Embarking on the journey to dental implants involves a meticulous surgical process that holds the promise of lasting smiles. Let’s delve into the intricacies of the dental implant procedure.
Understanding the Timeline
The placement of a dental implant typically takes 30 to 60 minutes for one implant and 2 to 3 hours for multiple implants. The number of appointments and duration vary among patients, with the surgeon prioritizing precision and individualized attention.
Pre-Surgery Preparation
Prior to surgery, patients may receive antibiotics and, for enhanced comfort, intravenous sedation or nitrous oxide (laughing gas). These options are thoroughly discussed during the consultation. A local anesthetic is administered to numb the area where the dental implant will be placed.
The Surgical Act
Once comfortably anesthetized, the surgeon makes a small incision in the gum tissue, exposing the bone. Special instruments create space, allowing the gentle insertion of the titanium implant. In some cases, the implant may be covered by gum tissue during the initial healing stages.
- Normal: Upper jaw with all normal teeth.
- Tooth Loss: Upper jaw missing a tooth with the jaw bone unhealed.
- Healed Bone: Representation of a healed upper jaw bone after losing a tooth.
- Implant Placed: Digital representation of the initial dental implant in the jaw bone.
- Healing: Healed jaw bone after placement of the dental implant.
- Implant Restored: Fully restored tooth using a dental implant.
Healing After Surgery
The post-surgery phase marks the beginning of healing, with the duration varying based on bone quality and quantity. Implants may be restored immediately in some cases, with the surgeon providing guidance on follow-up care and timing. A follow-up visit involves placing an abutment or healing cap onto the dental implant, allowing gum tissue maturation and providing access for future procedures.
Soft Tissue Grafting
For stronger, natural-looking gum tissue, a soft tissue graft may be recommended. This involves transferring a small amount of gum tissue from one part of the mouth to the implant area—a brief and generally comfortable procedure.
Restoration Completion
Whether replacing one tooth or several, the restoration concludes with fitting the replacement tooth (crown) to the dental implant. The dentist ensures a seamless integration for a natural and functional result.
When Are Dental Implants Placed?
Implants are often placed several months after extraction. Immediate placement may occur in some cases, simplifying the process but requiring careful consideration of infection risks and bone health.
Determining the Number of Implants
Typically, one implant per missing tooth is placed. Larger teeth in the back may require two or three implants for optimal support, especially when adjacent support bone has thinned over time.
Embark on your journey to a lasting, confident smile with our Dental Implant Procedure. Schedule your consultation by calling us at Abilene Surgical Associates, (325) 437-3100.
