If you’re considering dental implants to replace missing teeth, you’re not alone. Many people choose dental implants in Melbourne because they not only restore function but also improve the look of your smile. In fact, implant dentistry has become a standard practice in many general dental clinics across Australia in recent years. Those planning to undergo this treatment may wonder: how long does a dental implant procedure take? In this blog, we’ll walk you through each step of the dental implant procedure and the timeline so you’ll know exactly what to expect.
Individuals choose dental implants for a variety of reasons, all focused on improving the overall quality of their lives. A primary reason for choosing implants is to regain functionality. Missing teeth can cause problems with eating and speaking, and implants serve as a great solution. Plus, they improve appearance by closing gaps in smiles, which can boost confidence and self-esteem.
Implants also contribute to long-term oral health. When teeth are absent, the jawbone can start to weaken over time, potentially altering facial structure. Implants address this issue by stimulating the jawbone and mimicking the role of natural tooth roots.
This first appointment is to determine whether dental implants are the right choice for you. Your dentist will check the site of your missing teeth, and if everything looks good, they will suggest that you proceed with this treatment.
Depending on your needs, you may require some pre-treatment procedures. This could include bone grafting to strengthen your jaw, removing a tooth to make space for the implant, or smoothing the bone for better placement. If these surgeries are carried out before beginning the implant procedure, their recovery can take anywhere from three to twelve months.
About one to two weeks after your initial consultation or post-recovery from the pre-treatment surgeries, you’ll return to the clinic for the actual implant placement. During this session, your dentist will insert a titanium implant into your jawbone and gums. After the implant is secured in place, the area will be cleaned and stitched up, and then you’ll head home to let the site heal.
Healing is a crucial phase in getting dental implants. Initially, you’ll notice some healing within one to two weeks. However, your implant will need time to bond with your jawbone, a process known as “osseointegration.” This bonding can take anywhere from three to six months or even longer, depending on your situation.
While you’re healing, your dentist will start working on your custom implant restoration. You may need to come in for a few follow-up appointments, where impressions and images of your gums and teeth will be taken. These will be sent to a dental lab to create your personalised dental crown.
As you approach the end of your recovery, you’ll need to have an abutment placed; this is usually about one to two weeks before your final appointment. The abutment connects your implant to the final restoration. Your dentist will carefully expose the area, place the abutment, and then add a healing collar or temporary tooth to make sure your gums heal appropriately around it.
Finally, about one to two weeks after the abutment is in place, you’ll return for your last appointment. Your dentist will check the fit of your permanent restoration by removing the healing collar or temporary tooth. Then, they’ll securely bond the final implant-supported restoration into place.
By now, you must have got the answer to how long does a dental implant procedure take. However, it is important to know that the timeline for each step isn’t standard, and a patient may take less or more time than that mentioned based on their situation.
Ready for Implants? Talk to Us
If your missing teeth are bothering you and you wish to replace them with implants, it’s best to take action soon. Reach out to our Toorak dentist at Care Family Dental to discuss your oral health needs. During your initial appointment, our dentist will examine your missing tooth sockets and suggest if implants are an ideal solution for you. Call now.
