What to Expect in a Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants help replace missing teeth and restore their functionality and aesthetic appeal. Since the procedure involves oral surgery, you might be worried about opting for this treatment.

Because of this, it’ll help to learn about the process and what to expect before getting dental implants. Here’s what you need to know:

• Initial Consultation
  Getting dental implants starts with a dentist consultation. Here, they will evaluate your oral health, take X-rays, and perform other tests to determine if the surgical procedure best fits your needs.
  
  Afterward, your dentist will create a personalized treatment plan, which includes the number of required implants, necessary procedures like extractions or bone grafting, and the complete timeline. It is also an ideal opportunity to ask questions or address concerns during the consultation, like “What is a tooth implant?” or “How long is the recovery?”.
  
  
• Implant and Abutment Placement
  The next step is the implant placement. This procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, as the dentist will make a small incision in the gum tissue where the artificial titanium root will be placed. Then, a healing period takes a few weeks to several months, so the implant fully integrates into your jawbone.
  
  After the titanium implant has finished healing and integrating with your jawbone, the abutment is installed next. This component is responsible for linking the artificial root to the replacement crown.
  
  
• Final Restoration
  The dental implant process is then completed with the artificial tooth placement. After allowing the gums to heal around the abutment, dental impressions are taken. With these, the dentist can customize your replacement teeth' color, shape, and size, ensuring a natural and seamless result in restoring your smile.
  
  
• Post-Operative Care
  Following the completion of the procedure, you may experience swelling, discomfort, and some minor bleeding. So, your dentist may prescribe pain medication and detailed instructions on post-operative care, which typically includes maintaining proper oral hygiene practices and attending regular dental check-ups.

Reach Out to a Dental Professional

Learning about what to expect during a dental implant procedure can put you at ease and help you better prepare for this oral surgery. Contact Blue Ash Dental Group in Cincinnati, OH to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment with us!