If you’re considering getting dental implants but are nervous about the surgery itself, the good news is that there’s no reason to be afraid. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect from your treatment, including during and after the actual procedure.
Dental Implant Surgery
The dental implant process begins with a consultation with your oral surgeon. There, he will determine if you are a good candidate for treatment. To qualify, you’ll need to have sufficient jawbone density to support your new prosthetic. If not, your implant could fail. If your jaw is not initially deemed strong enough to support a dental implant, you may require a preliminary procedure such as bone grafting or a sinus lift. If you have any preexisting conditions like gum disease, these will also need to be treated before you can get dental implants.
Once your mouth is healthy and strong, you will be ready for surgery. Your procedure will begin with your surgeon numbing your mouth, so you are kept comfortable the entire time. Next, they will cut through the gums to reach the jawbone and drill the metal post in place. Each post takes between one and two hours to attach.
Once complete, your surgeon will close the gums with sutures and place protective caps on the posts.
The Recovery Period
After your surgery is completed, you will be able to go home and begin the recovery process. This takes about six months to complete but could take slightly longer or shorter depending on your individual circumstances. During this period, it is essential that you follow the aftercare instructions provided by your surgeon. Avoid eating foods that might irritate your incisions and don’t chew on anything too tough, sticky, or crunchy while your implants heal. Most of the swelling and discomfort should dissipate within the first few weeks after surgery, and you can gradually expand your diet when it does.
The Final Restoration
Once your mouth has healed sufficiently from the initial surgery, you will return to your oral surgeon’s office to have your implant abutments placed. These are the pieces that connect the crown, bridge, or denture to the implant post itself. To do this, the surgeon must cut into your gums; however, this procedure has a much shorter and more comfortable healing period. As you recover from it, your final restoration will be crafted at the dental laboratory, and in a few more weeks you’ll return once again to have it secured to the abutments.
When your final restoration is placed, you should not experience any lengthy discomfort or require a long recovery period. In fact, you should be able to use and show off your new smile that very same day!
Remember, while the idea of surgery may seem scary or overwhelming, the good news is that dental implant treatment is usually very predictable, and nothing to be afraid of. Best of all, with a little patience, you’ll soon have a healthy, beautiful smile to show off and use!
About Our Practice
At Northern Virginia Oral, Maxillofacial, & Implant Surgery, our team of skilled and caring oral surgeons want to help restore your healthy, beautiful smile with durable, lifelike dental implants. If you’ve been considering these life-changing prosthetics but have been nervous about what to expect from treatment, rest assured that you’re in excellent hands with us. To schedule your consultation and get started on the road to gorgeously restored grin, schedule a consultation for dental implants today by visiting our website or calling 571-777-6501.