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Treatment is easier than you might
think. The process is usually completed in two phases.
In the first stage the dental implant,
(a small titanium device shaped like a tooth root), is placed into the
jaw bone. This minor surgical procedure is usually done in the office
with local anesthetic or light sedation for patient comfort. A period of
time is allowed to pass for the bone to attach to the implant, a process
called "Osseointegration".
The second phase begins after the bone
adheres to the implant. A post is added that extends above the gum line.
A series of impressions and bite registrations are made. A replacement
tooth (crown) is custom made in the laboratory and finally attached to
the post with cement or a tiny screw. A single tooth or a full set of
teeth can be replaced using these techniques.
Often a dental implant can be placed
at the time of tooth removal. A temporary tooth (or teeth) can be
delivered at the same time so a patient does not have to leave the
office without their teeth.
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