How are dental implants placed?
Step one: The dentist makes an incision at the implant site to expose the bone. The doctor prepares the site to accept the implant and then inserts the implant into the jawbone.
Step two: In some cases, the dentist may need to close the gum tissue over the implant. In many cases, however, this step may not be necessary.
Step three: After the healing period (3-9 months), the doctor exposes the implants and attaches connectors to the implants, which are used to secure the teeth to the implants.
Step four: The replacement teeth are lab fabricated and permanently attached to the implants. Normal function and stability is restored.
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What do dental implant restorations look like?
Most patients do not associate implants and cosmetics, yet most dentists do. When a missing tooth can be replaced without harming the adjacent teeth, it is the most cosmetically pleasing result. A bridge generally involves removing a large portion of the teeth on either side of the missing tooth and replacing it with a porcelain or porcelain to metal cover. A color and shade match is taken to blend the bridge with the surrounding teeth. With an implant, there is only one tooth to blend and match the color. A bridge is three crowns connected and requires more difficult and time-consuming home care techniques than a dental implant. An implant is not connected and can be maintained the same as natural teeth.
How can implants be placed in a predictable way?
Successful implant therapy requires accurate knowledge of the site where it is to be placed. With the use of imaging, we can accurately determine the quantity and quality of bone at the site where the implant is to be placed. In most cases, we can use simple x-rays. In some cases, however, we may use a CAT scan and special computer software, so that we can better analyze the bone sites. This process helps take out any guesswork in implant dentistry.
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Can an implant be placed the same day my tooth is removed?
Yes! Very often we can place the implant directly into the extraction socket the day the tooth is removed. We have been performing this treatment for many years with a high degree of success. This approach reduces treatment time by many months.
Do I have to go without my teeth?
No, in most cases the temporary replacements can be modified so you will leave with teeth in place following surgery.
How long will treatment take?
Treatment time from the moment the implant is placed until the restoration is completed can vary dependent on the complexity of the patient’s condition. Treatment can take as little as 8 weeks or as long as 18 months. After your consultation visit, your dentist and surgeon can give you a better estimate. The actual surgery to place the implant usually takes place in less than an hour depending on the number of implants to be placed.
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Is implant surgery painful?
Of course, you will be anesthetized with local anesthetics to eliminate any pain during the procedure. Apprehensive patients are offered a number of options to alleviate anxiety ranging from intravenous sedation, oral sedation, and premedication with relaxing drugs. Our main concern is your comfort.
After surgery, patients can expect a level of discomfort less than a simple tooth extraction. Some of our patients have reported little or no discomfort after surgery. Of course, every patient is different and experiences may vary.
Will I be awake during the surgery?
Many of our patients prefer to be awake during the surgery. Of course, there is no pain during the surgery regardless of whether you are awake or not. We offer a variety of sedation protocols to ensure that you have a comfortable experience.
What different options for sedation can I choose from?
- IV sedation or twilight sleep. Medications are administered through an IV which allows for a deep level of relaxation. Most patients will lightly sleep through the appointment and awake with no memory of the procedure. This technique offers the deepest level of sedation.
- Oral sedation or anxiolysis - Oral medications are administered in the office prior to the procedure. The patient is able to respond to directions but is relaxed and comfortable. Most patients will remember very little of the procedure.
- Oral premedication Patient are given a prescription medication to take prior to their appointment to reduce anxiety
- Inhalation analgesia. Nitrous oxide or “laughing gas” can be given to relax the patient. The effects of the gas are gone before the patient leaves the office.
Your dentist can discuss these options in a more comprehensive way with you when have your treatment consultation.
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Implant Dentistry 
