Dental implants are the chosen method of tooth replacement. They are generally made of titanium and come in different lengths and shapes to suit the location and type of jaw. An extension called an abutment is secured to the implant and a new crown is placed to match the color and contours of the existing teeth.
After proper treatment planning and communication with the specialist and lab, an oral surgeon or periodontist will place the implant through surgical methods into the bone and cover with stitches. This procedure is carried out under local anesthesia. The stitches are usually removed two weeks later at a follow-up examination.
Over the next three to nine months, the implant integrates with the bone to become stable. During this healing period, a temporary fixed restoration or removable appliance will be used to cover the area and close the gap.
In the second treatment stage, a custom-fitting post called a "healing cap" is secured into the integrated implant. This will re-create the space needed for the gum around the new crown.
The third treatment stage consists of impression taking and inserting the precision-fitting abutment and either cementing the crown or fitting (or retro-fitting) a removable denture over the implant to secure fit during meals.