The Dental Implant Process

In dentistry, saving a tooth is almost always the best possible outcome. However, this isn't always possible, and some patients find themselves with one or more missing teeth. Not only can this affect eating and speaking, but the absence of a tooth can cause other teeth to shift or even lead to bone loss in the jaw over time.

Dental implants provide an effective solution for these patients. We encourage patients with missing teeth to seek out a consultation with a periodontist or dental surgeon to determine whether implants could be the right choice for them. The process will start with a careful evaluation that includes the latest imaging technology.

From there, the surgeon will use a variety of tools to carry out the implant surgery. 3D printed guides derived from scans of the patient's teeth and jaw can be used to ensure the best possible positioning for the implant.

The implant itself is a titanium post with a screw-like base that is embedded in the jaw, with the top sticking up into the mouth to serve as a base for a crown or bridge. As the bone heals, it does so around the implant, providing an incredibly strong base that will allow for very natural eating and speaking.

In some cases, additional preparation is needed before the surgery. Patients could require a bone graft to increase the depth or width of the jawbone to support the implant.

Crowns and Bridges for Dental Implants

Once the implant surgery is complete, the patient wears a temporary cap until the area heals completely. At that point, they can have the appropriate crown or bridge attached to the implant base.

There are many options available for dental implant crowns, and the quality can vary. Dr. Behdad and the team at Dental Square provide high-quality crowns for dental implant patients.

We custom-design porcelain and ceramic crowns that match your natural teeth in both shape and shade. This will provide you with the most natural-looking smile possible while also giving you the strength and resilience you need in a tooth replacement.

While dental implants are good for a lifetime, the crowns themselves last 10 to 15 years. We provide high-quality replacements for any crowns that have become worn, damaged, or otherwise need to be replaced.