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How is a dental implant placed?

Dental implant procedure overview

A dental implant is a titanium screw that is placed into the jawbone. Before a dental implant procedure, Dr. Sowell will complete a thorough examination and consultation. He will take several x-rays, and he may need to take impressions for your custom crown or bridge.

During your dental implant procedure, Dr. Sowell will administer a local anesthetic. A dental implant is a surgical procedure. Most dental implant procedures can be performed in-office, however, some patients may need oral or IV sedation.

Once your anesthetic has taken effect, Dr. Sowell will make an incision in your gum tissue. Then, he will insert the dental implant into the jawbone. As your mouth begins to heal, your implant will integrate with the jawbone. This process can take several months, but patients are usually able to resume normal eating habits during this period.

Tooth-implant connection explained

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are made of titanium and other materials that are compatible with the human body.

The dental implant is installed during a minor surgical procedure in the dental office. In this procedure, the doctor opens the gum tissue and inserts a small titanium post that serves as the root. The gum tissue is then stitched back up around the the head of the post.

Over the next three to six months, the post integrates with the bone and tissue in the mouth. During this time, the patient will wear a temporary tooth replacement over the post. Once the post is completely integrated, the patient returns to the office to have a new tooth installed.

This process allows patients to restore a single tooth, multiple teeth, or an entire dental arch.

Placing the implant

Implant placement is a surgical procedure. Your dentist will numb the area with a local numbing agent. Then, he or she will make a small incision in the gum tissue. The implant is placed into the jawbone through the incision.

The implant is placed into the jawbone. The gum tissue is then stitched closed.

Healing and integration

The abutment and crown procedure can take anywhere from three to six months, depending on the patient. Once the implant is placed, the patient may experience minor discomfort or soreness for a day or two. This can be managed with over-the-counter medications.

The final result

Dental implants replace both the root and crown of a tooth. These durable titanium posts are placed in the jawbone, where they mimic your natural tooth root.

After implant placement, your jawbone fuses with the post, creating a secure foundation for your replacement tooth. A custom abutment is attached to the post, and finally, the natural-looking replacement tooth is affixed to the abutment. The result is a replacement tooth that’s both strong and aesthetically pleasing.

How to care for your new implant

Once your implant is placed, it’s completely normal to experience some tenderness, minor swelling and bruising. These symptoms will subside after a few days. In the meantime, it’s best to stick to a soft food diet. Avoid eating crunchy, chewy and hard foods, as well as sticky foods. These foods can loosen your implant and damage your surrounding gum tissue.

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