The Dental Implant Process

At Plano Family Dental, the entire implant process can be completed in the comfort of our office with Dr. Varun Joseph, your trusted local dentist. The process involves multiple steps and healing periods to ensure your new implant is as strong and functional as possible.

Step 1: Evaluation

First, Dr. Joseph will evaluate whether you are a good candidate for a dental implant. This assessment includes checking:

• The available space for a crown
• Whether you have sufficient bone to support the implant
• If there are any infections that need treatment before proceeding

Step 2: Implant Placement

Next, you’ll meet with Dr. Ash, our skilled periodontist who works right here in our Plano office. Dr. Ash will assess your bone health and proceed with the placement of the implant post. This involves:

• Using local anesthetic, medication, or sedation as needed for comfort
• Placing a titanium post into your jawbone
• If a tooth needs to be extracted, the implant may be placed at the same appointment or after a short healing period
• If a bone graft is needed, it will be done as an additional step

After placement, the bone needs time to heal and integrate with the implant. This typically takes several months to ensure a solid base for your implant.

Step 3: Healing Abutment

Once healing is sufficient, Dr. Ash will place a healing abutment on top of the post. You’ll be able to see this abutment above your gumline. There will be another short healing period of a few weeks.

Step 4: Creating Your Custom Crown

Next, you’ll return to Dr. Joseph to take impressions for the dental lab to craft your permanent crown. Your permanent crown will include a small access hole so it can be securely attached to the implant.

While your crown is being made (this takes about three weeks), the healing abutment will be placed back on the implant to protect it.

Step 5: Final Placement

At your final appointment, Dr. Joseph will place your permanent implant crown, ensuring it fits properly. A temporary material will be placed in the access hole to secure it.

About a month later, Dr. Joseph will recheck the implant and crown. If everything looks good, he will fill the access hole with a permanent filling, completing your implant procedure.

Ongoing Care

During each teeth cleaning appointment, our hygienists and Dr. Joseph will continue to monitor your implant to make sure it stays healthy and strong for years to come.

If you’re interested in learning more about the dental implant process or wondering if implants are right for you, schedule an appointment online or give us a call at (972) 867-5090. We’re here to answer your questions and help you achieve your healthiest smile!

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