What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants both restore the functionality of the tooth and provide a cosmetic solution that blends in with the appearance of natural teeth. The dental implant procedure generally takes several visits to the office over the course of a few months.

During the initial visit, the teeth are evaluated and X-rays are taken. Then, a specialized screw, the implant, is implanted in the jawbone. These are made of titanium, a substance with unique properties: Bone tissue can effectively grow around it, preparing to support a replacement tooth. This is called osseointegration and holds the implant solidly in the bone.

The timeline is a little different for everyone, but it often takes four to six months. Once healing is complete and the implant is fully integrated, it is ready to anchor the replacement tooth – which is installed during a separate visit.

At All Smiles Dentistry, we use “full-sized” implants that anchor replacement teeth right to the jawbone. This is a very successful treatment for people from all walks of life who may need tooth restoration. However, if you think you have a dental implant infection, call us today for a follow up!