Getting dental implants takes several months, but success rates for this procedure tend to be high. This is because dental implants are a more permanent solution than dentures, dental crowns, and bridges. Your chances of success improve when working with a professional dentist who has years of experience conducting this procedure. Maintaining your oral health and hygiene throughout the process is also key to success. If you’re a good candidate, you can enjoy a more natural-looking smile after receiving your dental implants in Ann Arbor.
Understanding Your Dental Implants: Process & Healing
For the best outcome, getting dental implants is a multi-stage process that takes time. The most significant part of the journey is having your dentist surgically implant a small titanium post into your jawbone. Much of the time involved in the process is taken up by the healing period as the post integrates with your jawbone. This process is known as the “osseointegration phase” and can take several months to establish a strong foundation.
You must maintain good oral health while the implant fuses with your jawbone. If your mouth becomes infected, it could prevent your jawbone from accepting the titanium post, leading to implant failure. You can help prevent infection by following the proven oral health practices recommended by your dentist for a positive outcome with your dental implants.
If you successfully heal, your dentist proceeds to the next step in the process. They’ll attach the abutment and custom-made crown to the titanium post. It’s typically done in one appointment and usually takes one to two hours in most cases. You can expect another couple of weeks for your gums around the abutment to heal. During this time, you must continue to practice good oral hygiene to keep your gum tissue around the implant free from inflammation or infection.
Dental Implants: Why Expert Care Matters for Long-Term Success
While dental implants have a high success rate, the implant post might not properly fuse with a patient’s jawbone. In these cases of “failed osseointegration,” the dentist usually removes the implant to promote proper healing. Once healed, a dentist could choose to attempt to reposition the implant or offer alternative tooth replacement solutions. These typically include dental bridges or dentures. Because dental implants are a significant procedure that requires an investment of time, it’s best to work with a qualified and experienced dentist in your area.
Trusted Consultation & Dental Implants from AH Dentistry
Are you looking for a dentist with experience providing dental implants in Ann Arbor, MI, Ypsilanti, MI, or Dexter, MI? At AH Dentistry, we’ve been providing top-quality general, family, and cosmetic dentistry since 2006. During that time, we’ve performed many successful dental implant procedures. We can help you, too, and it all starts with a consultation. Our professional team is highly trained, compassionate, and dedicated to restoring your desired smile through our exceptional dental services. Call (734) 222-9140 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.