Dental Implants Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the dental implant process take?
The dental implant process depends on your specific treatment plan.
Most dental implant procedures are performed in the oral surgeon’s office. The dental implant is inserted into jaw bone and will be covered for about 3 to 6 months while osseointegration (the bonding of the jaw bone to the dental implant) takes place. You may wear temporary dentures until you receive your final custom prosthesis, but this will be determined based on how many dental implants you are getting. After osseointegration is complete, you will have the abutment and crown placed on the dental implants. The dental implant process typically requires a 5- to 8-month commitment from the patient. Some patients require additional procedures (like bone grafting or tooth extraction) before their dental implant placement, and this can lengthen the process. The process length is determined based on your treatment plan.
Is the placement of dental implants painful?
Typically, patients experience some residual post-operative discomfort. This can be resolved with Advil or Tylenol for the following 2-5 days.
Some dental implants require bone grafts or tooth extractions prior to implantation, which will take additional procedures and anesthesia. Or you may be having multiple dental implants during your procedure. The discomfort experienced depends on the extent of your procedure.
Do dental implants require special care?
Your dental implants will need to be brushed and flossed every day. In addition to regular daily oral care, you will need to maintain a checkup schedule with your dentist. They should be maintained like your natural teeth.
Why does it take a 3-step process to place dental implants?
The 3-step process ensures the procedure is as successful as possible. The first step consists of burying the screw-like dental implant within the jaw. The surgical site will be covered while it heals; once it is ready, the dental implant will uncovered for the second step - insertion of the abutment. Step three is the final restorative stage, which is the application of the custom crown.
Recent research has shown that it is possible to insert the abutment (stage two) at the same time as the dental implant (stage one). This course may not be right for everyone, but it does reduce the number of procedures and recovery time. The most crucial part of the dental implant process is to allow the dental implant to osseointegrate and naturally bond to the jaw bone. The abutments also need to be protected from damage (like when you chew) and heal before the final step takes place.
It may seem like a lengthy process, but it is proven to deliver the best results. Offering our patients the best results is our top priority.
How long do dental implants last?
If you properly care for and maintain your dental implants, they should last the rest of your life! But dental implants are not indestructible. Most oral health problems and tooth loss stem from oral disease, poor oral care, or lack of treatment, and the same is true for dental implants. If you do not follow proper care instructions, the dental implants can fail. The best way to make your dental implants last is to follow your oral surgeon’s instructions, continue the outlined care for your teeth, and attend regular checkups.