Dental implants and implant-supported dentures are a great treatment option for providing you with an entirely new smile that looks and functions much like natural teeth. This treatment is a surgical restoration that is completed over several procedures. Our team at Bruce Gopin, DDS, MS takes every precaution to ensure that you are a good candidate for this beneficial restoration and provide you with a successful outcome.

Several factors will influence your candidacy for dental implants. The best candidates are in overall good health, which will aid in the recovery process after each stage of the procedure. It is also important that your gums and jawbone are strong enough to receive the implants. This is because the titanium posts utilized to hold the implants in place will be installed directly into your jawbone.

Will I Need a Bone Graft?

Our team will take several steps during the consultation and planning process to determine if you need a bone graft. They will complete a physical oral exam to inspect your gums and jawline. They will also take digital X-rays to check the bone density of your jaw.

If it is determined that you need a bone graft before being a candidate for dental implants, they will schedule this procedure for you. A bone graft is a relatively simple procedure that is used to repair and strengthen your jawbone. During the procedure, our professional will make an incision in your gumline at the affected areas and graft bone fragments to your existing jawbone. The bone is usually harvested from a cadaver or made from synthetic material.

A bone graft is a highly successful procedure that results in minimal discomfort. After the procedure is complete, our team will have to allow the bone fragments to fuse with your bone. This process takes several months but can take up to one year according to WebMD. The progress of your bone graft is monitored during this process through the use of digital x-rays.

How Long Do Implants Take?

The length of time to install dental implants will vary based on several factors. The biggest factor that influences this process is whether or not you need a bone graft. If you need a bone graft, the fusion of the bone fragments must occur before the next procedure can be scheduled. Once this occurs, our team can then install the titanium posts.

After the posts are installed, complete healing will take several months. Our team can then fit you with your final set of dentures and ensure that they are functioning properly. The entire process can take in excess of a year if you need a bone graft and will take at least several months if you do not. While this process is very involved, you will have a beautiful and functional new smile once your implants are complete.

If you would like to find out if you are a good candidate for dental implants, or learn more about dental implants contact our team at Bruce Gopin, DDS, MS can help. They can determine your eligibility for implants during an exam and consultation. Afterward, they can get you started on the road to your new smile. You can schedule your appointment by calling our office at 915-213-3455 today.