Suppose you are considering dental implants as a solution to your missing or otherwise problematic teeth. In that case, you might be wondering what the procedure process involves. Here's our easy-to-understand patient guide to the dental implant procedure.
The Dental Implant Procedure - Step-by-Step Overview
Before undergoing a dental implant procedure, Dr. Christopher J Couri will conduct a comprehensive exam of your mouth, teeth, and jawbone to assess your candidacy for dental implants. X-rays or CT scans may also be performed to evaluate bone density and structure.
The dental implant procedure typically has several steps tailored to your specific needs and the type of implant chosen.
Step 1: Anesthesia
To ensure your comfort, the initial step involves administering local anesthesia to numb the designated area where the implant will be positioned.
Step 2: Incision and Placement
Once the area is numb, a small incision is made in the gum to expose the jawbone. Then, Dr. Couri will drill a small hole into the jawbone and carefully place the dental implant into the hole. To help protect the implant during the healing phase, your dentist may affix a temporary cap over it.
Step 3: Osseointegration
The following phase, osseointegration, involves the fusion of the implant with the jawbone. This natural yet critical process spans several months, ensuring the secure anchoring of the implant into the jawbone.
Step 4: Abutment Placement
After successful osseointegration, an abutment is positioned atop the implant. The abutment serves as a small connector linking the implant to the eventual replacement tooth or bridge.
Step 5: Impression and Restoration
Following abutment placement, your dentist captures an impression of your teeth and gums. This impression is used to craft a custom replacement tooth or bridge. The final step involves permanently attaching the replacement tooth or bridge to the abutment, thereby concluding the dental implant procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implants
Are Dental Implants Safe?
Dental implants are a safe and effective answer for many dental patients, having been used for half a century. However, there can be complications, just like with any other medical or dental procedure. Seeing a highly-skilled, well-trained implant dentist will help minimize the chance of any complications and ensure any problems are handled immediately with appropriate actions. should they arise.
You and your implant dentist should review your health history and any habits that might impact the success of the implant treatment course, such as smoking, so that you can be fully informed about the benefits and risks involved in receiving dental implants.
Does it Hurt to Get Dental Implants?
Many dental implant patients report that they feel better than they expected after the procedure. We offer many sedation techniques during treatment to help our patients feel more comfortable and at ease. There may be some bruising and discomfort that lasts a short time. Home care may involve over-the-counter or sometimes prescription pain medications. Typically, patients will return to work and regular activities within 24 hours after the procedure.
Dental Implants in Peoria
At Christopher J Couri, DDS, MS, we know how much dental implants can change your life for the better. It's common to have many questions and concerns before committing to dental implant surgery. We are here to address them for you and help you know what to expect so that you can have the straight smile you have always dreamt about.
Contact us at 309-674-4148 to schedule an appointment to learn more about dental implants.