The Dental Implant Procedure

An individual may choose to get dental implants for many reasons. For some, implants offer a better alternative than bridges or dentures that can easily slip out of place. Besides replacing missing teeth, dental implants also prevent bone loss by stimulating the jawbone. 

At Alencar Family Dentistry in Chesapeake, Virginia, Dr. Oliveira Filho specializes in dental implants and provides the most advanced and innovative solutions. Here are the steps included in the dental implant procedure:

Step by Step Process for Dental Implants

Initial Evaluation

At Alencar Family Dentistry, Dr. O will first conduct a comprehensive examination to evaluate the condition of your jawbone and overall oral and general health. The preliminary step includes taking X-rays, scans, and choosing the shade of your prosthetic tooth that will sit on top of the implant. Dr. O will also discuss your other medical conditions and medications.

Tooth Extraction

If the tooth that needs replacing is decayed or damaged, Dr. O will remove it before proceeding with the implant procedure. 

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting may become necessary when you do not have sufficient bone mass to support the implant. It includes a minor surgery during which bone is taken from another part of the body or the jawbone and placed at the missing tooth site. Time is given to heal completely, before inserting the implant post.

Placing the Dental Implant

A dental implant consists of a titanium post that is surgically embedded into the jawbone. During this step, the gum is cut and the implant is plugged into your jawbone. In due course, the tissues surrounding the jawbone will begin to grow around the implant. This process may take a couple of months, varying for every individual. 

Installing the Abutment

Once your implant has perfectly fused with the jawbone, our dentist, Dr. Jayme A. Oliveira will attach an abutment on top of the dental implant. This piece serves to connect the implant to the crown and holds it in position. The abutment can be placed at the same time as the implant since it has to be fixed in the gum.

Fitting the Crown

After your gums heal, the implant is covered with a color-matched crown that resembles your existing natural teeth. 

Once the entire dental implant procedure is complete, you will be able to eat and smile confidently.

If you are considering dental implants and want to know more about the dental implant procedure, visit Alencar Family Dentistry at 711 Greenbrier Pkwy Suite 101, Chesapeake, VA 23320 or call (757) 546-0301.