Dental implants are a permanent and appealing solution to replace missing or extracted teeth. They are better than other alternatives like bridges because no additional teeth need to be altered to place the new tooth and can help maintain alveolar bone.
The entire implant process is performed over the course of a few months. The first part of the process is to be evaluated by an oral surgeon, who will place the implant into the jawbone. An incision is made in the gum so that the implant can be inserted. Multiple implants can be placed at once if necessary. After the implants are placed the gums are sutured.
The implant must be allowed about 3-6 months to heal, and during this time the jawbone will form around the implant in a process called osseointegration. During this healing time you may or may not need a temporary crown(s) placed so that you can eat, speak normally and maintain a proper aesthetic appearance for your smile.
After the implant has healed, Dr. Kosek will place a custom abutment and crown on the implant(s). The abutment serves as the base for your new tooth. Once this is placed, an impression/scan of the abutment is taken and sent out to a lab who will create your permanent restoration. Once the restoration is completed you can return to the office to attach the restoration permanently. Your smile will look just like it used to, and after a short period of getting used to the implant it will feel just like one of your own teeth.