your missing teeth and examine them to ensure that your gums, surrounding teeth, and jaw bone are healthy enough to receive implants. You’ll usually need an x-ray so we can see the shape and density of the jawbone in the area. These scans also help us place the implant in the right spot to ensure a proper bite.

Preparation

If we have concerns about the odds of implant success, you might need to go through a period of preparation before an implant is placed. This may mean bone grafts to strengthen the jaw or periodontal treatment to reduce the chance of infection or implant rejection.

Surgery

Once you have the green light, you’ll schedule time to have the implant placed. The implant itself is made of a titanium screw topped with an abutment and crown. Your implant will be inserted into your jawbone, which will be encouraged to grow around it and fix it in place. The screw is inserted first, then the abutment is added, and then the crown tops off the implant to make it look just like a real tooth.

Post-surgery

After surgery, there’s a healing period of a few days during which you’ll notice some swelling and pain at the implant site. Depending on your pain tolerance and the advice of your doctor, you may receive pain medication. The osseointegration process will continue for the next few months; once it’s finished, your implant is ready to stay with you for life.

The implant process can be long, but after it’s finished we promise you’ll be happy with the way your new tooth looks. The best part about an implant is the fact that no one, aside from a dentist, can tell that it’s not real. And as long as you brush and floss regularly, your implant will last as long as you do.

If you have any more questions about the process, please contact Dental Partners of Boston today. We’re more than happy to answer your questions about the most advanced modern tooth replacement option in the world.

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