More than 178 million adults in the United States are missing at least one tooth. Now, to regain a complete smile, more than 500,000 dental implants are placed each year to fill the space because they last for a lifetime while offering a 95% success rate. Although they are well-known for being an effective form of tooth replacement, many remain hesitant to use them because it does require surgery. However, you have nothing to fear. At Dooley Dental, we understand that you have some questions about dental implants in Wall Township. To help ease your worries, we have everything you need to know about the process.
Schedule a Consultation
Generally, most people who have tooth loss are a candidate for the procedure; however, they are not right for everyone. You will need to schedule a consultation with your implant dentist in Wall Township to ensure you have healthy gums and adequate bone density to support the implant post. In addition, your risk for infection and inability to heal will need accessed. As a result, your medical history, use of medications, and lifestyle habits will be discussed.
See an Oral Surgeon for Implant Placement
If it is determined that you are a candidate, you will be referred to a trusted oral surgeon, who may recommend additional procedures prior to undergoing the first phase of the treatment, such as tooth extractions or bone grafting. Once you are ready to have the implant post placed, the oral surgeon will open the gum tissue to expose the jawbone. A tiny hole is drilled into it to allow the post to be placed. The gum tissue is closed and the healing process will begin.
Over the course of the next few weeks, your jawbone will fuse to the post through a process known as osseointegration. This allows the post to stay in place for a lifetime while providing a secure anchor for the replacement crown.
Have the Abutment Placed
If you are only having a single tooth replaced, you will need a second minor surgery after the jawbone has fused to the post. This is needed to attach an abutment to the post, which acts as a connector piece to hold the prosthetic tooth in place. The simple process involves opening the gum tissue to expose the post. Then, the abutment is attached and the gum tissue will heal around it.
Complete Your Smile
After the gum tissue has healed, you will return to Dooley Dental to undergo the final phase of treatment. A custom-made dental prosthetic is attached so you can walk out with a complete, confident smile. You may need a follow up appointment in a few weeks so Dr. Dooley can check the success of the restoration.
Get a Complete Smile Today
If you are ready to permanently fill the space of missing teeth, it is time to see if dental implants are right for you. Contact Dooley Dental today to schedule your consultation. We look forward to restoring your smile.
