When it comes to maintaining excellent oral health, regular visits to the dentist are crucial. But sometimes, even those who visit the dentist regularly can experience tooth loss or other dental issues. That’s where quality restorative dentistry comes in at AV Sierra Dental Center. Our restorative solutions include a variety of procedures that can help repair or replace damaged or missing teeth, including dentures and dental implants in Palmdale, CA.
So if you’re experiencing dental issues, don’t hesitate to speak to our qualified dental professionals about your restorative dentistry options. Dr. Jason Oh, Dr. Shanne Sastiel, Dr. Michael Tran, Dr. Catherine Vu, and our Orthodontist, Dr. Hanseen, can help improve your smile’s appearance and overall health and quality of life. Book an appointment today to get started. We can help you understand how long dental implants take, factors that may affect this timeframe, and what you can expect during the process.
The Dental Implant Gold Standard
Dental implants are often considered one of the best solutions for people with missing teeth. They are also considered the gold standard of restorative dentistry. They are metal or titanium posts surgically implanted into the jawbone, which serves as the base for replacement teeth. One of the most frequently asked questions about dental implants is how long the entire process takes.
Evaluation and Planning Phase
Before starting the implant process, you must undergo a comprehensive dental evaluation. During this phase, your dentist will examine your oral health, including identifying any underlying dental problems that must be resolved before proceeding with the implant procedure. The evaluation phase also involves taking X-rays and creating impressions of your mouth. Depending on the extent of these evaluations, this phase may take 2-3 weeks.
Implant Placement Procedure
The implant placement procedure begins once we complete the evaluation and planning phase. This procedure typically involves surgically placing the implant post into your jawbone, where your natural tooth root is located. The process uses local anesthesia to numb the area. The procedure may take 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity of your case.
Osseointegration Phase
After we implant the post successfully, the implants must fuse with the surrounding bone. Osseointegration is the process where the bone fuses with the base, which takes several months.
During this phase, the bone around the implant post will gradually grow and connect with the implant, giving it the support it needs to hold a replacement tooth. The osseointegration phase usually takes 3-6 months, depending on the patient’s age and overall health.
Placing the Abutment and Crown
Once you complete the osseointegration phase, your dentist will attach the abutment, a connecting piece connecting the implant post to your replacement tooth. Your dentist will then take impressions of your mouth to make a custom-made replacement tooth. The final step involves attaching the crown to the abutment, which is screwed or cemented over it. The final phase usually takes 2-4 weeks, depending on the type of teeth replacement chosen.
Recovery Time
After the crown is attached, you may experience some soreness or discomfort that can last a few weeks. You may have to avoid certain foods or habits, such as smoking or consuming alcohol, to ensure the healing process is not delayed. You may also need to attend follow-up visits to ensure the implant process is successful.
Dental Implants in Palmdale, CA
The dental implant process takes several months and requires your patience and commitment for success. Each phase plays a vital role in achieving optimal results with your dental implant treatment. Age, oral health, and medical conditions can affect how long the entire process may take. Many patients love dental implants for their natural look, lasting quality, and restored functionality. Always discuss your treatment options with your dentist to understand what to expect in advance. Working with an experienced and professional dentist can make all the difference if you are considering dental implants. AV Sierra Dental Center specializes in dental implant procedures and can help address your questions and concerns related to the process. Contact us today, and we’ll assist you in achieving your best dental health.
