Guide to Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial teeth that take the place of natural teeth. They are made of titanium screws and crowns that are affixed to the jawbone, just like real teeth. The crowns can be made of porcelain or ceramic materials to resemble your natural teeth.

Dental implants replace missing teeth so you can eat, speak, and laugh with confidence again. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants don't slip or shift in the mouth while eating, talking, or laughing. Additionally, they don't need to be removed for cleaning. You can brush and floss them just like you would your natural teeth.

Implants are a good treatment option for most patients with healthy gums and bones to support them. They should care for them the same way you would care for your teeth with regular brushing, flossing, checkups, and cleanings.

How Are Dental Implants Placed?

Dental implants are surgically implanted into the jaw bone to take the place of missing teeth. The implant itself is a small titanium post that acts as a replacement tooth root, providing a strong and stable anchor for dental restorations to attach to. After the implant is placed, it typically takes three to four months for the jaw to heal and fuse with the dental implant, creating a stable base for crowns, bridges, or dentures to be secured to. In some cases, our dentist may recommend placing a temporary restoration on the dental implant during this healing period to protect the area until the permanent restoration can be attached. Once the implant has successfully healed, you can return to our office to have your permanent restoration attached to the implant. 

How Long Does Dental Implant Treatment Take?

Dental implants involve two phases of treatment, including an implant placement and restoration process. The procedure to place the implant takes about an hour and can be performed with sedation. In the second part of the procedure, a crown or fixed prosthetic tooth is attached to the implant. The length of this second phase will depend on the number of implants placed and whether any preliminary procedures are needed before the restorations can be placed. The number of appointments needed will vary based on the individual patient's needs. Our dentist in Sanford can evaluate each patient and determine a treatment plan that is right for their unique needs. For some patients, additional procedures such as bone grafting may be performed to ensure a successful outcome. 

If you want to learn more, schedule a consultation at Dental SPA by calling (407) 330-3601. You can also visit our dental office located at 205 Towne Center Blvd, Sanford, FL 32771, for all your dental concerns.