Most people know that dental implants are a great option to replace missing teeth. But if you have never had one before, the process can feel a little intimidating. You might be wondering what actually happens. How long does it take? Does it hurt?
At Stonehenge Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Cynthia Elderkin, Dr. Claudel Giggey, and Dr. Olivia Smith walk patients through the dental implant process in Raleigh, NC, every day. If you are thinking about dental implants, here is what you can expect from start to finish.
Step 1: Your First Visit
Everything starts with a consultation. This is where our dentist checks your mouth and determines whether implants are a good option for you.
Dr. Elderkin will look at your teeth, gums, and jawbone. She will take X-rays or 3D images to get a clear picture of what is going on underneath the surface. These images help her see if you have enough bone to support an implant.
If your bone is too thin or too soft, you may need a bone graft first. That just means adding a little bone material to strengthen the area. It is a common step and nothing to worry about.
Our dentist will also ask about your health history and any medications you take. This helps make sure the procedure is safe for you.
Step 2: Your Treatment Plan
Once our dentist has all the information, she will create a treatment plan just for you. This plan lays out how many implants you need, what kind, and how long each step will take. Our dentist will go over the plan with you and answer any questions you have.
This is also when you will talk about costs and payment options. There are no surprises. You will know exactly what to expect before you start.
Step 3: Placing the Implant
On the day of the procedure, our dentist will numb the area so you do not feel any pain. If you are nervous, sedation options are available to help you relax.
Once you are comfortable, our dentist makes a small opening in your gum to reach the jawbone. Then she drills a tiny hole in the bone and places the titanium post inside. The post acts like a new tooth root.
After the implant is in place, our dentist stitches the gum closed. The whole surgery usually takes one to two hours.
Afterward, you might feel some swelling or soreness. That is normal. Our dentist will give you instructions on how to manage it.
Step 4: Healing and Bone Growth
This is the longest part of the dental implant process in our Raleigh NC office. The implant needs time to fuse with your jawbone. This is called osseointegration.
It usually takes three to six months. During that time, your bone grows around the implant and locks it in place. This is what makes implants so strong and stable.
While you heal, you will need to take good care of your mouth. Brush and floss gently and avoid smoking, because it can slow down healing. And keep your follow-up appointments so our dentist can check your progress.
Step 5: Adding the Abutment
Once your implant is fully fused with the bone, you are ready for the next step. Our dentist will place a small piece called an abutment on top of the implant. The abutment acts as a connector between the implant and your new tooth.
To do this, our dentist makes a small cut in your gum to expose the implant. She attaches the abutment and then lets the gum heal around it.
This part is much quicker than the implant surgery. It usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Your gum will need a couple of weeks to heal before the final step.
Step 6: Getting Your New Tooth
The last step is attaching your new tooth, which is called a dental crown. The crown is custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth. No one will ever know it is not your real tooth.
Our dentist takes impressions of your teeth to make sure the crown fits perfectly. Once it is ready, she attaches it to the abutment. And just like that, your implant is complete.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
So why go through all of this? Because dental implants Raleigh NC offer benefits that other options just cannot match. Dental implants:
- Look natural: No one will know you have an implant unless you tell them.
- Last a long time: With good care, implants can last 20 years or more. A dental bridge or denture needs to be replaced much sooner.
- Protect your bone: When you lose a tooth, your jawbone starts to shrink. Implants stop that from happening because they stimulate the bone just like natural roots.
- Provide easy maintenance: You brush and floss them just like your real teeth. No special cleaners or soaking.
- Give you confidence: You can eat, speak, and smile without worrying about your teeth slipping or clicking.
Most healthy adults are good candidates for implants. The most important thing is having enough bone in your jaw to support the post. If you do not, a bone graft can help.
Smoking and uncontrolled diabetes can make implants riskier. We will review your health history and let you know if implants are right for you.
Begin Your Implant Treatment Today
If you are missing a tooth and want a permanent solution, dental implants Raleigh NC could be the right choice for you. Now you know what the dental implant process looks like. The next step is a consultation.
We use advanced technology and techniques to provide the best outcomes. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about implant dentistry.