If you have missing teeth, dental implants can replace them. Implants will look, feel and function like your natural teeth, so you’ll feel more confident.

If you’re wondering how dental implants work, read on and discover the dental implant procedure step-by-step, including timeline, pain management, costs and what to expect. Get a complete guide to restoring your smile.

What Is a Dental Implant Procedure?

Dental implant surgery is a surgical procedure that replaces missing teeth with artificial teeth. The procedure involves inserting a titanium implant into the jawbone, where it acts as a root for the new tooth.

The process involves several stages, from consultation, treatment planning, implant placement, healing, and crown placement, and may take several months.

Dental Implant Procedure Step-by-Step

Step 1: Initial Evaluation

Your dentist or oral surgeon will first perform a thorough examination and assess your medical condition. He or she will then determine the best way to determine the condition of your jawbone and the best dental implant procedure.

This initial evaluation will include x-rays, taking impressions, and matching the color of your teeth to make your implant look as natural as possible. In addition, determining how many teeth you want to replace with implants.

Step 2: Implant Placement

Your dentist will numb the implant site before removing the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone. First, a pilot hole is drilled and an alignment pin is inserted to ensure that the angle and position are correct for the dental implant screw.

The hole is then enlarged to the correct size with a series of larger drills. The implant site will be regularly flushed, either with water or saline, to protect the bone tissue from any heat damage.

Step 3: Implant Placement

A special tool is used to create a “thread” in the jawbone to fit the implant thread. Some implants may be self-threading, meaning they create their own thread during implant insertion. Once placed, the implant cap closes the surgical site off from the rest of the mouth.

It is important to protect the site until the gums around the implant have healed safely. Healing times vary depending on the location of the implant site and the technique used to access the bone.

Step 4: Creating New Tooth

The dentist removes the temporary implant cap and attaches an abutment to the top of the implant post. Then, depending on the number of teeth, a crown or bridge will be attached to the abutment. The placement time for this important step in dental implants depends on the type of treatment plan you have.

Step 5: Maintaining Implant Health

The final maintenance phase is perhaps the most important to ensure the longevity of your implant. Your dentist will explain how to care for your implant and schedule future appointments to monitor your oral health regularly.

How long does a dental implant procedure take?

This surgery typically takes about 1-2 hours to place each implant. After this step is complete, most dentists wait about 3 months before making the final restoration to replace the tooth.

Is the Dental Implant Procedure Painful?

Because it is a surgical procedure, dental implants can be painful for some people, and you should expect to feel some discomfort. Of course, anesthesia or sedation is part of the process. Placing the implant requires the dentist to cut into your gums and drill a hole into the base of the bone.

Although it may seem scary, there is no pain during the procedure. The most you may feel is pressure down or up while the drilling is being done. There will be mild pain and discomfort after the anesthesia wears off and you may need to take a day or two off.

Dental implant procedure cost

Dental implants typically cost between $5,000 and $7,500 per tooth. This cost varies depending on the number and type of implants you need and the complexity of the procedure. Although this is an initial cost, dental implants are a durable, long-term solution to missing teeth.

Now that you know the steps of dental implants, it is important to take the time to talk to your dentist or surgeon to answer all your questions and understand the procedure. If you are looking for a dentist for dental implants or other dental services, contact Medconsulto today to schedule an appointment.