Dental implants are the only tooth replacement that restores the entire tooth from the roots up. To do so, they require a special procedure that involves surgery and a healing process. Before you commit to this treatment, Dr. Pham wants you to know about the entire procedure, giving you confidence when it’s time to get your implants. Keep reading to see how dental implants work!
During your initial consultation, Dr. Pham will examine your smile, the number of teeth you’re missing, and the strength of your jawbone. Patients with weaker jaws or gum disease will need treatment before getting implants. It’s also important to maintain a good oral healthcare routine and avoid tobacco use. Once she decides that dental implants in Leesburg are right for you, we will schedule your surgery.
At your surgery, we will ensure that you’re numb and comfortable. We offer sedation options to give our patients a greater sense of relaxation. Then, we will create small incisions in the gum line to access the jawbone. After drilling small holes in the jaw, your dentist in Leesburg will place your dental implants. The number of surgical appointments it takes for placement will depend on how many implants you need. While this procedure may seem painful, patients who have implants relate the surgery to a simple tooth extraction. Then, you will begin your recovery.
Osseointegration is a process that allows the dental implants to become permanent parts of your body. Titanium is a biocompatible material that fuses to the jawbone to create a strong support. After at least 3 to 4 months of healing, we will be able to take the next step in your treatment by placing abutments. This is a connector that makes it possible for us to mount your custom-made restorations.
Once your implants have fully healed, and we’ve attached your abutments, all that’s left is to place your restorations. Our crowns, bridges, and dentures are custom-made—we take images and impressions of your smile once the implants are placed and use them to create your restorations. You’ll come into our office for your final appointment, where Dr. Pham will ensure that you’re happy with your restorations before placing them. Lastly, you can walk out of our office with a beautiful, strong, functional, and healthy set of teeth!