Dental implants are a revolutionary treatment for replacing
missing teeth that provide an incredible alternative to bridges and dentures. This unique treatment uses small titanium posts that are surgically implanted directly into your jaw. Your bone fuses to these posts, integrating them into your jaw. This process, called osseointegration, stabilizes the posts so that they provide secure support for your new teeth. At Optimum Oral Surgery Group, we provide dental implants to treat several different tooth replacement needs. Here is what you can expect during the implant placement process.
The First Step
Before undergoing dental implant surgery, we first perform an initial consultation. This appointment is performed to determine your candidacy for implants. We go over your medical history and thoroughly examine your mouth. Along with looking over your mouth, we also take digital images to see the hidden structures of your mouth below your gumline. Your consultation allows us to take note of any medical conditions you might have that could interfere with the
procedure, if you have cavities or gum disease, or if you require a
bone graft before surgery. We also go over your sedation options and create a customized treatment plan to provide you with the best results possible.
The Day of Surgery
Before beginning surgery, we administer a local anesthetic and provide you with sedation. Surgery begins with small incisions in your gums to expose the bone below. Holes are then drilled into the bone, and the implant posts are placed directly inside. Finally, we suture your gums closed around the posts and place temporary teeth.
Recovering After Surgery
The length of time it takes to recover after surgery varies from patient to patient. There are many factors that are involved in your recovery. Typically, however, it can take several weeks to several months to complete. After your procedure is complete, we provide you with instructions to help your recovery go smoothly. These instructions will help you deal with post-surgical issues like pain and swelling. They also provide you with information on what activities to avoid, what to eat, and how to take care of the surgical wounds. Following these instructions is important to prevent potential complications.
Placing Your Final Restorations
Once you have completely recovered from implant surgery, we then begin the process of placing your final dental restorations. This process typically requires an additional two appointments. First, your dentist removes the temporary teeth and place abutments, or connectors, onto the posts. They then take impressions of your mouth. The impressions are sent to the dental lab, where they are used to custom design and create your final restorations. Once they are ready, you have your second appointment. During this appointment, your dentist will check your new teeth for fit, bite, color, and comfort. If everything looks good and they feel comfortable, they are secured into place on the posts using small screws.
Implants may be more involved than traditional replacement options, but they provide several incredible benefits that make them well worth it. For more information on dental implants, and to find out if they are the right solution for you,
call Optimum Oral Surgery Group at (856)778-8686 today.
