If you’re missing any teeth, you may consider replacing them with dental implants. A dental implant is a durable false tooth that consists of a small titanium rod that fuses with a patient’s jawbone. Once the rod has thoroughly fused with the jawbone, a crown covers it. The result is a false tooth that looks and functions like a natural one.
You may have several questions if this is a treatment option you’re considering. For example, perhaps you would like to know if you can get a dental implant in a single day.
The short answer to your question is “no.” As the following overview will explain, the process of receiving a dental implant can take several months. However, in the long run, patients often find the results justify the somewhat lengthy treatment time.
Additionally, although traditional dental implants can’t be done in a single day, an alternative option could involve only a single dental visit. Keep reading to learn more.
How Long Does it Take to Get Dental Implants?
The total length of the dental implant treatment process can vary somewhat from one patient to another. Your dentist can help you better understand how long treatment is likely to take in your case.
The process typically involves the following steps:
- Consulting with your dentist to determine if you’re a good candidate for dental implants based on your jawbone strength, overall health, and needs
- Installing the titanium rod
- Waiting several weeks or months for the rod to heal and fuse with the jawbone
- Installing an abutment that connects the titanium rod to the crown
- Installing the crown and scheduling follow-up appointments to ensure the treatment has been successful
The process may involve extra steps in some circumstances. For example, a patient’s jawbone might not be strong enough to support a dental implant. That doesn’t always mean they will never be a candidate for this treatment option. Bone grafting is a process which involves grafting new bone tissue onto a patient’s jawbone so that it can support an implant. If a patient undergoes bone grafting, the process of dental implant treatment will take longer than usual.
The Benefits of Dental Implants
According to a study in Clinical Implant Dentistry and Related Research, it’s not uncommon for dental implants to remain in good condition for 15 years or more with proper care. That’s just one of the benefits this treatment option offers. Other benefits include:
- Restoring a patient’s smile in a way that looks natural
- Allowing a patient to more easily chew and talk once again
- Guarding against bone loss and other such oral health problems
Advantages such as these are among the many reasons patients often feel going through the process of receiving dental implants is worth the time investment. However, in some instances, patients may be candidates for a speedier treatment option.
What You Need to Know About Full Arch with Only Four Implants Treatment
As the name implies, the Full Arch with Only Four Implants treatment option involves replacing a patient’s full upper or lower arch of teeth. Unlike traditional dental implant treatment, a patient can usually complete this treatment in a single visit. It’s an option you might consider if you’re missing most or all of the teeth in one of your arches.
Dental Implants: Worth the Wait
A patient who is only missing a small number of teeth might not be a candidate for Full Arch with Only Four implants treatment. While this does mean they can’t receive their dental implants in a single day, it’s worth remembering that the long-term benefits dental implants offer are significant. Discuss this option with a dentist to find out if implants are right for you.
Learn More About Dental Implants in Brunswick, OH
At Bellissimi Dental, in Brunswick, OH, we’d be happy to answer your questions about dental implants. Get started today by contacting us online or calling us at 330-741-3334 to request an appointment.