What Is a Dental Implant and What Does the Process of Getting One Involve?

by | Jul 1, 2019 | Dental Care

What Does Getting a Dental Implant Involve?

A dental implant in Lakeview is a type of restoration used to replace a missing tooth. It has three components: the implant, a connector called an abutment, and an artificial tooth. In many cases, the patient is replacing only one missing tooth, in which case he or she would get a crown. If the patient is replacing multiple missing teeth in a row, he or she can get a bridge or a denture.


The dental implant is an artificial tooth root. It looks like a screw and is made of titanium. The metal is biocompatible, which means the body won’t reject it. Even better, titanium can fuse with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. The implant’s presence will stimulate the body to produce more bone cells in the area to keep the jaw strong and healthy. A dental implant in Lakeview can last the rest of the patient’s life.


Before performing the procedure, the dentist will examine the patient and perform X-rays to make certain he or she is a good candidate for implants. Some patients may need to undergo other procedures such as bone grafts or gum surgery to prepare them for the implant.


During the procedure, the dentist will create a channel in the gum to reach the jawbone and place the implant. It will take around four months for the implant to wholly fuse with the jawbone. After it does, the dentist will place the abutment and crown on top of the implant. He or she will have the crown custom made so that it will look like a natural tooth.


What Are All-on-Four Dental Implants?

All-on-four dental implants are used to replace an entire arch of missing teeth. As the name suggests, the dentist will place four dental implants in the patient’s jaw. He or she will then place dentures over the implants and screw them into place.


Contact Art of Modern Dentistry today to learn more about getting a dental implant in Lakeview or visit our website.

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