Dental implants are teeth prostheses usually used for adults with missing teeth. Implant restorations are designed to feel, function, and appear like natural teeth. Dental implant surgery involves the surgical placement of implant posts into the jawbone.
Dental implant surgery is available at Oak Tree Dental in Poway and the surrounding area. Aside from the cosmetic benefits of dental implants, they also help preserve the oral cavity structure. To learn more about this process, call our office at (858) 748-2101 to book an appointment with Oak Tree Dental.
Getting started with dental implant surgery
Due to the surgical nature of the process, the dentist will perform a comprehensive evaluation to ensure the patient is eligible for the implant restoration. The dentist may use X-rays, teeth models, CT scans, and a precision surgical guide during this process. This will allow them to determine the patient's bite, the proper positioning of the implants and restoration, and the quality and density of the jawbone. Then, they will judge the condition of the jawbone based on the scans and the number of teeth that need replacement.
The dental professional will also inquire about any existing medical condition and current medications, including supplements and those bought over the counter. If the patient has a cardiovascular condition, diabetes, or orthopedic implants, the dentist may prescribe antibiotics ahead of the surgery to stop the infection. The dentist will also discuss pain management options and provide instructions to follow before and after the surgery.
Patients should arrange for transport home after the treatment because they may not be fit to drive. In addition, it is also a good idea to free up one's schedule and rest for at least 24 hours after the surgery, as rest is an important part of the recovery process.
“Patients should arrange for transport home after the treatment because they may not be fit to drive.”
Before implant placement surgery
Tooth decay, gum disease, and injury to the mouth can lead to the loss of one or more teeth. However, tooth loss does not mean you cannot have a healthy mouth. The patient needs to have good oral health before surgery. We may recommend additional treatments such as bone grafting in preparation for dental implant surgery.
Each patient may have a different experience based on several factors. These include the number of teeth we are replacing, the type of implant, and the patient's overall oral health. We will advise the patient through each step of the process.
Bone grafting, in particular, is necessary when there is not enough healthy bone inside the jaw to support the implant. Other potential pre-surgery treatments may include gum disease treatment or dental fillings. Once the patient is ready for surgery, we will provide them with instructions to follow, especially for the night before. These instructions may include avoiding certain foods, fasting the night before, and getting a proper night of sleep.
“Each patient may have a different experience based on several factors. These include the number of teeth we are replacing, the type of implant, and the patient’s overall oral health.”
The surgical operation
The next process is to place the implants into the sites to begin the healing process. After placing the implants correctly, the dentist will end the surgery by closing the gum tissues. They usually use self-absorbing stitches that do not need removal.
The jawbone will need to heal (a process known as osseointegration) before the dentist places the abutment (the part that screws over the implants). Afterward, the final restoration will be attached on top to complete the implant restoration process. The entire treatment could take several months depending on the rate at which the jaw heals, so patience is necessary throughout.
“The jawbone will need to heal (a process known as osseointegration) before the dentist places the abutment (the part that screws over the implants).”
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Minor swelling, soreness, and bleeding of the gums are common symptoms following dental implant surgery. Fortunately, there are certain post-surgery home care techniques the patient can implement to make the recovery process as effortless as possible. Additionally, patients are encouraged to avoid foods that may irritate the implant site. These foods can include those that are hard to chew, are either very hot or cold or contain a high level of sugar. Also, it is best to drink water rather than soft drinks, tea, coffee, and other dark beverages that contain sugar. We may also require one or more check-up visits to ensure that the implant surgery is a success and complications do not develop.
“Fortunately, there are certain post-surgery home care techniques the patient can implement to make the recovery process as effortless as possible.”
Questions answered on this page
Q. How should someone prepare for dental implant surgery?
Q. What should a patient do after dental implant surgery?
Q. What happens during the initial consultation?
Q. What happens during the implant placement surgery?
Q. What are the risks of dental implant surgery?
People also ask
Q. Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
Q. How can I prepare for my first implant procedure?
Q. What is the importance of follow-up appointments after implant treatment?
Q. How many follow-up appointments will you need post-op?
Risks of dental implant surgery
Like any surgery, dental implant surgery has its risks. Complications are rare and are often minor and easily treated. Regardless, the risks include infection around the surgery site, injury or damages to the lips, gums, or teeth, and sinus problems. During the initial consultation, the dentist will discuss these risks and address the patient's concerns. We will do everything in our power to keep patients as safe as possible during the operation.
“Complications are rare and are often minor and easily treated.”
Frequently asked questions
The dentist will likely recommend Tylenol® or non-steroidal anti-inflammatories such as Advil®, Motrin®, or Aleve® to alleviate pain. You need to use any prescribed medication according to the dentist's instructions. Ensure you eat or drink something before taking any pain meds, so you do not feel nauseated.
It is advisable to stick to soft and easy-to-chew foods. Good examples include yogurt, ice cream, smoothies, steam vegetables, and warm soup. Ensure you avoid tough or sharp-edge foods such as steak, tortilla chips, and pretzels.
Most patients get back to normal within a week after the implant surgery. The first few days may be slightly uncomfortable, but your condition will improve over time. Follow aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
The dentist will be able to provide an estimate of the treatment timeline after the initial evaluation. The dentist may provide qualifying patients with a temporary dental prosthesis to wear during the osseointegration process. However, the dentist will only place permanent dental restoration after the bone heals fully.
Dental implant terminology
An abutment is a component that attaches to the dental implant so a professional can place a dental crown to provide patients with an artificial, aesthetically pleasing and fully-functional smile.
Multiple replacement teeth that are fixed in place via attachment to dental implants, natural adjacent teeth, or a combination of the two.
A crown is an artificial tooth, usually consisting of porcelain, which covers the top of the implant to provide people with an aesthetically pleasing and fully-functional tooth.
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants may be an option for people who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason.
Endosteal is a type of dental implant that a professional places in the alveolar and basal bone of the mandible that transcends only one cortical plate.
Eposteal is a type of dental implant that conforms to whichever edentulous surface of an alveolar bone is superior.
An implant-supported bridge is a dental bridge that professionals fix in place with the use of dental implants inserted in the jaw to create a sturdy set of artificial teeth.
Osseointegration is the process in which a titanium dental implant fuses with the surrounding bone over several months after an oral health professional places the implant in the jaw.
Call us today
Get in touch with our team today at 858-748-2101. We respond to all who are interested in our services promptly. On your first visit, we will answer your questions, provide information about the process, and help you make an informed decision about dental implant surgery.
Individual results vary. How long a treatment lasts, and how it looks and feels, depends on each patient.