Dental Implants![]() The dental implant is made up of three parts. The implant itself is placed inside the jawbone. The abutment is secured into the implant and the crown is placed on top of the abutment. Implant ProcedureOur dentists will take an x-ray and have 3D images taken, along with models of the teeth so they can examine the teeth properly in preparation for the procedure. A dentist will talk the procedure over with you. Whether you’re having multiple dental implants or not, you will need multiple surgeries. The dentist will create a plan of your surgery dates, accommodated to your preferences. They will also talk to you about what type of anesthesia for the procedure will best suit your treatment. The actual procedure involves the drilling of a hole into the upper or lower jaw, in order to insert the implant. If the bone is not thick enough, a jawbone graft will have to be made to create a strong base for the implant. Once the implant is in place, several months will have to pass before the denture and abutment can be placed in, as the bone must grow around the implant to ensure the implant is properly attached. In this way, the implant becomes a proper root for your artificial tooth. A temporary denture will be provided. The abutment placement is a far more minor surgery, and involves the reopening of the gum to place the abutment in. The gum is then resealed around the abutment and a further two weeks must pass to allow the gum to heal. More impressions will be made of your oral cavity for the construction of your artificial tooth. One of our dentists can talk you through the different options available for your artificial tooth, as both removable and fixed false teeth are available. Implant BenefitsAs mentioned before, dental implants last longer than dental bridges or dentures by around 10 years. Dental implants change the structure and feel of your mouth less than dentures do. The amount of plastic involved in a denture, and the way they feel in the mouth, is less like a normal mouth. Dental implants feel normal in the mouth in comparison. Dental implants improve appearance, as they will fill any gaps in the smile, and are less distinguishable compared to other false teeth. Dental bridges can require the shaping and filing of neighboring teeth, whereas dental implants do not. San Francisco Dental Arts offers a range of different methods to restore your smile, contact us on 415-854-9396 and ask us about the range of artificial teeth placements we have on offer. No one should be embarrassed by their oral appearance and we can give you back the confidence you need. |