Dental Implant Restoration

How long does it take to get a dental implant?

Getting a dental implant takes multiple visits over several months. Initially, you schedule an evaluation to see if you’re a good candidate. Once you and your dental surgeon determine that an implant is right for you, the next step is dental implant surgery.

This surgery involves placing an implant into your jawbone in the approximate position as your original tooth’s root. The implant serves as a new root for your dental crown.

The implant normally takes 3-6 months to fuse into the surrounding bone. Then, it’s strong enough to support a crown. At this point, you return to Gateway Dental, and your dedicated dental surgeon fabricates an abutment and crown.

Are dental implants permanent?

Dental implants last a lifetime, but you need to follow good oral hygiene habits to prevent the surrounding bone and gum tissues from breaking down. In severe cases, this degradation can loosen your crown or implant.

Whether you have natural teeth or implants, practicing good hygiene is essential for a healthy mouth. These best practices help your implants stay in place and prevent your natural teeth from decaying, which reduces your chances of needing additional dental implants.

Am I a candidate for a dental implant?

If you’re in general good health and have sufficient bone structure, you’re a likely candidate for an implant. Whether you had a tooth pulled long ago, recently lost a tooth, or are planning to have a tooth removed, schedule a consultation with your dentist at Gateway Dental.

They help you create a timeline of the dental implant process to ensure it’s complete before you risk losing valuable tissue. Once gum and bone tissues start breaking down, you may no longer be a good candidate.

The longer you wait, the more irreplaceable tissues you stand to lose. If you don’t have adequate gum or bone structure left, Dr. Calabria or Dr. Ellis might recommend getting a bridge instead of an implant.

If you’re missing a tooth or want to find out if you’re a candidate for implants, make an appointment at Gateway Dental over the phone.