The Endosteal Implant Procedure Explained In Three Steps
The endosteal implant procedure is known as a permanent replacement for lost or damaged teeth. The procedure can be used to correct the issues caused by tooth loss when a single tooth is lost, or act as an anchoring system for dental bridges when a large number of teeth are lost. The endosteal implant is the most natural application in both appearance and installation among the common implant procedures.
The process can be undertaken in many ways, but the most common method is known as the three-stage method:
What is the Three-Stage Endosteal Implant Method?
The three-stage method, also known as the two-stage method among some dental practitioners, is a process that allows for an endosteal implant to be placed during three separate steps. These steps normally take place on different days, and after a period of healing between each step. These stages correspond to the placement of the three implant components known as the base, the abutment, and the crown:
- Stage One - In the first stage, the endosteal implant will be anchored within the jawbone. This process will involve cutting the gums at the implant site. It will also involve the placement of a screw-shaped prosthetic device, known as the base, into the jawbone. The base will then fuse to the jawbone over the course of a few months, a time period that will vary by the individual to some degree. This fusion process is known as osseointegration, and it is the most important step in the process. It will provide a solid anchor point for the implant, and will allow it to last for many years if performed properly.
- Stage Two - During the second stage the abutment will be attached to the base. The abutment is a device shaped like a rod or cone. The gums will need to be cut once more for the abutment to be placed. Once the abutment is attached firmly to the base, there will be a healing period that takes place while the gums heal. This typically requires a few weeks.
- Stage Three - The final stage of the endosteal implant process will involve the placement of the last component, the crown. The crown is the part of the implant that looks like an actual tooth. It can be made from several different materials such as gold or porcelain. It is the part that will be used for chewing. There is usually no surgical procedure in this stage. The dentist will fit the tooth to the abutment and make certain that it is set properly. This usually only takes a few minutes if everything has set properly.
The endosteal implant process is a time-tested procedure with a 95% or higher success rate that typically costs between $1500 and $10000 per tooth. The average cost is $4250 per tooth. You can normally count on your new implant lasting for decades with proper dental hygiene and normal dental check-ups. To learn more, contact a professional like Dr. Andres Maeso with any questions or concerns you have.