It can be exciting to decide on implants, especially if you picture yourself with a natural and complete smile. You may not have had a tooth missing, damaged or decayed for a long time. It’s only natural that you want to get your new tooth as soon as possible.
If you are considering getting dental implants, whether in NYC or anywhere else, you will need to undergo a standard recovery process. The dental implant treatment takes about 3 to 6 month, but may take longer if you need a special procedure such as a bone graft.
What are Dental Implants?
The term “implant”, or post implant, is used to refer to an artificial root that replaces the root of a missing tooth. The prosthetic screw-like root is made of titanium and is typically shaped like a screw. The root is implanted surgically into the jawbone or gum.
The gums will then need to heal for a certain period of time before the new crown can be mounted. The implant post is actually a stable support for your new dental crown that will be mounted by your dentist at the end the implant procedure.
How long does it take to heal dental implants?
The healing time for dental implants in NYC varies depending on the patient. The time required for osseointegration (the healing of dental implants) depends largely on the following factors:
Need for a Sinus Lift: An upper jaw sinus lift is performed to add bone in the area around the molars and premolars.
Why bone grafting may be necessary: A bone graft is performed to provide enough bone height to allow the implant to fit snugly. The dentist may use artificial bone, or bone that has been taken from another part of the body such as your hip.
Bone Augmentation & Implant Healing
Your dentist’s recommendation for the type of implant procedure will determine whether you need a sinus lift and/or bone grafting. The two procedures are subperiosteal or endosteal. The implant is placed in the jawbone under anesthesia with endosteal surgery. The dentist may need to perform a sinus lift, or bone grafting in order to achieve sufficient height for the implant.
Subperiosteal implants are placed in the gum tissue, just above jawbone level. No bone grafting is required. The process may take several months due to the time needed for bone healing. The healing process can be prolonged by 3 to 6 months due to the bone grafting.
After the tooth root has been implanted, additional time will be needed to allow the implant to fuse to the bone. The titanium screw fuses with the bone, preventing the implant from shifting after the crown has been placed. Bone augmentation can extend the implant timeline by another 4 to six months.
Implant Osseointegration Timeline
Healing after implant surgery (osseointegration), can take between 3 and 6 months. You may feel discomfort immediately after the surgery. This includes pain, swelling and bruising. Symptoms may persist for 2 to 3 more days. This is not a cause for concern.
To manage swelling and pain, your oral surgeon might prescribe antibiotics and painkillers. The good news is that healing will begin and you’ll be able to enjoy your new smile within a few months.
The process of Osseointegration allows the dental implant to fuse with your jawbone. During the process, the jawbone grows and fuses with the surface the implant post. You can continue your normal life without major inconveniences.
In order to promote proper healing of the gums, it is recommended that patients stick to a diet consisting of soft foods for the first couple weeks. In some cases, the dentist will place a temporary dental crown. You will need to visit your dentist for follow-up appointments to ensure that everything is healing well.
Crowning and Abutment
The dentist will place the abutment after the healing process is completed. Connector rods are used to anchor the implant. The oral surgeon will open your gums to expose the implant, and then attach one or several connectors.
Healing takes 2 to 3 weeks after the abutment surgery. The dentist may bypass the procedure in some cases by placing the abutment along with the implant.
Once everything is in order, the customized replacement dental crown will be installed at your next appointment. The crowns are usually made of porcelain or ceramic, and they can be customized to match the color and bite of your natural teeth.
Your New Smile
Implants are just like your natural teeth in appearance, function, and feel. With them, you can laugh, smile, kiss, and talk with confidence. They also stimulate the growth of jawbones for stronger, healthier teeth. With good oral hygiene and regular professional dental examinations, implants can last up to 25 years. Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice daily is the best way to care for implants.
Marc Lazare, a trusted dentist in New York
Marc Lazare D.D.S. is a trusted and renowned dentist in New York City. He has performed dental implants for many patients in the US. He will perform a thorough oral examination and diagnostic tests to determine your specific needs. Our state-of the-art procedures and technology will ensure a safe and rapid recovery. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation with us, call (212) 861-2599.
