The Procedure | North Tabor Dental

Dental implants have proven to be the best and most successful choice for missing teeth replacement or restoration. They simulate natural teeth with all the functionality and beauty of a perfect smile. Now that you have chosen dental implants in Portland, OR you may be wondering about the dental implant procedure and what that entails. Below the dental implant process is illustrated in further detail for your consideration.

Dental Implant Parts

To understand how dental implants work, it is important to begin with the three parts that make a dental implant.

Implant Body: This is the titanium post that is installed into the jawbone.
Abutment: This part is attached to the top of the implant and retains the crown.
Crown: This is the final restoration that goes on top of the abutment.

Three Steps to Installling a Dental Implant

Now that you understand the three main parts of a dental implant, discussion of the dental implant procedure can commence. The dental implant procedure has three main steps however if a bone graft is needed there will be an additional step which will occur before the surgery:

Step One: Evaluation

During the first step, you will be welcomed into our office for a thorough exam. This will include an examination of your overall health and the area of the mouth that will receive the implant. Part of the exam includes a CT scan, and a thorough analysis of the jaw bone, gums, and adjacent teeth.

Step Two: Surgery

Many folks are most concerned with this part of the dental implant process; however, this portion is very straightforward and is completed in less time than it takes to perform a tooth extraction. The surgery begins with administering a local anesthetic, and lasts no longer than 15 minutes. Drilling will occur into the jaw bone to install the implant body and often, tooth extraction and implant placement can occur at the same time. In some cases, an incision is not needed to place the implant, which is known as “flapless – no incision” surgery. In such circumstances, the patient experiences minimal discomfort, little to no bleeding, and a faster healing and recovery process. Rest assured the pain associated with this procedure and recovery is minimal and well worth it.

Step Three: Final Restoration

After the implant surgery, there is a waiting period of 4-6 months before the final restoration is completed. This period is needed to allow the bone to adhere to the implant through a process called implant osseointegration. Generally, osseointegration takes 4-6 months depending on density of bone and overall health of the patient. During this time, you will have a temporary dental prosthetic in place of the final crown or bridge.

Dental Implants Change Lives

North Tabor Dental is passionate about the dental implant process, and our clinical results and level of expertise are second to none in the Portland Metro area. Don’t hesitate and schedule your appointment to start the dental implant process to revolutionize your smile today!