When you undergo a dental implant procedure, having the dental implant placed is just the first step in the journey. The real power of a dental implant is the healing that takes place after, with a process known as osseointegration. When osseointegration is successful, it creates a sturdy foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture. Here’s what you need to know about how dental implant osseointegration works.

What is osseointegration?

Osseointegration is the process where your dental implant fuses with your jawbone. Depending on your oral and overall health, the process can take two to four months to complete. Factors like bone density and your body’s ability to heal also play a part in how long osseointegration may take.

How does osseointegration work?

Osseointegration is a process that works over a series of months after getting dental implants in Norfolk. Here are the steps involved.

1. Implant insertion

A dental implant, typically a titanium post, is surgically inserted into the jawbone. The dentist closes the incision with stitches, and the gum begins to heal around the implant. Below the surface, the jawbone begins to recognize and acclimate with the implant.

Thanks to advances like one-day dental implants, you’ll leave the office with a temporary dental prosthesis, so you won’t have to continue living with a missing tooth. At this point, your body is ready to heal and let osseointegration run its course.

2. Healing

For the first few days after implant surgery, you might notice inflammation around the implant site. That’s completely natural as long as it doesn’t get worse or last more than a few days. Swelling or inflammation that lasts more than a few days could be a sign of a problem.

But assuming the body heals naturally, new bone tissue will begin to grow around the implant as the body accepts the biocompatibility of titanium. Bone cells will grow and attach to the implant and create more stability as healing continues.

3. Bonding

As the bone continues to integrate with the implant, it creates a stable root over the next few months. Once the site is fully healed, the dentist will attach the dental prosthetic, whether that’s a crown, bridge, or denture, to the top of the implant. The prosthetic becomes a durable dental appliance that can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance, all thanks to the osseointegration that happened beneath the gum line.

What happens if osseointegration doesn’t work?

If the body rejects the titanium implant and it fails to fuse with the jawbone, it can lead to implant failure. This may cause pain, inflammation, and implant loosening. In severe cases, the surrounding bone may weaken rather than strengthen.

When this happens, the failed implant may need to be removed. The dentist might also need to perform a bone graft or another procedure before attempting a new implant using a different biocompatible material.

The bottom line

Dental implant osseointegration is a critical component of the success of dental implants. This process involves the fusion of the implant with the jawbone, ensuring stability and long-term functionality. For questions about the osseointegration process, always consult with a qualified dental professional.