Bronx Dentists Install Durable Dental Implants

A dental implant is an excellent alternative to dentures or bridges. Cosmetic dentists in the Bronx, NY can install artificial implants into empty jaw sockets that once held natural teeth. After a tooth is knocked out accidentally or extracted on purpose, empty space may become occupied by surrounding teeth. In order to prevent some teeth from shifting, it's important that the gap be filled with an implant as soon as possible.

There are several major steps in the installation of an implant. First, a surgical incision is made deep into the jaw in order to properly insert a titanium screw or anchor. It may take several months for the metallic part to naturally bond with bone tissue and fully heal. This fascinating biological process is known as osseointegration, when live bones fuse together with external materials that are implanted by humans.

The second step in dental implantation involves the attachment of an abutment, which is a small hook that is used to securely connect a screw with a crown. Made from porcelain, a dental crown is available in a myriad of colors that are designed to mimic the natural texture of enamel. A cosmetic dentist has the expertise to match artificial crowns with a patient’s surrounding teeth.

For healthy adults, the time span for complete installation of a dental implant may take well over six months. Such a comprehensive procedure requires plenty of patience especially if complications arise such as infections around the metal anchor or crown.