How Long Does A Dental Implant Procedure Take? – From Start to Finish

There are many reasons why people have a dental implant procedure and they often wonder how long it takes. While some need to replace missing teeth, others may simply be trying to retain their dentures. Sometimes, people get them in order to replace a tooth that has recently been extracted or never grew in. Some reasons a tooth may have needed an extraction include decay, infection, gum disease, or injury to a tooth. The length of an implant procedure varies from case to case depending on the type of implant and how many implants are being put in.

Step 1: Dental Exam

Before you can get started with any work, your dentist will schedule a comprehensive exam to check the health of your mouth. This may include x-rays and 3D scans. Even if your dentist is very familiar with your mouth, this step is imperative. During this time, the dentist will double-check that your gum and jaw health is sufficient to support implants. They will then develop a treatment plan for your situation and care.

Step 2: Implant Procedure

After the comprehensive exam is completed, your dentist will schedule surgery. The first step of the implant process is surgery. Your dentist will place a titanium screw in your jaw bone. The screw will be inserted right below the gums. This usually takes about 1-2 hours for each screw to be placed. So depending on how many implants you are getting in one sitting, will determine how long the dental implant procedure will take. After the healing period, most dentists will complete the final restoration of the tooth replacement. It may seem like it takes a long time to wait for your new teeth, but this is essential for ensuring that your implant procedure succeeds. The healing period allows the implant to integrate with your bone so that it can support your new crowns or bridges.

Step 3: Post-Procedure Recovery

Immediately after getting an implant, some people will experience swelling, bruising, or pain. This can depend on how much work your dentist needed to do in order to install the implant. Also, if a tooth must be removed for the procedure it will cause more discomfort. The time frame between having your implant surgery and when you get fitted for your crown is really important. The healing process takes around 90 days.

Step 4: Crown and Abutment Fitting

The final step after healing is to attach the abutment and crown. An abutment is a small shock absorber which cushions the implant from the permanent crown. In this step, your gums may need to be exposed so that you can get a proper fitting for your abutment and crown. Once the abutment is secured you are ready for a crown. The crown will be fitted and your dental implant procedure/process will be complete.

Conclusion

There are so many reasons why people get dental implants. Whatever your reason may be, consult our experienced dentist who will provide a thorough and comprehensive exam. They will guide you in the right direction and advise you accordingly. If you have any questions at all, schedule an appointment with us for more information.

Why Are My Teeth Sensitive? How Can I Treat Sensitive Teeth?

Sensitive teeth can make seemingly normal activities a complete pain. You may feel the pain while enjoying your favorite ice cream, enjoying ice-cold water on a summer day, or even when having hot soup. No matter the case, sensitivity is right there and ready to attack. Hot and cold are like stimuli for sensitive teeth. When the stimuli enter the mouth, you may feel a short pain in your teeth. Luckily there are explanations for this occurrence.

Reasons Why Your Teeth Could Be Sensitive

Here are some of the top causes of teeth sensitivity:

  1. Gum Recession
  2. Enamel Erosion 
  3. Cracked Tooth
  4. Receeding Gums 
  5. Exposure to Cold/Hot 
  6. Teeth Whitening Products
  7. Sinus Infection 
  8. Dental Procedures
  9. Gum Infection
  10. Grinding Jaw 

No matter your reason, there are things that can be done to combat sensitive teeth. Depending on your specific circumstance, your dentist may recommend various things.

How Can I Reduce/Treat Teeth Sensitivity

Here are a few different things a dentist may recommend to combat tooth sensitivity:

  • Flouride – Having a dentist apply flouride to sensitive teeth will help strengthen enamel. With tooth enamel stregthened, pain is reduced. Your dentist may also prescribe you floride you use at home.
  • Special Toothpaste – After consistent use of desensitising toothpaste, toothpaste for sensitive teeth, your condition will improve. These toothpastes can have the ability to block the pain that comes with sensitive teeth. The important thing is that you use it completely in place of regular toothpaste.
  • Gum Graft – In some cases, the tooth root loses gum tissue. If this happens, a gum graft can be put in place to protect exposed roots and directly reduce tooth sensitivity.
  • Bonding – Sometimes, exposed root can be treated by covering the tooth with resin bonding. This will act like a protection shield to the tooth.

Conclusion

There are many different ways to treat tooth sensitivity. Consult our experienced dentist who will advise you on the best treatment for your situation. If you have any questions at all, schedule an appointment with us for more information.