A Patient's Guide to The Dental Implant Procedure

If you’ve lost or damaged a tooth beyond repair, one of the best dental treatment solutions to consider is a dental implant. Dental implants are effectively replacement teeth that are nearly indistinguishable from your natural teeth. As a result, you can look forward to having an improved smile, along with restoring full function to your mouth.

While modern dental implants have been around for several decades, not many people know what the dental implant process entails. Interested in dental implants, but you’re nervous about the procedure? We here at Dr. Park Family Dentistry are happy to break down the dental implant process step by step:

Step #1: The initial consultation

Before anything else, it is important to determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants with a first visit. One popular but false myth is that dental implants are only for a specific age. In actuality, dental implants are for everyone, though because they are a total tooth replacement they aren’t recommended unless teeth are damaged or broken beyond repair.

Additionally, dental implants do rely on healthy gums and your jawbone for support more than other dental treatment solutions. It is possible that your dentist treats your mouth and strengthens your gums and jaw before they can recommend you to get dental implants.

Step #2: Preparing your mouth for implants

Once your dentist has approved you for dental implants, they may take an additional visit or two to prepare you for implant insertion. Dental implants are a total tooth replacement, so if any fragments or chunks remain of the old tooth, they’ll need to be removed before your dental implants can be inserted.

You will also need to schedule your dental implant treatment ahead of time. Ideally, you will want to schedule your dental implant surgery for a week where you can take a couple days off to recover without having to go to work. Discuss the best dates and times with your dentist before you lock in your implant insertion date.

Step #3: Inserting the implants over one or two visits

Inserting your dental implants may take one to two visits, depending on how many implants you require and your current mouth condition. However, the actual process of inserting dental implants is generally the same even if it is split up over multiple visits.

Your dentist starts by opening a small incision in your mouth so a titanium post can be attached to your jawbone. Once placed, your dentist will seal up the incision and proceed to attach an artificial tooth, usually made out of porcelain, to the metal post. In general, each dental implant takes about an hour to insert per tooth, though it may take longer or shorter depending on which tooth needs to be replaced.

Step #4: Recovery from implant insertion

Once all of your dental implants have been inserted, recovery will take place over the course of three different stages:

• One week after treatment. Your mouth will be very sore for a couple days after treatment. Take the recommended medication from your dentist and try to stick to simple, soft foods as much as possible.
• Two to four weeks after treatment. After a couple weeks, your mouth will largely feel back to normal besides some mild tenderness. If needed, over-the-counter pain medication will help you as your mouth continues to adjust.
• Three to six months after treatment. It typically takes at least three to six months for your implant to fully bond with your gums and jawbone. Even after successful bonding, continue to practice good oral hygiene habits. If pain lingers or you encounter any other complications, make sure to visit your dentist for assistance.

Get dental implants from Dr. Park Family Dentistry

Do you or someone you know need dental care in the Kingston, Ontario area? Then please consider visiting us at Dr. Park Family Dentistry! Our trained team of dental specialists have over 100 cumulative years of experience, combining tried and true techniques with the latest in dental technology. Besides dental implants, we offer dental services for the whole family so that everyone can have a brighter and healthier smile.

Contact us today if you have any questions or to schedule an appointment with us here at Dr. Robin S. Park Family Dentistry!