A Patient's Guide to The Dental Implant Procedure

Are you getting or thinking about getting one or more dental implants? When it comes to replacing lost or damaged teeth, dental implants are the gold standard. They offer a function and appearance that rivals your natural teeth, among many other benefits. 

This patient’s guide to the dental implant procedure will tell you everything you need to from preparation to recovery. 

What Are Dental Implants? 

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is surgically placed in the jaw. It takes the place of the natural tooth root, providing support for a dental prosthetic. The implant is made of titanium that fuses with the jaw bone, forming a solid bond that can last a lifetime. 

Types of Dental Implants

• Single tooth replacement. A single dental implant can support a crown that replaces one tooth at a time. 
• Implant supported bridge. Two dental implants can support a bridge to replace a few teeth in a row. 
• Implant supported dentures. Anywhere from 4-6 dental implants can be placed in the jaw to provide support for a full arch denture. Implant supported dentures can be fixed or removable. 

Who is a Candidate for Dental Implants?

To be an ideal candidate for dental implants you must have sufficient bone structure in your jaw to support implants. The bone must be thick enough, wide enough, and solid enough for a dental implant to be placed. It is common for bone loss to occur in the jaw if one or more teeth have been missing for a while. In this case bone grafting may be recommended to regenerate lost bone tissue. 

Benefits of Dental Implants 

• Natural look. Dental implants are the most natural looking tooth replacement option because they are anchored in the jaw just like your natural teeth. 
• Superior function. Dental implants function like your natural teeth as well, providing the chewing strength necessary for you to eat normally. 
• Jaw bone preservation. The presence of dental implants in your jaw prevents resorption of the bone and maintains facial structure. 
• Won’t affect your existing teeth. Dental implants have no impact on your remaining teeth, unlike a bridge that requires crowns to be placed over healthy teeth. 

The Dental Implant Procedure

The placement of dental implants will require a few appointments over the course of a few months to a year. 

1. Consultation and evaluation. The first step in the dental implant process is a consultation and evaluation. It starts with a discussion about dental implants to determine if you are interested in this option. Then an evaluation is conducted to determine if you are a candidate for dental implants. 
2. Preparation. If necessary, some preparatory procedures may be required, such as bone grafting. This will need to take place a few months before the placement of the implants in most cases. 
3. Placement of dental implant. When the jaw is ready, the dental implant can be surgically placed in the jaw. This is typically done with local anesthesia, but sedation is available when appropriate. 
4. Addition of abutments. Once the dental implant has had time to fully fuse with the jaw bone, the abutment can be added, the post that connects to the dental prosthetic. 
5. Placement of the prosthetic. Once the gum tissue has had time to heal after attaching the abutment, the crown, bridge, or dentures can be permanently placed. 

Aftercare and Recovery

Follow up care and monitoring are required after most steps in the process. Your oral surgeon will provide you with the necessary instructions and support. Rest and recovery will be necessary after any surgical procedure. You’ll need to eat a soft diet until your mouth has had time to heal. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants 

Are dental implants covered by insurance? 

Some dental insurance plans will cover dental implants and some will not. You’ll need to contact your insurance provider or refer to your benefits guide to determine coverage. We can also review your insurance benefits and offer a cost estimate. 

Do dental implants require special care and maintenance? 

You’ll still need to go to the dentist every 6 months for dental cleanings after getting dental implants. You can brush your dental implants the same as you do your natural teeth. If you have a fixed bridge or dentures, you will need to clean under them to prevent plaque buildup along the gums. 

Contact Oral and Facial Surgery of Orange Park 

To learn more, call 904-269-5195 or contact us today to schedule an appointment. Oral and Facial Surgery of Orange Park is here to guide you through the dental implant process and answer any additional questions you may have.