Dental Implants

What Are Dental Implants?

If you are beginning to explore the world of dental implants in Henderson, NV and near Las Vegas, NV, you’ve come to the right place. Knowing what a dental implant actually is allows you to understand the process a little better. Kudos to you for wanting to learn!

A dental implant has three parts, the implant, the abutment, and the crown. Let’s look at these parts separately.

The Implant

The implant is actually the part of the implant that gets placed in the jaw. Typically all implants are made with titanium. Scientifically, the titanium does not corrode in the body and your tissue can easily bond to titanium.

The Abutment

The abutment is attached to the implant in the jaw and connects the final restoration (crown) to the implant. The abutment looks like a short, little, tree stump. An abutment isn’t much to look at, but it’s like a bridge over a river….necessary!

The Crown (or Finished Restoration)

The crown or finished restoration is the part of the dental implant that you will be most happy and excited to see. The crown is the part of the implant that looks like a natural tooth. These types of crowns can be made from a variety of materials and are either screwed on or cemented on. Once the crown has been placed on your dental implant you are already to resume smiling as big as you can again!

Whether you need a single dental implant or multiple dental implants, Dr. Gregg Hendrickson can help you. He is one of five hundred Board certified dental implantologists in the nation. He is an expert in them and has placed thousands of dental implants, and invites you to a free consultation. Call us today in Henderson, NV and near Las Vegas, NV to see if dental implant surgery is for you.

The Process of Placing Dental Implants

At Comprehensive Dental Implant Center in Henderson, Dr. Hendrickson and our team are committed to providing you with a seamless and comfortable dental implant surgery experience. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the dental implant placement process:

1. Initial Consultation

Your journey begins with an initial consultation with Dr. Hendrickson. During this visit, we will:

• Assess Your Oral Health: Conduct a thorough examination of your mouth, including X-rays and 3D imaging, to evaluate the condition of your jawbone and determine the best placement for your implants.
• Discuss Your Goals: Understand your specific needs and goals for tooth replacement to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your situation.
• Review Medical History: Discuss your medical history and any medications you are taking to ensure you are a suitable candidate for dental implants.

2. Treatment Planning

After your initial consultation, Dr. Hendrickson will develop a detailed treatment plan. This plan will outline:

• Number of Implants Needed: Determine how many implants are required to support your replacement teeth.
• Placement Strategy: Plan the precise locations for the implants to ensure optimal support and aesthetics.
• Timeline: Provide a clear timeline for each stage of the implant process, from surgery to final restoration.

3. Implant Placement Surgery

The next step is the surgical placement of the dental implants. Here’s what to expect:

• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia or sedation will be administered to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
• Incision: Dr. Hendrickson will make a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the jawbone.
• Implant Placement: A small hole is drilled into the bone at the predetermined location, and the titanium implant post is inserted.
• Stitching: The gum tissue is then stitched closed over the implant to promote healing.

4. Healing and Osseointegration

After the implant placement, a healing period is necessary to allow the implants to integrate with the jawbone. This process, known as osseointegration, typically takes several months:

• Bone Integration: The titanium implants fuse with the bone, creating a strong and stable foundation for your new teeth.
• Temporary Restoration: Temporary teeth may be provided during this healing period to maintain function and appearance.

5. Abutment Placement

Once osseointegration is complete, the next step is to place the abutment:

• Reopening the Gum Tissue: A minor procedure is performed to expose the top of the implant.
• Abutment Attachment: A small connector, called an abutment, is attached to the implant. This will hold the final crown in place.

6. Final Restoration

The last step in the process is the placement of your custom-made prosthetic teeth:

• Impressions: Detailed impressions of your mouth are taken to create the final crown, bridge, or denture.
• Prosthetic Fabrication: The prosthetic teeth are crafted to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, ensuring a natural and seamless look.
• Attachment: The final prosthetic is securely attached to the abutments, completing the restoration.

7. Follow-Up and Maintenance

After the placement of your final restoration, regular follow-up appointments are essential to ensure the long-term success of your dental implants:

• Check-Ups: Regular dental check-ups with Dr. Hendrickson to monitor the health of your implants and surrounding tissues.
• Oral Hygiene: Guidance on maintaining good oral hygiene practices to keep your implants in optimal condition.

Talk to Dr. Hendrickson About Dental Implants

At Comprehensive Dental Implant Center in Henderson, we strive to make the dental implant process as smooth and comfortable as possible. Dr. Hendrickson and our experienced team are dedicated to providing exceptional care and support throughout your treatment, ensuring you achieve a beautiful, functional smile that lasts a lifetime. If you have any questions about the dental implant surgery process or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today.