Single Implant Placement
The process of a single implant placement typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. The number of sessions and duration needed can vary for each individual. The surgeon will approach your case with meticulous precision and attention to detail.
Before the surgery, you might be prescribed antibiotics, and for enhanced comfort, options like intravenous sedation or nitrous oxide may be considered. These choices will be thoroughly discussed during your consultation. To minimize discomfort, a local anesthetic will be administered to numb the area where the implant is to be positioned.
Once you are at ease, the surgeon will make a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the bone, create space using specialized instruments, and gently insert the titanium implant. The top part of the implant may be visible through the gum, although in some cases, it might be preferable to cover it with gum tissue during the initial stages of healing.
Healing Post Implant Placement
The duration of the healing process varies based on individual factors such as bone quality and quantity. Immediate restoration of implants is possible in some cases. Following the initial healing phase, a brief follow-up visit involves placing an abutment or healing cap on the implant to facilitate gum tissue maturation and access to the implant.
In certain instances, impressions may be taken during implant placement to prepare the crown for when the implants heal. The healing duration depends on several factors, and one to four follow-up appointments are typically required to monitor progress and determine readiness for the restorative phase.
In some cases, a soft tissue graft may enhance gum tissue strength and appearance around the implant. This involves transferring a small amount of gum tissue from one part of the mouth to the implant area, usually a brief and comfortable procedure.
Whether replacing one tooth or all teeth, the dentist completes the restoration by fitting the replacement tooth (crown) onto the dental implant.