The Dental Implant Process

Dental Implant Consultation

Just as with any restorative treatment, a consultation is needed first. The consultation is essential for determining the best course of action for your mouth, and if implants are truly the best option for you. Along with a complete visual inspection of the interior of your mouth, we also need to take 3-dimensional images. The images provide us with a view of your jawbone, which allows us to assess its condition and if you have enough bone to support the implant. They also allow us to determine if implants are the best choice for your mouth, and plan your surgical procedure.

The Day of Implant Surgery

On the day of your dental implant surgery, we start by administering a local anesthetic and numbing the surgical sites so that you don’t feel any pain or discomfort. If you are anxious, we can provide you with sedation to help you relax.

Once the anesthesia has taken effect, we begin surgery. We start by making small incisions in your gums, which provides us with access to your jawbone. We then drill holes into the bone, creating space for the implants. The implants are inserted into the jaw, and your gums are stitched closed around them. A small amount of the implant is left exposed above the gum tissue. Before you leave, you will be provided with temporary replacement teeth. Temporary teeth are designed to restore some of the functions of your mouth while you heal.

After the Dental Implant Surgery

Healing from implant surgery depends on several factors, such as how many implants were placed, but it usually takes anywhere from several weeks to several months. During this time your jawbone fuses with the implants, which is a process known as osseointegration. This phase is essential for creating stable support for your new teeth. We will provide you with a specific set of instructions on how to deal with common post-surgical issues, such as pain, swelling, and bleeding. We will also instruct you on what soft, nutritious foods you should be eating, and when you can start resuming regular activities. Following these instructions are crucial to ensuring a smooth recovery period. With visits throughout this phase, we will be able to monitor the condition of your mouth.

Your Final Dental Implant Restoration

When you have fully healed from your implant surgery, we then start the process for your final restorations. We will remove the temporary teeth and place the abutments on the exposed ends of your implants. Impressions of your mouth are taken. These impressions are used to design and fabricate your permanent teeth. Once they are ready, they are screwed in place, providing you with permanent, fully functional prosthetic teeth.

The Many Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants come with numerous benefits: