Dental implants have proven to be the most effective solution for missing or damaged teeth. However, many patients don’t know too much about them, which is why the staff at First Family Dentistry in Anchorage, AK, wants to explain what to expect. This treatment offers the only true long-term solution for cosmetic issues with your teeth, so read on to learn more.

First, a dentist will assess the area and look for causes of tooth loss if they aren’t apparent. They’ll then take X-rays to see what’s going on beneath your gums and examine your jawbone. Once they’ve determined you’re eligible for dental implants, they’ll schedule a surgery date.

Prior to surgery, the dentist will completely numb the area. They may also sedate you. Once the anesthesia takes effect, they will clear the area where the dental implant will go. This may require a tooth extraction and some small gum incisions. They will then drill into the gums all the way into the jawbone and insert a titanium rod into the jaw. This is the end of the first surgery.

Typically, it takes several months for the jawbone to graft around the implant. Once it has, the dentist will schedule another surgery to implant an abutment. They will make an incision into the gum if needed and secure a cap to the top of the implanted rod. This is how the final crown will be fixed into place. Once the abutment is secure, the surgery will be complete.

The gums require several weeks to heal around the abutment, and when this is complete, the implant is ready for a crown. If they haven’t already, the dentist will take a mold of where the dental implant is going and have a custom tooth made. These are usually made of porcelain, and, once ready, yours will be fixed to the abutment. Once it’s secure, the dental implant procedure will be complete. It’s important to still take care of the area and follow up with your dentist to ensure your mouth is healing properly.

If you’re interested in exploring the benefits of dental implants, turn to the staff at First Family Dentistry. They offer a variety of cosmetic dentistry solutions, as well as same-day crowns, and are committed to helping their patients maintain healthy smiles. Call (907) 562-2820 today to schedule an appointment, and visit their website to learn more about their services.