Dental Implants

With the advancement in technology comes the advancement in dental procedures. At Copperstone Dental, we are proud to offer dental implant surgery in Meridian, Idaho as a permanent fix to replace a missing tooth (or teeth).

Dental implants are made of a titanium metal post and tooth colored material, such as porcelain or composite resin. These materials are used to create a false tooth implant that will replace the root of the tooth. This implant replaces the root of the tooth and fuses with the jawbone to act as a natural tooth, allowing you to eat, chew, and bite naturally. As a tooth or bridge implant can take several months to complete, your dentist will recommend a consultation to discuss the process and time frame of your tooth or bridge implant.

Pre-Implant Exam

Before beginning the process, your dentist will examine the dental gap and take a series of photos and x-rays to locate where the implant should be placed. Your dentist or oral surgeon will discuss the process and time frame of the implant procedure as well as healing time and post surgical care.

Dental Implant Surgery

Prior to starting the surgery, an anesthetic will be provided to numb the area receiving the implant and will begin once you are comfortable. Your dentist will then make a small incision in the gum to begin the implantation. Once space is created, the implant will be gently inserted into the gum tissue to, over time, fuse with the jawbone. This process can take between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the patient.

Dental Implant Healing Process

After the implant is inserted, your dentist will allow a “healing phase” before continuing the implant process. This allows the gums to heal from surgery and allows the implant to fuse with the jawbone. The process will vary with each patient, depending on the body’s ability to accept the implant and quality of bone health. During your follow up visit, your dentist will provide a temporary dental cap or “crown” to cover the implant post as it continues to heal, until the permanent crown is ready. During the healing process, one to four dental visits may be required to observe the gums as they heal.

The Final Steps

When the permanent dental crown is ready, your dentist will fit the crown to the dental implant and test your bite for any inconsistencies. If you are having multiple implants done, your dentist may have a dental implant bridge made to cover and fuse the teeth together, to ensure a successful implantation. Proper oral health care and routine maintenance is key to a lasting and healthy implant surgery. Your dentist will discuss the proper after care and help establish a daily oral care routine.

For more information about dental implants or to schedule a dental implant consultation with Dr. Tuft, call our dental office today! We are excited to start your journey to a fuller and brighter smile!