If you have received a consultation and your dentist confirms that a dental implant is right for you, it is now time to start preparing for the procedure. It is important to note that every situation is unique; the information below may differ for each patient.

What to Expect Before Dental Implants

During a consultation visit, your dentist will determine if a dental implant is right. During this visit, you will receive a comprehensive dental exam and a review of your medical history. Once the recommendation is made, you will either be referred to another clinic or, if, at Bassett Creek Dental, you will conveniently receive this procedure right in our office.

Treatment Plan for Dental Implants

A unique treatment plan will be created for you that depends on a few factors, including gum health, jaw and bone health, current medications, etc. The entire process may take several months.

Bone Graft

Before the dental implant procedure, you may need to receive a bone graft. This is dependent on your current bone health. This can take months to heal prior to the dental implant surgery or, in minor cases, can be done the same day.

The Dental Implant Procedure

During this procedure, you may be administered local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia. Your doctor will discuss this with you prior so you can make arrangements to have a driver if needed after the procedure.

During the procedure, you should feel no discomfort. Your doctor will ensure that you are relaxed the entire time.

Overview of the procedure:

• Patient comfort – administered anesthesia
• Expose the bone where the implant is to be placed
• A small hole is drilled into the bone
• A metal post or titanium root is then placed into the bone

After the procedure is completed, you will wait while osseointegration occurs. This can take several months. The jaw bone is growing and uniting with the implant during this time.

Placing Abutment

An additional minor procedure may be necessary to place the abutment on the implant. This is where the crown will eventually attach once healed. This is typically done with local anesthesia.

Attaching Artificial Teeth

Once your doctor determines that the implant is adequately healed, you will be fitted and receive artificial teeth. The type will vary depending on the best solution for you.

Dental Implants Consultation

If you are interested in learning more about dental implants, we’d be happy to discuss it during a consultation today: 763.546.1301