Dental Implant Procedure: What to Expect From Start to Finish

Thinking about getting a dental implant? It’s a big decision, and you probably have tons of questions. We get it! At Dorri’s Dental in Boynton Beach, FL 33436, we want you to feel completely comfortable and informed about every step of the process. This guide will walk you through what to expect, from your initial consultation to showing off your brand new smile. We’ll break down the dental implant procedure so it’s easy to understand.

Dental Implant Procedure: What to Expect From Start to Finish

So, what exactly *does* the dental implant procedure entail? Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

1. Initial Consultation and Evaluation

This is where it all begins! During your consultation, we will:

• **Review your medical history:** We need to know about any health conditions or medications you’re taking.
• **Perform a thorough exam:** We’ll check your teeth, gums, and jawbone.
• **Take X-rays and possibly a CT scan:** This helps us assess the bone density and plan the implant placement.
• **Discuss your treatment options:** We’ll explain the dental implant procedure in detail and answer all of your questions. Schedule an appointment today to get started.

We’ll determine if you’re a good candidate for dental implants at this stage. Sometimes, bone grafting may be necessary if there isn’t enough bone to support the implant.

2. Implant Placement

This is the surgical part. Here’s a glimpse:

• **Anesthesia:** We’ll use local anesthesia to numb the area, and sedation options are available to help you relax.
• **Incision:** A small incision is made in your gum tissue to expose the jawbone.
• **Drilling:** A pilot hole is carefully drilled into the bone.
• **Implant Insertion:** The titanium implant post is gently screwed into the prepared site.
• **Closure:** The gum tissue is stitched back into place.

You’ll likely experience some soreness and swelling after the procedure, but this can be managed with pain medication.

3. Osseointegration (Healing)

This is a critical phase where the magic happens. Osseointegration is the process where the implant fuses with your jawbone, creating a strong and stable foundation for your new tooth. This typically takes:

• **3-6 months:** The exact timeframe varies depending on individual healing and bone density.

During this time, you may have a temporary crown or bridge to protect the area and maintain your smile’s appearance.

4. Abutment Placement

Once osseointegration is complete, we’ll place an abutment. The abutment is a connector piece that attaches to the implant and holds the crown. This involves:

• **A minor procedure:** We’ll reopen the gum tissue to expose the implant.
• **Abutment Attachment:** The abutment is screwed onto the implant.
• **Healing Period:** Your gums will need a couple of weeks to heal around the abutment.

5. Crown Placement

The final step! We’ll create a custom-made crown that perfectly matches your surrounding teeth in shape, size, and color. The crown is then:

• **Attached to the abutment:** This can be screwed or cemented into place.
• **Adjusted for a comfortable bite:** We’ll make sure your bite feels natural and comfortable.

Congratulations, you have a brand new, fully functional tooth!

Taking Care of Your New Implant

Proper care is essential for the longevity of your dental implant. Here’s how to take care of your implant:

• **Brush and floss regularly:** Just like your natural teeth.
• **Use a soft-bristled toothbrush:** Be gentle around the implant site.
• **Consider an interdental brush:** These can help clean hard-to-reach areas.
• **Schedule regular dental checkups:** We’ll monitor the health of your implant and surrounding tissues.

Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption will also contribute to the success of your implant.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Why choose dental implants? There’s a reason they’re so popular! The benefits include:

• **Improved appearance:** Implants look and feel like natural teeth.
• **Enhanced speech:** Unlike dentures, implants won’t slip or cause you to mumble.
• **Increased comfort:** Implants are stable and secure, so you can eat and speak with confidence.
• **Improved oral health:** Implants don’t require altering adjacent teeth, as with bridges.
• **Durability:** With proper care, implants can last a lifetime.
• **Restored confidence:** A complete smile can do wonders for your self-esteem. We also have before and after pictures if you would like to see some of our work.

Potential Risks and Complications

While dental implants are generally very safe, like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications. These can include:

• **Infection:** Proper hygiene and antibiotics can minimize this risk.
• **Nerve damage:** This is rare, but can cause numbness or tingling in the area.
• **Sinus problems:** This is more common with implants in the upper jaw.
• **Implant failure:** This can occur if the implant doesn’t properly fuse with the bone.

We’ll discuss these risks with you in detail during your consultation.

Cost of Dental Implants

The cost of dental implants can vary depending on several factors, including the number of implants needed, the type of implant, and the need for additional procedures like bone grafting. Check out our page on how much do dental implants and bridges cost. We offer financing options to help make dental implants more affordable. We also work with many insurances, so don’t hesitate to call us to find out if you are covered.

Dental Implants FAQs

Got more questions? Here are some common ones we hear:

Are dental implants painful?

The implant placement is performed under anesthesia, so you shouldn’t feel any pain during the procedure. Some soreness and discomfort after is normal, but this can be managed with pain medication.

How long do dental implants last?

With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.

Am I a good candidate for dental implants?

Most people with good overall health and sufficient bone density are good candidates. We’ll assess your individual situation during your consultation.

How long does the entire dental implant procedure take?

The entire process, from consultation to crown placement, typically takes several months due to the osseointegration period.

We’re dedicated to providing exceptional care in a comfortable and friendly environment. Our team, including Dr. Aldorri, Dr. Schobert and Dr. Alathari is here to answer all of your questions and guide you through every step of the dental implant process.

Ready to restore your smile and confidence? Contact us at Dorri’s Dental in Boynton Beach, FL 33436 to schedule your consultation. We’re excited to help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile with a dental implant procedure!