Dental Implant Procedure
Portland, OR
 For many Americans missing one or more teeth, it may be a relief to know there are many options available to you for the care of your oral health. If you have decided to have an implant, then there is exciting information about the process. Through the use of effective technology in the field of dentistry, we at have acquired the innovative method of rebuilding the bone inside your mouth so that the aftermath of your restorative surgery can be a toothsome grin that looks and feels just like the real thing!
Why We Recommend Dental Implants
The longer a hole is allowed to exist inside the mouth - regardless of how well it heals - the greater the risk that the jaw will start to resorb itself. This can cause pitting and grooves that, while not noticeable with a glance in the mirror, can be very damaging to the strength of the jawbone. Fortunately, it is quite possible to repair any recession with grafts that come very close to recreating the integrity of the former foundation. This paves the way for dental implants, which could not only return you to your former aesthetic glory but also benefit the tissue growing beside it.
What Happens During The Process
Generally, the procedure can take several months to finalize, as healing and bone development are essential to the procedure. After a comprehensive evaluation of x-rays and medical history proves there are no unnecessary complications, then the plan of action can be decided with the anticipation of yielding excellent results. Communicating your options is strongly recommended to help ensure that we understand any concerns you might have regarding your treatment.
After you are anesthetized, an incision is made in the gum to reveal the bone. Holes will usually be drilled deep into the jaw using a special tool that prepares the way for a sturdy titanium post, which will serve as your new root. A temporary denture can be placed for appearance if necessary, as there will still be a gap between your teeth. It will take a while, but in time, the artificial metal root should integrate with the cells surrounding it and may become every bit as durable as it was before.
An additional operation may be necessary to secure the abutment, which is the connector between the rod that holds the crown replacement firmly in the socket. There is a good chance that the abutment will be placed at the same time, however, because this is a very good way to eliminate the need for excess surgery. Avoiding an extra procedure is ideal for some patients, as it could cause unnecessary irritation that leads to infection. If you opt for two separate procedures, then recovery generally only takes a few weeks after the placement of the abutment. Once the jaw is fully healed, impressions are usually made of the mouth and the rest of the teeth. This allows for the development of an artificial crown that can more accurately match your original smile!
The majority of dental implants are quite successful. Keeping up with regular exams and practicing proper hygiene can aid you greatly in your recovery. If you have any questions regarding the process or would like to schedule an appointment, please call Malmquist Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at (503) 446-6776.
|
