Dental implants are a straightforward procedure that lets you enjoy the normal pleasures of eating, talking, and smiling. Consisting of titanium roots and ceramic crowns, they provide a natural-looking solution to missing teeth. Dental implants are a remarkable solution for regaining a confident smile and optimal oral health.
But before you embark on this transformative journey, you’re likely pondering the same question many others have asked: “How long does it take to get dental implants?” This article will take you through the entire process, step by step, shedding light on the timeline and what to expect along the way.
What Makes Dental Implants Stand Out?
Dental implants are unrivaled in their ability to mimic natural teeth’ look, feel, and function. Unlike removable dentures, they won’t shift or slip, providing you with unwavering confidence in your everyday activities.
These implants fuse with your jawbone, which not only offers stability for your teeth but also helps maintain the health of your jaw. Without this stimulation, your jawbone can deteriorate, causing your face to appear sunken and aged.
The Dental Implants Timeline Unveiled
The dental implant process typically takes 5 to 8 months but can vary from patient to patient. The process can be faster for those getting full-mouth dentures because they receive a whole new set of teeth.
Evaluation and Consultation (Week 1)
Your journey begins with an initial consultation. Think of it as the first step towards a brighter, healthier smile. During this visit, your oral surgeon will evaluate your dental health and discuss your expectations. It’s like charting your course before setting sail.
Treatment Planning (Week 2-3)
Following your initial consultation, the dental team creates a treatment plan outlining how to perfect your smile. It’s similar to the way architects plot out a blueprint before building. Taking your final impressions and making crowns from them takes 2-3 weeks.
Tooth Extraction and Bone Grafting (Week 4-8)
This phase may extend the timeline if tooth extraction or bone grafting is necessary, like preparing a canvas before painting a masterpiece, ensuring a solid foundation is crucial.
Implant Placement (Week 8-12)
The implant is surgically placed into your jawbone, comparable to planting a seed. Just like trees take time to grow strong roots and become sturdy, so does the implant in your mouth before it can support an artificial tooth. It takes 8-12 weeks for an implant to integrate into the jaw bone and become ready for a crown.
Osseointegration (Week 12-16)
Dental implants fuse with your jawbone to create a stable base for new teeth. This process can take 12-16 weeks or longer, and it’s the unsung hero of dentures: without solid and healthy bone tissue underneath near your gums, there would be nowhere for artificial teeth or natural ones to attach.
Abutment Placement (Week 16-18)
An abutment is like the connector between your implant and the final tooth. It’s the bridge that unites two banks of a river. Once it’s in place, your smile is on its way to completion.
Final Restoration (Week 18-22)
The finishing touch! This step involves attaching the crown or prosthetic tooth to the abutment. It’s akin to placing the cherry on top of a beautifully crafted cake – the moment you’ve been waiting for.
What are the One Day or Same-Day Implants we see advertised?
Because of these factors, we have concluded that a dentist needs more time to complete both steps on the same day. Dentists who claim they can do one-day implants risk their patients by rushing this procedure and ignoring essential safety guidelines.
Or they are engaging in a misleading advertising tactic that we believe is deceptive. The number one cause of dental implants’ failure to integrate is movement. The most effective way of ensuring lasting results is to place the implant and let the body gradually accept it.
At Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Institute, we prioritize ensuring that all patients are treated with complete care and attention. Our experts in dental implants will ensure that you understand the procedure and provide informed consent. Our oral surgeons work hard to deliver successful implant procedures and care about your overall health.
Get Dental Implants in Los Angeles, CA, with OMSILA
At the Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Institute of Los Angeles, our oral surgeons and dental professionals are committed to providing you with high-quality treatment. Our office has invested heavily in state-of-the-art technology, robotics, and continuing education. This ensures that we provide the latest developments in treatment techniques, precise diagnoses, and accurate placement of dental implants.
So, are you ready to begin your journey to dental implants? To learn more about our services and schedule a consultation, please contact us today or visit the Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Institute in Los Angeles, CA. Your path to a brilliant smile awaits!
FAQs About Dental Implants
1. Does the dental implant procedure hurt?
During the dental implant procedure, local anesthesia is typically used to numb the area, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the surgery. After the procedure, some discomfort, swelling, and minor pain are common, but these can usually be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medications and typically subside within a few days to a week. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide guidance on pain management and what to expect in your specific case.
2. How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime when properly cared for. With good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, and avoiding habits like smoking, dental implants can endure for decades, providing a durable and stable solution for missing teeth. However, the longevity of dental implants can vary based on individual factors and maintenance.
3. Can anyone get dental implants?
Not everyone is a suitable candidate for dental implants, as eligibility depends on factors such as overall health, oral health, and bone density. Certain medical conditions, inadequate bone volume in the jaw, and unhealthy gum tissues can affect one’s eligibility.
A consultation with a dental professional is necessary to determine if dental implants are a viable option for an individual and to develop a personalized treatment plan if needed. Book a consultation with OMSI-LA’s dental professional today!
4. What are the advantages of dental implants over other tooth replacement options?
Dental implants offer several advantages over other tooth replacement options, such as dentures and bridges. They are more stable and provide better chewing and speaking functions since they are anchored in the jawbone. Additionally, dental implants can prevent bone loss in the jaw, provide a natural appearance, and do not require alterations to neighboring teeth, making them a durable and long-lasting choice for many patients.
5. Are there any age restrictions for dental implants?
There is generally no strict age limit for dental implants, as eligibility is primarily based on overall health and bone quality. Patients of various ages, including seniors, can be candidates for dental implants as long as they are in good health and have adequate bone density to support the implant. Your dentist or oral surgeon will assess your specific case to determine if dental implants are a suitable option, regardless of age.
