Understanding the Dental Implant Procedure: A Step-By-Step Guide

If you’re considering dental implants to replace missing teeth, you might be curious about what the procedure entails. From the initial consultation to the final placement, here’s a step-by-step guide to the dental implant process.

Step 1: Initial Consultation, Examination, and Treatment plan

During your first visit, your dentist will carry out a comprehensive dental examination. This includes dental X-rays and, in some cases, a dental CT scan to assess your jawbone health and determine if you’re a suitable candidate for dental implants. When your dentist confirms that dental implants are a viable solution, a personalized treatment plan will be developed. This plan considers factors like the number of teeth you need replaced and your overall oral health.

Step 2: Bone Grafting (If Necessary)

If your jawbone isn’t thick enough you may need bone grafting. This procedure involves adding bone (or a bone-like material) to your jaw to support the implants. The healing process can take 3-4 months and sometimes it can be done during the time of implant placement.

Step 4: Placing the Dental Implant

During the implant placement procedure, your dentist will insert a titanium post into your jawbone. This serves as the “root” of your new tooth. You’ll then need to wait for the jawbone to heal and grow around the implant, a process that can take 3-4 months as well.

Step 5: Placing the Abutment and Crown

Once your jawbone has healed, your dentist can place the abutment and crown and you will have a brand new tooth and or teeth that were previously missing!

If you are interested in learning more about the individual parts of a dental implant you can check out our blog post!