Dental Implants: 7 Steps to a Successful Implant Surgery

Newcomers to dental implant treatment are bound to feel overwhelmed in the beginning. The dental implants procedure is rather long and multi-faceted, so that’s understandable. But it shouldn’t keep you from getting all that implants have to offer in restoring your smile’s functionality and beauty.

To give you a better understanding of this treatment, Dr. Sylvan Fain from Fain Dental Arts in Miami, Florida, has broken down the implant process into the following steps so you’ll know exactly what to expect:

Step 1 Consultation/Dental Evaluation

A consultation will be scheduled so Dr. Fain can evaluate your oral health. At this time, we’ll take X-rays to examine your bone health, review your medical history, and discuss your objectives for getting implants to determine if you’re a good candidate for this procedure. Dr. Fain will explain your implant options and how they work, so you’ll know what to expect.

Step 2 Treatment Planning/3D Diagnostics

The next step is planning your procedure. We’ll take cone-beam CT scans of your mouth to determine the best location, angle, and position for implant placement. The use of digital software and imaging makes surgery safer and more precise.

Dental Implants Smile Gallery

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Step 3 Preparatory Procedures (If Needed)

As many of our patients require some pre-surgical prep, this step is included in your treatment. Prep work may include a bone graft to increase bone density, a sinus lift, or extraction of irreparably damaged teeth.

Step 4 Implant Surgery

Implant placement is a surgical procedure requiring the use of anesthesia. Sedation is also an option. After numbing your mouth, Dr. Fain will place the implants inside your jawbone, a process that usually takes one dental visit. Afterward, you go home to rest. It’s normal to experience mild gum swelling and soreness for several days after your surgery. Cold compresses and OTC pain medication can be helpful in easing these symptoms.

Step 5 Osseointegration/Healing

Once implants are in your jaw, osseointegration begins. This is the process by which the implants gradually fuse with the surrounding bone tissue and heal. Implants are known for their lengthy recovery period, which usually lasts from 3 to 6 months. Proper osseointegration, however, is key to the long-term success of your treatment.  

Step 6 Abutment Placement/Dental Impressions

After the implants have fully healed, abutments are placed to connect them to your new teeth. Then we’ll wait a week or two for the abutments to heal. Meanwhile, Dr. Fain will take impressions of your mouth to customize implant teeth that look natural and pleasing. These restorations could be porcelain crowns, a fixed bridge, or implant dentures, depending on your treatment.

Step 7 Placement of New Teeth

Lastly, we’ll attach your restorations to the abutments to finalize your treatment. Dr. Fain will schedule follow-up checkups and cleanings to keep your new smile strong and healthy for years to come. 

Natural Looking Dental Implants Near Me

To learn more about our implant treatments, contact Dr. Sylvan Fain from Fain Dental Arts in Miami, FL today at (305) 701-4773. 

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