Dental Implants: A Permanent Tooth Replacement Option

Do you have a missing tooth? A dental implant may be just what you need. Dental implants are a safe and effective way to replace a tooth or multiple teeth. The dental implant is a titanium post placed in the area of the missing tooth. Once the decision is made to have the dental implant, there is a series of steps that follow.

  • Implant placement– the titanium post is placed in the proper area of the missing tooth. The surrounding jaw bone will heal and grow around the implant holding it in place. This process generally takes 3 to 6 months.
  • Impression for crown– Once the implant has healed in place, an area of the gum tissue is removed exposing the top of the implant. A silver healing cap is worn for about 2 weeks and then an impression is made of the area.
  • Seating the abutment and crown– A connector called an “abutment” attaches to the implant and allows the crown to be bonded or screwed in place. We work very closely with a lab to get the best results for you. The crown is designed to match the shape and size of your surrounding teeth.

As you can see, this process takes some time to complete. In the meantime, most patients choose to wear a temporary device also known as a “flipper” to act as replacements while the implant process is occurring.  For many of our patients, an implant is the best permanent restorative option.

Dr. Julie Pruneskiis the dentist and owner of Whispering Pines Dental in Lorain at 690 Cooper Foster Park Road.  To reserve an appointment with Dr. Pruneski, call 440-282-2023.  Dr. Julie Pruneski is a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, the Ohio Dental Association, the Lorain County Dental Society, and the American Academy of Facial Esthetics.

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