How Long Does the Dental Implant Process Take?

When it comes to filling in gaps in your smile, dental implants hold the gold standard. They’re the only method that replaces missing teeth both above and below the gumline. This makes them astonishingly lifelike, comfortable, functional, and long-lasting. However, to achieve these advantages, getting dental implants requires a much different process than options like dentures or a dental bridge. Here’s what you can expect when it comes to how long it will take to rebuild your smile with dental implants in Brooklyn.

What’s the Process for Getting Dental Implants?

Unlike other tooth replacement options, getting dental implants is a multistep process. First, you’ll need to have a consultation with your dentist to ensure that you’re a good candidate for dental implants. Then you’ll be ready to schedule your implant surgery, where your dentist will make a small incision in the gums and place a small titanium post into your jawbone. Next, your mouth will need to heal for several months before having the abutment (a small connector piece) attached to the top of the post. After four to six months of healing on average, you’ll have your final restoration placed. Once your dentist ensures that your bite feels comfortable, you’ll be all set to enjoy your brand-new smile!

What Factors Affect the Dental Implant Process Timeline?

Just like how no two smiles are the same, the length of each patient’s dental implant process will depend on their unique circumstances. There are several factors that will influence your specific timeline, including:

• Preliminary treatments: Your mouth and jaw need to be in good shape before moving ahead with your dental implant process. Preliminary treatments such as fillings, gum disease therapy, and bone grafts can increase the length of your treatment.
• Number of dental implants needed: Dental implants can be used to replace any number of missing teeth. However, it will take longer for your mouth to heal after having four, five, or six implant posts surgically inserted into your jaw than if it were just one.
• Your oral hygiene routine: It’s imperative that you care for your implant properly once its been placed. Without regular and thorough oral hygiene, a buildup of plaque and bacteria can lead to infections that may threaten the success of your dental implant.  

Are Dental Implants Worth the Wait?

Missing teeth can take a huge toll on your quality of life, so replacing them over the course of a few months may sound like a very long time. Many patients wonder if they’re worth the extra time and effort. However, while dental implants may require a longer process, their benefits are well-worth the wait! They offer the most lifelike and comfortable results while restoring 80% biting force and preventing jawbone deterioration. What’s more, your dental implant can easily last you a lifetime with the proper care.

To see if this state-of-the-art treatment is right for you, schedule a consultation with your Brooklyn dentist today! They’ll be able to give you a personalized estimate of how soon you’ll be able to enjoy a complete, confident smile once again.  

About the Practice

At Ralph Avenue Dental Care, we’re proud to showcase the talents of our in-office periodontist Dr. Neil Finn. His advanced training and years of experience allow him to perform every step of your dental implant process right here in our office, so you don’t have to drive all over town to get the professional care you need. With high quality, custom-made restorations and a friendly dental team, we’ll make sure your dental implant process is as pleasant as possible! To learn more, feel free to contact us via our website or at (718) 531-0300.