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Dental Implant Procedure

What to Expect Before, During and After Surgery + Ongoing Care

A dental implant procedure is the most effective solution for replacing one or more missing teeth.  

Before Dental Implant Surgery

What happens before surgery depends on whether or you’ve had your infected or damaged tooth removed. A dental implant can be done the same day as the tooth extraction.

During Dental Implant Surgery

Dental implant surgery is an outpatient procedure which you will be sedated for. The surgery typically takes between one and two hours and you will not feel any pain or discomfort throughout this process. Your oral surgeon will make a cut to open your gum to expose the jawbone. Holes are drilled into the bone where the dental implant’s metal post will be placed-serving as the tooth’s root.

dental implant

After Dental Implant Surgery and Recovery

At this point you will still have a gap where the tooth is missing while you wait for bone growth (osseointegration) which will fuse the implant to your jawbone creating a stable base for your new artificial tooth. For appearances we can provide a temporary denture.

You may experience some pain and discomfort up to 10 days after surgery. This can be controlled with over the counter medications like Advil, Tylenol or a prescription provided by your dentist. After 7-10 days you will return to your dentist to have your stitches removed. Before getting your artificial tooth placed it can take 4-6 months for the bone to fuse around your new implant.

abutment placement

Placing the Abutment

An abutment is the piece that attaches your crown or new artificial tooth to the implant. This process requires minor surgery done with local anesthesia. The abutment will be attached to the dental implant and requires one to two weeks recovery before your artificial tooth can be attached. 

Image of Implants

Custom Artificial Teeth

New artificial teeth will be created using impressions from your remaining teeth. Once your jawbone is strong enough to support the new teeth, they will be placed on the abutment. You will be able to choose from a removable or fixed tooth/teeth.

Ongoing Care for Your Dental Implants

Implants require the same care as real teeth: brushing, flossing and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash and regular visits to your dentist. Learn how to properly clean your dental implants through the link below.

Patient Information

We encourage new patients to fill out a new patient form online prior to your first appointment. Be sure to select the appropriate location for your new patient forms, as once you complete them, they are sent electronically to the office you’ve chosen. 

Insurance

Medical and dental insurance can be confusing. Our staff has experience with your questions and can help you get the most from your insurance.

No insurance? Apply today. 

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