Dental Implant Surgery-The Implantation Phase
Because dental implant surgery is a very advanced procedure that requires a great deal of care and planning in the beginning, the dentist begins taking x-rays of the jaw bone. This will tell him or her immediately if there is enough bone mass to support a titanium implant. If there is, the dentist will then make a scale model of the patient’s existing teeth to determine the correct size and best placement options for the implants. If there has already been bone deterioration, or the gums are diseased, the dentist will have to perform LANAP on the gums first, or place a bone tissue graft on the jaw itself.
The actual implant is a simple structure made out of a Titanium-based alloy called Tivolloy. It is non-corrosive and has a bottom shaped like a screw. The dentist will twist this implant into the jawbone until it seats while the patient is anesthetized to a reasonable level of comfort. This implant will ultimately become the equivalent of a new tooth root as the bone grows around. This process of bone adaptation is called osseointegration and can last anywhere from three months to six months in time. During this period, a series of post-operative treatment steps will have to be rigorously observed to maintain proper hygiene around the implant area. Sometimes the dentist will place a temporary crown over the implant after surgery to prevent infection and minimize the risk of complication.
We cannot emphasize enough the importance of this healing period to the ultimate success of dental implant surgery.
Once osseointegration is complete, the next step in dental implantation follows. This step is known as the restorative phase and involves covering the Titanium implant placed during surgery with another, smaller screw called an abutment. This abutment is in turn covered with a porcelain crown that forms the surface of a brand new, artificial tooth that works and looks just like a natural one.
The Cosmetic Dentistry Center is unique among dental facilities in that we routinely perform dental implant surgery and the restorative phase of implant dentistry here in the same office. The convenience and comfort of working with the same dentist during the entire process is something that many people normally hesitant to seek out dental surgery find very comfortable and convenient.
More information on this subject can be obtained in any of the following articles:
Dental Implants
Titanium Dental Implants
Dental Tooth Implants
Dentures Dental Implants
Dental Implant Procedures
Postoperative Instructions for Dental Implants
We work with clients throughout the Houston area, including executives and busy professionals from outlying areas like League City, Katy, Richmond/Rosenberg, Cypress, The Woodlands, and Baytown. Call us now toll free at 888-790-0309 to schedule an appointment.
Labels: cosmetic dental implants, Dental Implants, implant dentistry, titanium dental implants, tivolloy
