Are you scheduled for a tooth implant surgery and are feeling a little nervous? Knowing what to expect and being prepared can help calm your nerves and make surgery day a little less intimidating.
In this blog, we will break down the surgical procedure and discuss what you can expect during and after the dental implant procedure.*
Steps of Dental Implant Placement
You will receive local anesthesia to numb the area being treated. Most people having dental implant surgery will also receive anesthesia such as nitrous oxide, IV moderate sedation, or IV deep sedation. The type of sedation used will be determined by your oral surgeon and will be discussed with you before the surgery.
The next step is to make an incision in the gum line to expose the bone. The implant (a titanium or zirconia post) is then placed directly into the jawbone, and a special healing cap is placed over the implant. The healing cap prevents debris and bacteria from entering the implant site. Once the implant is in place, the tissue is closed up with stitches. The entire procedure takes approximately 1 to 2 hours.
For 3 to 6 months, the dental implant is left alone to completely heal and bond with the jaw bone; this process is called osseointegration. During this time, the implant and surrounding gum tissue will form a tight bond, and the implant will become firmly attached to the bone. You will return to the office for checkups during this time so the doctor can monitor the healing process.
What To Expect After Surgery
After the placement of a dental implant, you can expect to feel sore and have some swelling in the days following surgery. We will provide you with post-surgical instructions, but the basics of after-care include the following:
1. Use ice packs to reduce swelling in the area
2. Take medication as prescribed
3. Eat soft foods for a few days and avoid hot beverages
4. Do not smoke or use any type of tobacco products for a minimum of 4 weeks
5. Brush and floss your teeth on the night of surgery, avoiding the surgery site
6. Rinse mouth for 30 seconds with Chlorhexidine mouth rinse after breakfast and before bed
7. Use salt-water rinses several times a day, especially after eating
Final Steps of the Dental Implant Procedure
The second stage of the dental implant procedure involves removing the healing cap and replacing it with an abutment. Local anesthesia and sedation (if required) will be administered. An incision will be made in the gums, and the healing cap will be removed and replaced with an abutment. The abutment is an extension of the implant which connects the implant to the actual replacement tooth.
You may experience some swelling and discomfort at the surgical site, but this should resolve within a few days. Eat soft foods for a few days and practice good oral hygiene.
Your dentist will perform the final stage of the implant procedure. Drs Benjamin Foley, Daniel Foley & Thao Le will perform the surgery, and your dentist will make the permanent prosthesis (crown, dental bridge, removable denture) that will go over the dental implant. Once the abutment is in place and has had time to heal, your dentist will place your dental crown. Once the crown is screwed or cemented into place, your implant procedure is complete! Your tooth has been restored to optimal shape and function and will look and feel like your natural teeth.
Dental Implants Boulder, CO
Dental implant surgery is an effective and long-lasting treatment for missing teeth. At Foley & Le Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, we strive to make each dental implant procedure as comfortable and stress-free as possible. We understand that the thought of oral surgery can be intimidating, but our experienced surgeons will walk you through every step of the procedure to ensure a successful outcome.
Contact us today for more information about how we can help you restore your smile with dental implants. If you are searching for dental implants near me, contact the experts at Foley & Le Oral Surgeons Boulder, CO. For dental implants Boulder, CO, call Foley & Le at (303) 444-2255 or complete the online booking form. We look forward to being your dental implant provider in Boulder, CO.
*In some cases, a bone graft is needed prior to implant placement. Read When Are Bone Grafts Necessary for Dental Implants? to find out more about this procedure.
