Understanding the Implant Placement Process

Dental implants are today’s top choice for anyone who needs to replace missing teeth. If you’re considering dental implants in Murrieta, it’s important to understand the process involved in placing them and what you can expect from start to finish.

You’ll find that getting dental implants offers one of the best returns on investment for anyone who needs to rehabilitate their smile!

Dental Implant Step-by-Step Process

The process of placing a dental implant typically involves several steps, including diagnostic visits, digital imaging, surgical placement of the implant, allowing the implant to integrate with your jawbone, and the final restoration of the implant with a crown or bridge.

If you’ve already completed an initial exam and quality for dental implants, here’s what you can expect when you’re ready to schedule the treatment:

Surgical Placement of the Implant

The first step in the implant placement process is the surgical placement of the implant itself. During this procedure, a small titanium post is placed into the jawbone where the missing tooth used to be. This post serves as the foundation for the new tooth and is designed to fuse with the surrounding bone over time. Dr. Pulsipher can usually install the implant using only a small amount of local anesthetic; it’s a relatively minimally-invasive procedure.

Allowing the Dental Implant to Integrate

After the implant is placed, it’s important to allow time for it to integrate with the surrounding bone. This process, known as osseointegration, typically takes anywhere from 3-6 months for most patients. During this time, the implant will become fused with the surrounding bone, creating a strong and stable foundation for the new tooth. Once your implant is fully integrated, it becomes a permanent part of your smile and can support the normal biting pressure of an anatomical tooth.

Final Restoration of the Dental Implant

Once the implant has fully integrated with the surrounding bone, the final step in the process is to attach the restoration to the top of your implant. Depending on how many implants you’re receiving, a crown or bridge is the most common. The prosthesis is custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and natural-looking result.

How Long Does the Dental Implant Process Take?

The length of the implant process can vary depending on a number of factors, including the number of teeth being replaced, the location of the implant, and your overall oral health. In general, the process can take about six months, from start to finish, to complete.

The Surgical Process of How a Dental Implant is Placed

Dental implant installation is typically considered a minimally invasive procedure. Most people say that it’s easier to get dental implants than to have a tooth removed. That’s because only a small incision is made in your gum tissues, and the underlying bone does not have any pain receptors.

Thanks to the discrete installation process, getting a dental implant is less invasive than having a bridge installed, making it better for your smile overall.

Other Things to Keep in Mind

For some individuals, adjunctive services are needed to ensure the success of their implant treatment. For example, if you have extensive bone loss, you may need a graft or sinus lift before there is adequate support for a dental implant. Dr. Pulsipher will evaluate each patient on a case-by-case basis to determine the best plan of care for their smile.

Dental Implants in Murrieta

If you’re considering dental implants, it’s important to choose an experienced implant dentist who can guide you through the process and provide high-quality care. Dr. Daniel B. Pulsipher at Springs Dental in Murrieta has years of experience in placing dental implants and is committed to helping his patients achieve beautiful, healthy smiles.

To learn more about the dental implant process or for a complimentary treatment plan and financing options, contact Springs Dental in Murrieta today!