Overview of the Implant Placement Process
Dental implants are a reliable solution for replacing missing teeth, and the surgical procedure is tailored to each patient’s unique needs. The placement process generally takes between 30 to 60 minutes for a single implant, and around 2 to 3 hours for multiple implants. The number of appointments and the timeline for healing can vary, but our skilled oral surgeon ensures precision and attention to detail at every step.
The Dental Implant Surgical Procedure
The dental implant procedure is carefully planned to ensure your comfort and the best possible outcome:
Pre-Surgery Preparation: Before your surgery, you may be given antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection. Depending on your preferences and the surgeon's recommendation, intravenous sedation or nitrous oxide (laughing gas) may be used for greater comfort. The area is then numbed with a local anesthetic.
Placing the Implant: Once you're comfortable, the surgeon will make a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the bone, create a space using specialized instruments, and gently place the titanium implant. The implant may either remain visible or be covered by gum tissue during the initial healing phase, depending on what is best for your case.
Healing After Dental Implant Surgery
Healing time can vary based on the quality and quantity of your bone. Here’s what to expect during the recovery process:
Initial Healing Phase: Following surgery, the bone needs time to integrate with the implant. In some cases, immediate restoration is possible. Your surgeon will advise you on the necessary follow-up visits and timeline.
Abutment Placement: After the initial healing, a support post (abutment) or healing cap is attached to the implant during a brief visit to allow the gum tissue to mature. This step ensures proper access to the implant for the next phase of restoration.
Follow-Up Care: Typically, 1 to 4 follow-up appointments are required to monitor the healing process and prepare for the final restoration. During these visits, impressions may be taken to ensure your crown or replacement teeth are ready.
Enhancing Healing with Soft Tissue Grafts
In some cases, a soft tissue graft may be performed to improve the strength and appearance of the gums surrounding the implant. This involves transferring a small amount of tissue from one area of the mouth to the implant site. It’s a relatively quick and comfortable procedure that promotes a natural-looking result.
FAQ’s
-
The timing for implant placement can vary:
Delayed Placement: Implants are often placed a few months after tooth extraction, allowing the bone to heal.
Immediate Placement: In some cases, the implant can be placed immediately following tooth extraction, simplifying the process. This approach may carry a slightly higher risk and isn't suitable if there are existing bone issues.
Bone Grafting Considerations: If the tooth has been missing for an extended period, the surrounding bone may have thinned. Bone grafting can rebuild the bone structure to support the implant adequately, addressing the loss of jawbone thickness that can occur within a year after tooth extraction.
-
The number of implants needed depends on the number of missing teeth and their location:
Single Tooth Replacement: Typically, one implant per missing tooth is used.
Multiple Teeth Replacement: Larger teeth at the back of the jaw may require a larger implant or additional support due to having multiple roots.
Dr. Ross Chavkin discusses deciding dental implant procedure at All County Oral Surgery
Completing Your Smile Restoration
After the implant has fully integrated with the bone and healing is complete, your dentist will fit a custom crown or replacement tooth onto the implant. This final step restores your smile's functionality and appearance, giving you a durable and natural-looking solution for missing teeth.
At All County Oral Surgery, our expert team will guide you through every step. Schedule a consultation today to explore your options for a healthier, more confident smile.
