What to Expect During a Dental Implant Procedure

A dental implant is an artificial root that is inserted into your jawbone, and acts as an anchor to hold a replacement tooth in place. If you’re thinking about whether a dental implant procedure is right for you, we have information on what to expect from your implant specialist or oral surgeon.

Why Do I Need a Dental Implant?

If you have a few teeth that are missing, having a dental implant might be the best option for getting back your smile. Generally, the criteria needed for a successful dental implant include:

• You have a fully grown, healthy jawbone
• You don’t suffer from gum disease
• You don’t have conditions that affect bone healing

A dental implant is put into your jaw where you have missing teeth, where healthy bone grows around the implant to help hold your new teeth. In order to evaluate your candidacy for this procedure, you will need to visit a dentist specializing in dental implant procedures.

What Are the Dental Implant Procedure Basics?

A dental implant procedure usually takes place over a few months, with a series of minor tests and operations. Surgery consists of two main phases in order to complete the process.

Phase One

1. For the surgical placement of the implant, local anesthesia will numb the area
2. An incision is made in your gums, exposing the bone underneath
3. A specialized drill will create a space for the implant in the bone
4. The implant itself is screwed in place
5. The gums are closed over the implant, and a stitch or two may be placed

Over the course of the next few months, the dental implant will become securely attached to the bone as your mouth heals. After your specialist is satisfied, the second phase of surgery will begin.

Phase Two

1. A small incision is made in your gums to expose the implant
2. A small extension is placed on the implant for an impression to be taken. This component is what the lab will use to fit your new crown
3. Impressions of your teeth will be taken, in order to create precise working models of your mouth. Your crown is fabricated on these models
4. Finally, your new crown is placed

The Journey After Recovery

Although you might need to eat soft foods after each surgery to let the dental implant site heal, there is no special care required for a dental implant during recovery. In order to avoid potential complications after surgery, you will need to schedule regular dental check-ups with your dentist. They will help you avoid:

• Infection around the surrounding bone and gums
• Your body’s rejection of the dental implant
• Bone loss around the dental implant
• Your dental implant failing to adhere to the bone

Your new implant tooth must be cared for and checked regularly, just like your natural teeth. Brushing and flossing of the implant teeth are recommended. Make sure to visit your dentist every six months, or more frequently if advised.

Have More Questions About Dental Implants?

For more information, please contact the Centre Dentaire Pierrefonds. Our West Island dentists would be happy to provide more details about dental implants.