Dental Implant Procedure: The Permanent Solution for Missing Teeth

Normally, the dental implant treatment procedure involves two phases. In the first phase, your mouth and teeth are completely examined with the help of your dental and medical history, and then by a periodontist who specializes in gum disease (this can also be done by a surgeon who performs oral surgery). A CT scan and x-rays are produced to study your bone density and the shape of the jaw. The placement of the implant or of the artificial tooth depends on your health and the number of teeth. Phase two is the procedure itself. During the procedure, the patient is given a slight sedative before the surgery. When the sedative is doing its job the surgery begins.  An incision is made in the gums where the implant has to be placed. After this, the implant, made of titanium or titanium alloy, will be placed in the exposed jawbone. Titanium, being an inert metal, is considered to be the best choice for a dental implant as it is a well-accepted solution by the body as it fuses well into the jawbone without producing any side effects. At the end of the process, the wound will be closed for healing. After the placement, your gums and any debris will be prevented from entering the implant by the use of a cover screw. Three months is required for healing of the lower jaw placements and six months for upper jaw. After healing, another surgical procedure, will then uncover your implant.  If you are a person without any complications, this can be easily performed. However, if you have any health problems such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, gum disease or if you smoke, or use radiation therapy in the neck or head, your dental implant will have to be closely monitored during the healing process. Dr. Stephen A. Samson offers dental implants in Miami for patients who are missing one or more teeth.