A tooth implant is done by surgically inserting a dental implant body into the jawbone, which replaces the tooth's root. Here's a detailed explanation of the process:
The Tooth Implant Procedure
The process of getting a tooth implant involves several key steps:
-
Surgical Insertion:
- The dental implant body, typically made of titanium, is surgically inserted into the jawbone. This acts as the new root for the missing tooth.
- This process requires a minor surgical procedure where the dentist or oral surgeon makes an incision in the gum to access the bone.
- The implant body is carefully positioned and secured.
-
Healing and Osseointegration:
- After insertion, the bone needs time to fuse with the implant. This process is called osseointegration, and it can take several weeks to months.
-
Abutment Attachment:
- Once osseointegration is complete, the dental implant abutment is attached to the implant body.
- The abutment typically connects to the implant body using an abutment fixation screw.
- The abutment extends through the gum line into the mouth and is designed to support the artificial tooth.
-
Artificial Tooth Attachment:
- Finally, the artificial tooth (crown) is attached to the abutment. This artificial tooth is custom-made to match the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth.
- The artificial tooth can either be cemented or screwed onto the abutment.
Summary of the Process
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Surgical Insertion | Dental implant body surgically inserted into the jawbone. This acts as the new root for the missing tooth. |
| Healing (Osseointegration) | Jawbone fuses with the implant body over several weeks/months. |
| Abutment Attachment | Dental implant abutment is attached to the implant body using a fixation screw. The abutment extends through the gum line. |
| Artificial Tooth | Artificial tooth (crown) is attached to the abutment. |
In short, a tooth implant involves replacing the root of a missing tooth with a surgically placed implant, followed by attaching an abutment and then finally, a custom-made artificial tooth.
