Osseointegration occurs when the dental implant fuses together with the bone inside of the jaw. This creates a strong hold for the implant to help ensure it does not come loose or cause complications long-term. This review discusses the importance of osseointegration for the dental implants procedure.

The dental implants procedure and osseointegration

The dental implants procedure involves the placement of one or more implants into the jaw. After placement, the jaw must heal and the implant must go through osseointegration, which is the fusion of the titanium material and the jawbone.

The dental implants procedure explained

The dental implants procedure refers to the placement of the dental implants. Before this scheduled procedure, some patients require a bone graft and other treatments for preparation. The placement procedure is a type of minor surgery that involves making an incision into the gums and drilling a small hole into the jawbone. The dental implants are then placed and sutures are used to close the gums.

Osseointegration explained

It takes less than a few weeks for the mouth to heal after a dental implants procedure. However, the osseointegration process can take several months. This process involves the titanium dental implants fusing together naturally with the jawbone. This essentially makes the jawbone and the implants one and provides a much more secure hold to the implant restorations. In fact, the process of osseointegration is the primary reason many consider dental implants superior in quality when compared with removable dentures and fixed bridges.

Why osseointegration is important

As mentioned, osseointegration is important as it ensures a strong and permanent hold for dental implants. Otherwise, receiving traditional implants may not be possible or they may not be as durable. Due to osseointegration, individuals who choose dental implants are able to eat the way they desire without fearing their restoration coming loose.

How long osseointegration takes

Osseointegration can take up to six months, although it takes as little as three or four months in some cases. In the meantime, the patient can receive a temporary denture to allow for an ideal smile and the ability to chew properly. The patient can minimize the risk of any complications during the osseointegration process by practicing good oral hygiene, avoiding chewing hard or sticky foods, and visiting the dentist for check-up visits.

What happens after osseointegration

After osseointegration takes place and the implants are securely fused to the jawbone, then another placement procedure is scheduled to fix the abutments and the restoration (either a crown, bridge, or denture) to the implants, completing the teeth replacement process. This is a minimally invasive process that does not require surgery and the patient can return home with their new smile the same day.

Schedule a consult to learn more about dental implants

The dental implants procedure is safe and effective with minimal risks. If you have additional questions about dental implants, the benefits they can provide, and the placement and osseointegration process, then call our experienced dental team to schedule a consultation.

Request an appointment here: https://hulensmiles.com or call Hulen Smiles, Implant and Cosmetic Dentist at (817) 585-4159 for an appointment in our Fort Worth office.