Dental Implant Process
There are 3 main ways to have a Dental Implant placed:
- Option 1: Remove tooth and place bone in the socket for healing. Implant is placed in 3-4 months. Final crown is then placed after another 3-4 months. Time until final crown placement: 6-8 months
- Option 2: Remove tooth, place bone, place implant. Time until final crown placement: 3 months
- Option 3: Remove tooth, place bone, place implant, place temporary tooth (this is mainly for cosmetic areas). Time until tooth (temporary tooth): Immediately
Implant Abutments:
The dental implant abutment can be formed from among different materials including titanium, surgical stainless steel or even gold, but the more modern abutments tend to be made from zirconia (a white ceramic). The abutment is placed into the implant base and forms the with a screw butt joint in three-piece implants. From there the crown is placed over the abutment. In two-piece implants the abutment is morse tapered or cold welded on the implant. In a one-piece implant the trans-mucosal abutment is incorporated as an integral part of the implant.
Decision Considerations:
Remember that the final permanent tooth restoration and the cost associated with it is provided by your dentist. Also be aware that there are costs associated with making a removable tooth to hold the space with option 1 and 2.
The vast majority of patients choose Option 3 when it is possible.
Benefits of option 3 include:
A. Less cost
B. No removable tooth during healing
C. Quicker final crown restoration
