Implant Placement
The placement of a dental implant typically requires 30 to 60 minutes for one implant and 2 to 3 hours for multiple implants. However, the number of appointments and duration may vary for each patient. During the procedure, the oral surgeon will pay close attention to every detail to ensure the highest level of precision.
Before your surgery, antibiotics may be given to prevent infections. Additionally, for added comfort, you may be offered intravenous sedation or nitrous oxide (commonly known as laughing gas). These options will be thoroughly discussed with you during your consultation appointment. To ensure that you do not experience any pain in the area where the dental implant will be inserted, a local anesthetic will be applied.
Once you are comfortable, the surgeon will proceed to make a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone. Special tools will be used to create space, and the titanium implant will be carefully placed. Depending on the situation, the top of the implant may be visible through the gum or covered by the gum tissue during the initial healing process.
Recovering From Dental Implant Surgery
The healing process has begun and its duration depends on the quality and quantity of an individual's bones. In some cases, implants can be restored immediately after placement, with the surgeon providing instructions for follow-up care and timing. After the initial healing phase, a short follow-up appointment is scheduled where the surgeon will attach an abutment or healing cap to the dental implant, aiding in gum tissue maturation and providing access to the implant.
To ensure the crown is prepared in advance, impressions may be taken during the implant placement process, allowing sufficient time for complete healing. The healing time for your mouth may vary based on different factors. Typically, one to four follow-up appointments will be required to assess healing progress and determine when the restorative phase of treatment can proceed.
A soft tissue graft can offer several benefits in obtaining gum tissue around the implant, resulting in stronger, easier-to-clean, and more aesthetically pleasing gum tissue. This involves transferring a small portion of gum tissue from one part of the mouth to the implant site, usually a swift and relatively painless process.
Whether replacing one tooth or multiple teeth, your dentist will ensure a proper fit of the replacement tooth (crown) to the dental implant.
Dental Implants Are Usually Inserted At What Time?
Implants are typically placed a few months after tooth extraction, but in some cases, they can be placed immediately after extraction, although this carries a slightly higher risk. The advantage of immediate implant placement is that it simplifies the process and eliminates the need for an extra appointment. However, if there are concerns about infection or bone complications, immediate implant placement is not recommended.
When a tooth is missing for a long time, the surrounding bone that provides support tends to decrease and become thinner. This happens because the bone relies on the natural tooth's root to stimulate its growth. Within a year after tooth extraction, about one third of the jaw's thickness can be lost. If there is not enough bone, a bone graft procedure may be necessary in the affected area. This ensures that the implant will have sufficient support when it is placed in the jaw.
How Many Implants Are Required?
Typically, a single implant is used to replace each missing tooth. However, for larger teeth towards the back of the mouth that have multiple roots, it is common to use larger implants for replacing missing back teeth.
Schedule An Appointment For Dental Implants in Woodbridge Today!
To learn more about dental implant placement and full-mouth restorations, contact our dental office in Woodbridge, VA, at (703) 670-2114 to schedule an appointment today!