Illustrations: Placing an Implant
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| 1. An incision is made in the gum where the implant will be placed. | 2. A hole is drilled in the bone. | ||
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| 3. The implant is placed into the hole in the bone. | 4. The incision is stitched closed. | ||
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| 5. After healing, a new incision is made over the implant. A metal piece called a healing cap usually is screwed on top of the implant to guide the tissue as it heals. Later, the healing cap is removed. Then a permanent part, called an abutment (pictured), is screwed onto of the implant. It is used to support a crown. | 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
©2001-2012 Aetna All rights reserved
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