How Much Time Is Needed To Undergo A Dental Implant Procedure?
Anyone will tell you that a dental implant in Richmond isn’t a quick-fix solution to missing teeth replacement, so if time isn’t on your side then you might be better off seeking out other forms of tooth restoration. That said, once the implant treatment is completed it has many advantages over its counterparts. Given this, a patient might well consider the ‘all good things come to those who wait’ philosophy. But just how long do you need to wait?
The good news is that the surgical procedure itself is over relatively quickly with a single dental implant taking about an hour under a local anaesthetic. However it’s the recovery factor that takes time. When we use the word ‘recovery’ in dental implant terms, we don’t mean ‘recovery’ from the surgery. Instead we’re talking about the time needed for the surrounding bone tissue to fuse with the titanium-based implant. This is what gives the implant its super-strong capabilities. This can take around 2-3 months in the lower jaw and 3-4 months in the upper jaw. During this time your dentist should be able to provide a temporary tooth so that you’re not left with a gap.
Once the bone tissue has fused with the implant in a process known as osseointegration the implant is uncovered from beneath the gum line and the abutment fitted. Again some time might be needed (usually 3 or 4 weeks) before the final crown can be fitted.
One final thing…
If a patient doesn’t have sufficient bone due to bone loss, then prior to any implants being placed they may have to undergo bone grafting surgery. This is a common procedure that every implant dentist will carry out. However the patient will have to wait for the new bone tissue to grow onto the existing area before any implants can be placed. This can take a further 6-12 weeks depending upon the healing capabilities of the individual.
In total the implant procedure can take somewhere between 3-9 months depending upon the needs of the patient.
What if you really can’t wait that long – Is there an alternative?
Here at Sheen Dental we also offer a treatment known as ‘Teeth In A Day’. As the name suggests, failing teeth are removed (if required), implants are placed, and full arches or bridges of teeth are fitted; all in one day without the need for any temporary teeth. If this is a preferred option our team are more than happy to discuss whether they’re suitable for you.
To find out more about dental implants in Richmond why not book yourself a free, no-obligation consultation with Dr Harmit Kalsi and the team. To book yours either do so via our website at www.sheendentalimplants.co.uk or alternatively contact us directly on 020 8876 5277.