The Journey to Natural-Looking Dental Implants: 6 Key Steps for Leawood Patients

Dental implants are a reliable, long-lasting solution for missing teeth that restore your smile and blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. At the office of Stephen Huber, DDS, in Leawood, KS, we specialize in creating natural-looking dental implants that offer aesthetic and functional benefits. If you’re considering dental implants, here’s a breakdown of the six key steps toward achieving a perfect, natural-looking smile.

1. Comprehensive Consultation and Planning

The first step in the dental implant process is a thorough consultation with Dr. Stephen Huber. During this visit, we will assess your oral health, discuss your goals, and determine whether you are a good candidate for dental implants. We’ll take X-rays or 3D scans to evaluate the condition of your jawbone and teeth and create a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs. This step ensures we can deliver natural-looking, long-lasting results.

2. Preparing the Implant Site

Your jawbone needs to be in optimal condition before the implant is placed. If it lacks the necessary density to support an implant, a bone graft may be required to strengthen the area. This step ensures that your implant will have a stable foundation, which is critical for long-term success. Dr. Huber will discuss whether you need bone grafting or other preparatory procedures before proceeding.

3. Placing the Dental Implant

Once you prepare the implant site, the next step is to place the titanium dental implant post. This post is the root of your new tooth, that gets surgically inserted into the jawbone. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable. After you place the implant, it will begin to fuse with your jawbone over several months in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong, permanent base for the replacement tooth.

4. Healing and Osseointegration

Osseointegration is a crucial step in the dental implant process. During this period, your jawbone naturally bonds with the titanium implant, securing it firmly in place. This process can take three to six months, depending on individual healing times. While you heal, a temporary crown may be placed over the implant to maintain the appearance and function of your smile until the final restoration is ready.

5. Custom Crown Placement

After fully integrating the implant with your jawbone, it’s time to attach the custom-made crown. The crown is carefully designed to match the color, shape, and size of your surrounding teeth, ensuring a seamless blend with your natural smile. Dr. Huber works with top dental laboratories to create crowns that look natural and function-like teeth, giving you aesthetics and durability.

6. Final Adjustments and Aftercare

Once you place your crown, Dr. Huber will make any necessary adjustments to ensure your bite feels comfortable and natural. Maintaining good oral hygiene and scheduling regular dental checkups are essential for preserving your implant and the surrounding teeth. With proper care, your dental implant can last a lifetime, offering a perfect, natural-looking smile for years.

Start Your Dental Implant Journey in Leawood, KS

If you’re ready to restore your smile with natural-looking dental implants, the office of Stephen Huber, DDS, in Leawood, KS, is here to guide you through every step of the process. Call us today at (913) 349-9795 to schedule your consultation and begin your journey to a beautiful, healthy smile!

Share this Article