Dental implants are a permanent and appealing solution to replace missing or extracted teeth. They are better than other alternatives like bridges because no additional teeth need to be altered to place the new tooth.
The entire implant process is performed over the course of a few months. The first part of the process is to install the implant itself, where a special titanium screw is placed into the jaw bone. This procedure is typically performed by an Oral Surgeon or Periodontist. Multiple implants can be placed at once if necessary, and an entire arch of teeth can be delivered within 48 hours of implant placement. Please schedule an appointment with Dr. Trummer if you are interested in this "all on four" procedure.
Most implants require about 3-4 months to heal, and during this time bone will form intimately around the implant in a process called osseointegration. During this healing time you can have temporary solutions can be provided to help with esthetic or functional challenges.
After the implants are fully integrated, definitive restoration can begin. This process involves making of impressions and radiographs. Typically the case goes to an outside lab for fabrication and is ready for delivery within 3-4 weeks from the time of impressions.