What is a Dental Implant ?
A dental implant is a surgical component that interfaces with the bone of the jaw or skull to support a dental prosthesis such as a crown, bridge, denture, facial prosthesis or to act as an orthodontic anchor.
How is this done ?
Generally speaking, two steps are involved:
Dental implant surgery– The dentist will insert a metal screw into the jaw bone. This screw (the implant) is inside the jaw-bone and is not visible. There is an abutment that is screwed onto it and it is the abutment that is visible. In the event that the work is being done in a visible area (like the smile line), the dentist will place a temporary covering on the abutment for esthetic purposes. The next step is the implant restoration.
Implant restoration – It takes time for the implant to take hold. This ranges from 3-9 months, depending on the individual’s healing rate. Once the implant is firmly set inside the jaw bone, the permanent crown is attached to the abutment. The crown’s material is constructed to match surrounding teeth.
Implant Preparation
Implant Placed
