The Dental Implant Process in Turlock, CA
Learn the steps behind getting dental implants at Eggleston Dental Care.
The Dental Implant Process
4 Steps to a Beautiful Smile
When you choose dental implants to restore missing teeth, you’re investing in long-term success for both your smile and health. The entire process involves two painless surgeries, followed by a healing period that can take one to three months. By educating yourself about the implant process, you’ll instill peace of mind in yourself and Dr. Eggleston.
1. Your Consultation
The first step toward a fully revitalized smile is your consultation with Dr. Eggleston. During this time, he’ll take the time to learn about you, your lifestyle, and what you hope to gain from treatment—besides a beautiful new smile of course.
After the initial examination, Dr. Eggleston will decide if you’re the ideal candidate for implants. If so, he’ll elaborate on each step in the process—ensuring that you’re both on the same page.
2. Placing the Fixture
Once Dr. Eggleston clears you for treatment, you’ll return to our office for the first minor surgery. After preparing the surgical site, he’ll place the bottom part of the implant directly in your jawbone. Dental implants require the support of sufficient jawbone mass to be successful.
After securing the fixture, which acts as the root of your natural teeth, Dr. Eggleston will cover it with a temporary crown. This extra protection ensures proper healing without sacrificing your ability to bite and chew.
3. Recovery & Osseointegration
Giving your mouth time to heal is essential for the recovery and ultimate success of the implant. Dr. Eggleston recommends relaxing at home and following his post-operative instructions as much as you can.
After you’ve completely healed from implant surgery, the fixture still needs time to become fully integrated with your jawbone. This process is known as osseointegration, and it’s vital for creating a lasting bond with your implant.
4. Securing the Restoration
Dr. Eggleston will place the permanent crown after the osseointegration process is complete—and the implant is securely positioned in your jawbone.
The crown connects to the fixture through a piece called the abutment. The permanent, custom-crafted crown is the only portion of the implant that anybody will see. We manufacture our crowns from beautiful, tooth-colored porcelain—we’ll also use a shade guide to ensure that the crown matches the rest of your smile.
Supplemental Procedures
Sometimes Dr. Eggleston determines that treatment is necessary, before your implant surgery, to maximize your potential for a successful outcome.
For example, some patients have too little bone density to support an implant. In these situations, Dr. Eggleston can use bone grafting—the process of using a small piece of hard tissue from another area of the body to encourage bone growth elsewhere—to prepare your mouth for the implant process.
No matter the condition of your smile, Dr. Eggleston will work with you to make you the ideal candidate for dental implants.
Caring for Your New Implant
One of the most sought after features of dental implants is that they require the same care as your natural teeth. As long as you brush twice a day, floss after meals, and visit Dr. Eggleston biannually, your stunning restoration will last a very long time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the dental implant process take?
The entire process from your initial consultation to your implant placement procedure can take anywhere from three to six months. The specific time period for you may depend on your jaw bone density, oral health, and if you need a supplemental procedure such as bone grafting or gum disease treatment.
Does it hurt to get dental implants?
Our goal at Eggleston Dental Care is to make sure our patients feel as comfortable as possible during their treatment. That’s why we’ll prevent any pain or discomfort by providing you with an anesthetic and sedation dentistry.