Dental implants are one of the most popular types of prosthetic teeth, and for good reason! Dental implants look beautiful, are relatively easy to maintain, and function like natural teeth.

If you’re interested in installing a dental implant in your mouth, the professionals at Weston Dental can help. When you visit your dentist in Avon, OH, we’ll be happy to answer your questions and recommend a type of prosthetic tooth that works for you.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth that can fill a gap in your mouth when you’ve lost a permanent tooth. Dental implants are inserted into the jaw to keep the tooth in place. This is very similar to the way that your real work, with a root that sits in the jaw to hold the teeth in place.

How is a dental implant installed?

The dental implant installation process takes place over several visits to the dentist. If your jaw isn’t sufficient to hold an implant in place, then the dentist will go through a bone grafting procedure first. Then, once the jaw is ready, you’ll be ready for the series of procedures to install the implant.

During the surgery, your dentist will cut open the gums and expose the jaw, then they’ll drill a hole in your jaw where the post will be inserted. The area will be allowed to heal for a while before the next step, the placement of the abutment. This is the part that holds the dental crown in place. Once the abutment is placed and the area has healed, then your dentist can place the crown on the implant.

How many visits with the dentist does it take to install an implant?

Depending on the health of your jaw and other factors, you may need to visit the dentist three to five times for dental implant installation.

How are dental implants maintained?

To maintain your dental implants, you’ll brush your teeth twice per day with non-abrasive toothpaste. Your dentist may also have you floss. Talk to your dentist about flossing to ensure that you’re doing it correctly around the implant.

Have Questions? Call Today

If you have questions about dental implants in Avon, OH, call your dental professional at Weston Dental. We’re here to help.