At Dental Restorative Group, Dr. Chang offers patients extensive knowledge in dental implants. As a prosthodontist, he has years of experience in specialized training, and he is skilled in the restoration and replacement of teeth. Beyond that, he and his team regularly contribute research to advance the field of dental implantology at Harvard University’s dental school, where Dr. Chang serves as an instructor.
Because of his role as an educator, Dr. Chang believes in fully educating his patients regarding any procedure they might be considering, so they are prepared to make an informed decision. In order to provide you with a better understanding of what you can expect from the dental implant process and how long you can expect it to take, we’re discussing the process below.Â
Immediate Load Dental Implants
Immediate Load Dental Implants
Patients who have a strong and healthy jawbone and healthy gums may qualify for immediate load dental implants, which is a considerably shorter process than if you require any pre-surgeries. With this type of placement, Dr. Chang will be able to place your dental implants and your crowns on the same day. However, this treatment will be determined on a case-to-case basis, and not all patients will qualify.
If Dr. Chang determines that immediate load dental implants are the best option for your care, he will:
- Remove any remaining diseased or loose teeth remaining in the mouth
- Thoroughly clean your gum line in preparation for your dental implants
- Surgically and strategically place your dental implants
- Immediately load your new crowns on top of your dental implants
Healing and Fusing to the Jawbone
After this appointment, you will need to heal for about 2 months as your dental implants permanently fuse to your jawbone. During this time, your diet will be slightly restricted, but once Dr. Chang has verified your dental implants and jawbone have fused together, you’ll be good to go!
Pre-Surgeries and the Dental Implant Placement
When Pre-Surgeries Are Needed First
While immediate load dental implants are possible and a much faster process, not everyone will qualify for this option. Many patients needing dental implants require pre-surgeries in order to prepare for the placement of their implants.
Because tooth loss often occurs as a result of poor oral hygiene, many patients also have reduced jawbone tissue and poor gum health. When you visit with Dr. Chang, he will perform a full clinical evaluation, take advanced imaging, and talk to you about your overall health history to determine if you will require any pre-surgeries before your dental implants can be placed. Those pre-surgeries could include:
- Bone graft
- Gum graft
- Sinus lift
How Long the Full Process Takes
Depending on your specific needs for pre-surgeries, your entire dental implant process could take up to one year to complete. While this sounds like a long time, the wait will be well worth it! Once you have completely healed, you will have total oral freedom and a beautiful, natural-looking smile, too!Â
Call Dr. Chang to Discuss Dental Implants
If you’re ready to find out how dental implants can truly change your life, call Dr. Chang today. After your one-on-one consultation, he will be able to give you a clear idea of how long your specific dental implants procedure might take. You can reach a member of his friendly team today by calling (617) 489-1470.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the complete dental implant process take?
It depends on your needs. Patients who qualify for immediate load implants can receive implants and crowns in a single day, then heal for about two months. Patients who need pre-surgeries such as grafting may need up to one year overall.
What are immediate load dental implants?
Immediate load implants are placed and topped with crowns during the same appointment. Candidates generally need a strong, healthy jawbone and healthy gums. Dr. Chang determines this on a case by case basis, and not every patient will qualify for the shorter approach.
How long do implants take to fuse to the jawbone?
After placement, patients typically heal for about two months while the implants permanently fuse to the jawbone. During this time your diet will be slightly restricted. Once Dr. Chang verifies the implants and bone have fused, you can return to normal eating.
What pre-surgeries might I need before implants?
Because tooth loss often follows poor oral hygiene, many patients have reduced jawbone tissue and poor gum health. Preparatory procedures can include a bone graft, a gum graft, or a sinus lift, depending on what your evaluation and imaging show.
How does the dentist decide what my treatment plan will be?
Dr. Chang performs a full clinical evaluation, takes advanced imaging, and reviews your overall health history. From that information he determines whether pre-surgeries are required and can give you a clear idea of how long your specific implant process may take.
Is it worth waiting through a longer implant process?
Many patients feel the wait is worthwhile. Once healing is complete, dental implants restore oral function and provide a natural looking smile. A one on one consultation with Dr. Chang is the best way to understand the timeline for your own situation.
