Implant dentures are the best way to address extensive tooth loss. They are sturdy, long-lasting, natural-looking, and can even help to keep your jawbone strong and healthy. But how long will it take before you can start to enjoy their benefits? There are a number of factors that may affect your treatment timeline. This blog post explains what you can expect during your journey to a fully restored smile.
Getting Started
To start your journey, you will need to attend a consultation with your dentist. They will learn about your oral health, ask about your goals, and start to plan your treatment. Based on your unique needs, they can create a rough timeline for the road ahead. Feel free to ask questions and bring up any concerns so you can make well-informed decisions about your care.
Preliminary Care
Some patients need preliminary care before they can get dental implants. For example, you might require tooth extractions, a bone graft, or gum disease treatment.
In some cases, dental implants can be placed immediately after extractions or bone grafting. In other cases, a waiting period of several weeks or even a few months is necessary. This allows time for your mouth to heal so it can provide a hospitable environment for your implants.
Implant Placement & Osseointegration
When your mouth is ready to receive dental implants, you will undergo minor oral surgery so your team can place your new prosthetic tooth roots into your jawbone. While the initial healing period is just a few weeks, it can take 3 – 6 months for the implants to form a strong bond with the surrounding tissue. This phase is known as osseointegration.
After osseointegration, you might need to undergo a second minor procedure, which will involve placing small connector pieces (called abutments) on top your implants. These are what will keep your new teeth in place.
In contrast, if you are getting All-on-4 implant dentures, you will receive a temporary denture on the same day as your implant placement surgery. This eliminates the need for a second procedure.
Restoration
After your implants have formed a strong bond with your jawbone, your dental team will design your final denture by taking detailed restorations of your mouth. A trustworthy lab will fabricate your new teeth, and once they are ready, they can be attached to your implants.
So… How Long Does the Process Take?
Depending on your unique situation, the implant denture process can take anywhere from a few months to a year or longer. While that might seem like a long time, you can look forward to having a strong, healthy, and confident smile that could last throughout your lifetime!
Meet the Practice
At New Haven Dental Group, we are proud to provide start-to-finish dental implant services in a welcoming environment. We strive to work as efficiently as possible without compromising outcomes. If you are ready to schedule your initial consultation and get started on the road to a restored smile, contact our Branford location at 203-439-6895.