Dental implants are a great way to replace a troublesome or missing tooth. A dental implant restores your mouth to optimal function by stabilising the surrounding bone, tissue and teeth. This is done by substituting the root structure of the missing tooth. This helps to prevent further serious complications that can arise if the missing tooth is left untreated.
It usually requires multiple appointments to complete. Firstly, the site is prepared for placing the dental implant. Secondly, the implant body is placed into the bone along with a special healing cap. The area is then left to heal, providing a stable footing for the replacement tooth.
At subsequent visits, your doctor will monitor the healing process, until the tooth is ready for the final restoration. While healing, your doctor can provide a temporary tooth to fill the empty space. When the site is fully healed, the healing cap is removed and replaced with the abutment, which serves as the base of your new tooth.
Finally, the crown is placed over the abutment and secured in place. With your implant placement complete, your tooth is restored to optimal shape and function, while continuing to stabilise, protect, and preserve the surrounding teeth and tissue.