An Overview of the Dental Implant Procedure

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 19% of adults aged 65 and over experience complete tooth loss (edentulism). Fortunately, a dental implant procedure has a high success rate. There are cosmetic, functional, and oral health benefits to this treatment that other teeth replacement options may not be able to provide.

Dental implants are placed either inside or on the jaw and serve as the root of the replacement tooth. Subsequently, the bone inside the jawbone is preserved and provides a more durable stabilization of the replacement tooth. The dental implant procedure is a series of steps to complete the dental implant and replacement tooth process, which typically involves preparation, the placement process, and follow-up care.

We encourage anyone interested in teeth replacement through dental implants to reach out to us for more information.

“Dental implants are placed either inside or on the jaw and serve as the root of the replacement tooth.”

How to Prepare for The First Implant Procedure

Each one of our patients may have a slightly different experience. However, there are certain steps we take to ensure that our patients are ready for the day of the procedure. The following is an overview of how to properly prepare for implant placement and make it through the early stages of the dental implant procedure.

The First Implant Consultation

The first visit is simple. The primary purpose is to help the patient make an informed decision about treatment, along with determining the type of treatment they prefer. The dentist may start by discussing the patient's goals for treatment, conducting an oral examination, and ordering dental X-rays to get a better idea as to what preparations the patient needs.

The dentist may also describe the difference between fixed and removable teeth replacement options. The patient can ask any questions during this time, as well. If both our team and the patient agree to move forward, then we can discuss the next steps to take in the process.

At-Home Preparation

While the first dental implant procedure may cause some anxiety, patients can reduce stress and nervousness by properly preparing at home the night before. Our team will provide a list of instructions before the day of the placement procedure, which may include avoiding certain foods or fasting.

We also encourage patients to shop for soft foods to have after the procedure in advance to make the recovery process more convenient. Although it may not be easy, patients need to get a decent night of sleep the night before the placement procedure.

How to Calm Fear and Anxiousness

Communication is essential when dealing with fear and anxiety before your dental implant placement procedure. We encourage patients to ask questions about the procedure, especially as it pertains to preparing ahead of time. We will gladly do all we can to make the process as easy and convenient as possible.

“While the first dental implant procedure may cause some anxiety, patients can reduce stress and nervousness by properly preparing at home the night before.”

The Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implant surgery involves replacing natural tooth roots with artificial roots using metal, screw-like posts that hold an artificial tooth, such as a crown or bridge. The type of surgery performed will depend on the type of implant and the condition of the patient’s jawbone. This is discussed during the consultation appointment and the patient should have a good understanding of their procedure type prior to surgery.

The implant procedure typically consists of several stages and treatments with recovery periods in between. The process involves a series of steps:

• Damaged tooth removal
• Jawbone preparation (grafting), when needed
• Dental implant placement
• Bone growth and healing
• Abutment placement
• Artificial tooth placement

During the day of the procedure, the patient will be put under an anesthetic to eliminate pain or discomfort during and after the treatment. We make a small cut to open the gums and expose the bone underneath. Then, we drill holes into the bone to make space for the dental implant(s). The implant post is ready for the application of the artificial tooth replacement.

“The type of surgery performed will depend on the type of implant and the condition of the patient’s jawbone.”

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Home Care After the Dental Implant Procedure

Many patients consider the recovery process following implant placement to be the most challenging time of the process, but it can be made more tolerable by following an appropriate aftercare routine. To recover quickly and minimize discomfort after implant placement, implement the following home care techniques:

• Stick to a soft diet. Avoid foods that are hard to chew, high in sugar, or high in carbohydrates. Also, avoid any beverages that may irritate the affected area, primarily drinking water.
• Practice good oral hygiene. Brush gently several times each day and use mouthwash as directed by the dentist. Gentle brushing reduces the risk of oral infection, gum inflammation, and increased discomfort.
• Avoid physical activity. Physical activity such as sports, weight lifting, and running, may aggravate the affected area. The risk of aggravating the affected area is especially high if one receives a blow to the face. Talk to the dentist about what activities patients need during recovery.

Proper home care is essential to a quick recovery. It might be ideal to miss work for a short amount of time after implant placement and give yourself time to make the necessary arrangements for a convenient recovery process.

“Many patients consider the recovery process following implant placement to be the most challenging time of the process, but it can be made more tolerable by following an appropriate aftercare routine.”

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