Simple Steps To Better Dental HealthBack
space placeholder.space placeholder
New reviewed by Columbia banner
Illustrations: Placing an Implant

Illustration of an incision in the gum where the implant will be placed.                 Illustration of a hole drilled in the bone for the implant                
1. An incision is made in the gum where the implant will be placed.                 2. A hole is drilled in the bone.                
Illustration of the implant in the bone                 Illustration of the gum stitched over the implant after the first surgery                
3. The implant is placed into the hole in the bone.                 4. The incision is stitched closed.                
Illustration of healing abutment attached to implant after second surgery                 Illustration of a crown being placed on the implant                
5. After healing, a new incision is made over the implant. Another component, called an abutment, is screwed on top. The abutment is used to support a crown. A temporary abutment, called a healing abutment, usually is placed before a final abutment.                 6.The crown, which is made to look like a natural tooth, is cemented or screwed onto the abutment.                
Illustrations created by Simple Steps designers Kelly Farrington and Glenna Hartwell
.
Last updated December 5, 2007
.

© 2002-2010 Aetna, Inc. All rights reserved. All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen. Use of this online service is subject to the disclaimer and the terms and conditions. External website links provided on this site are meant for convenience and for informational purposes only; they do not constitute an endorsement. These external links open in a different window.