Dental implant procedure is a permanent tooth replacement process that uses thin, biocompatible titanium posts to replace the lost tooth root. These tooth implants look, feel, and function like real teeth. Many Medina patients who have decided they want an alternative to dentures or bridges are extremely happy with the quality of life they receive from dental implants.
The Steps of the Dental Implant Process in Medina OH
The first step is scheduling a dental implant evaluation with your Medina prosthodontist, Dr. Sanjay Karunagaran. It's essential to determine your candidacy for implants and to go over your dental alternatives before we make a decision. We start with a comprehensive dental exam where we take impressions of your teeth through digital x-rays and 3-D imaging. Through these impressions, we can make 3-D models of your teeth and jaw bone.
During your comprehensive examination, we will go over your medical history and review any medical conditions and medications you take. We'll want to know about any heart conditions or other health conditions. Dr. Karunagaran may prescribe antibiotics prior to your implant surgery to avoid infection.
If your Medina dentist determines that you are a good candidate for dental implantation, we will assess your treatment plan, including which teeth and how many need to be restored, and your aftercare. We will go over the sedation you will receive so that you feel zero discomfort or pain throughout the procedure.
The procedure itself should not take very long, Dr. Karunagaran will insert the dental implants into your jaw bone and make sure that they are firmly placed.
The Dental Implant Healing Process
While the dental implant surgery itself doesn't take very long, the healing process can take several months. During this time, the implant will become one with the jaw bone, replacing your tooth root and anchoring your bone. This process is known as osseointegration, and it provides a solid foundation for your new artificial tooth. Once you have fully healed and the dental implant is firmly entrenched, Dr. Karunagaran can place the abutment—the hardware that the dental crown will attach to. The dental crown is the visible portion of the implant, and will be sized, shaped, and shaded to blend in with your smile.
Learn More About Dental Implants
Are you interested in learning more about your tooth replacement options? Give Frontier Dental a call today to schedule a dental appointment.