Dental Implant Process Leland NC | Dr. Josh Heinsheimer

The Dental Implant Process from Waterford Family and Cosmetic Dentistry

The dental implant process is the only tooth replacement treatment that will require many visits over several months. However, this multi-stage process is designed to provide a permanent solution for patients with missing teeth. Dr. Josh Heinsheimer provides his patients with dental implants in Leland, NC. If you are considering teeth implants, it is important to learn how the implant procedure works. Continue reading to learn more about the dental implant process in Leland, NC.

Consultation and Assessment

The first step in your dental implant journey will begin with a thorough consultation. During this stage, Dr. Heinsheimer will evaluate your oral health, take X-rays, and discuss your medical history. This comprehensive assessment is crucial to determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants.

Treatment Planning

Based on your consultation and what the dentist learns about your current oral health, we will develop a detailed treatment plan. This plan will be tailored to your specific needs. It will take into consideration details such as the number of implants required, the condition of the jawbone, and the type of restoration (dental crown, dental bridge, or denture) you will need.

Preparatory Procedures

Many patients require some type of preparatory procedures to quality for dental implant placement. This can include bone grafting to augment the jawbone if you lack the required density to support implants. You may also need a sinus lift may be performed in the upper jaw to create adequate space for implant placement. It is also important to be in good health and oral health. Your dentist will recommend any necessary treatment.

Dental Implant Placement

The surgical phase involves the actual placement of the dental implants into the jawbone. You will work with a local oral surgeon for this phase of the implant process. During the dental implant placement, your surgeon will use local anesthesia, ensuring your comfort throughout the procedure. They will make an incision in the gum to expose the bone, drill a small hole for each implant, and precisely place each dental implant into the jawbone.

Osseointegration

Following implant placement, the dental implant will fuse to the bone during a process called osseointegration. This process creates a strong and stable foundation for your false teeth. Osseointegration takes several months to complete.

Abutment Placement

Once osseointegration is complete, a minor surgical procedure is performed to attach abutments to the implants. They are crucial for providing stability and support for the prosthetic teeth.

Impressions and Fabrication of Prosthetic Teeth

With the abutments in place, the next step involves taking impressions of the mouth. These impressions are used to fabricate your custom prosthetic teeth. This will be a dental crown if you are missing a single tooth or a dental bridge or denture if you are missing multiple teeth.

Placement of the Final Dental Restoration

The final stage of the dental implant process involves attaching the custom-made prosthetic teeth to the abutments. Dr. Heinsheimer will carefully check the fit, aesthetics, and functionality to ensure that the restoration integrates with your smile. Once satisfied, he will secure it to the abutments.

To learn more about the dental implant process in Leland, NC, schedule an appointment with Dr. Heinsheimer at Waterford Family and Cosmetic Dentistry. You can reach our dental practice by calling 910-519-1624 or request an appointment online.

Dental Implant Process Leland, NC