Whether you’ve lost a tooth due to facial trauma, decay, or gum disease, there are options available to restore your beautiful smile. Dental implants are one of the most popular choices, due to their natural appearance and feel. There are many steps to the implant process, each of which is crucial to ensure a successful outcome. If you’re considering the procedure, here are a few things to expect.

What Does the Dental Implant Procedure Entail?

1. Removal of the Damaged Tooth

Damaged teeth can sometimes be preserved by root canals or fillings. If this isn’t possible, the tooth will need to be removed to make way for the dental implant. Tooth extractions require anesthesia to ensure the patient experiences as little discomfort as possible.

2. Bone Grafting

Not all patients need bone grafting to prepare for the implant. This procedure is performed when the underlying jaw tissue isn’t stable enough to hold the implant. Bone tissue is usually sourced from the patient’s chin or hip. After the procedure, you’ll need a few weeks to heal before moving onto the implant phase.

3. Placement of Implant

Dental implants are pieces of metal that are affixed directly into the jawbone. The implant and bone most fully fuse together, otherwise, patients may experience discomfort and the implant won’t perform its desired function. You may also receive a healing cap at this point. Once your oral surgeon determines the implant has fused to the jawbone, they’ll proceed to the next step.

4. Placement of the Abutment & Permanent Crown

The abutment provides a place for the final phase of the implant procedure, which is the placement of the permanent artificial tooth or crown. The abutment screws into the implant, then the artificial tooth is placed onto the abutment. Your oral surgeon will take a mold of your teeth to ensure the permanent crown is a good match. This can take a few weeks, so your dentist will place a temporary crown to protect the tooth until then. 

If you’re considering dental implant surgery, Oral Surgery Associates Of Alaska in Anchorage is here to lend assistance. Their team will guide you through every step of the process, making sure to explain each phase, so you feel at ease. Visit the website to learn more about the services they offer. To see if you’re a candidate for dental implants, call (907) 561-1430 to schedule a consultation today.