If you’re wondering what to expect when receiving dental implants, we have you covered. Dental implants can restore both the appearance and functionality of a full set of teeth. This way, patients can enjoy a full set of teeth along with a smile they enjoy showing off. The process is somewhat lengthy, so knowing what to expect helps you better prepare.
Key Takeaways
- Dental Implants Have Two Surgeries, Not One
The implant post and the abutment go in at separate appointments, months apart, and most patients don’t realize that until the treatment plan is in front of them. - Three Months of Fusing After The Posts Are In
Osseointegration is the part nobody can rush; the bone has to grow around the post before anything gets attached to it. - 72 Hours of Liquid After The First Visit Is Important
What you eat in the first three days shapes how the rest of the timeline goes, and heat matters as much as texture. - Tobacco Can Affect Your Implants Fast
Smoking raises infection and bleeding risk and is one of the most common reasons an implant fails outright. - Dental Implants Are A Permanent Result, Not a Temporary Fix
The waiting is front-loaded; once the restoration is placed, an implant functions like a natural tooth and is cared for the same way, which is why most patients say the timeline was worth it.
The first appointment
Due to the structure of implants, the dental implant process requires multiple appointments and two surgeries. The first involves inserting the base or post of the dental implantss into the jawbone. If the patient receives an implant for a single tooth, the dentist will only use one post.
However, if they replace all their teeth, the dentist will insert four to six posts in the upper and lower jawbones. They will finish the appointment by suturing the gumline so the patient can begin healing.
Osseointegration
Following the first appointment, an approximate three-month healing and fusing phase begins. The post will fuse with the jawbone and act as an anchor for the rest of the implant and future restorative. The first 72 hours following a liquid diet is best. Make sure it is nothing too hot. However, patients should follow a nutrient-based soft food diet after this period. This diet can include:
- Mashed potatoes
- Tofu
- Greek yogurt
- Broths
- Scrambled eggs
- Oatmeal
- Flaky fish
Smoking or tobacco products of any kind are not permitted throughout the process and beyond. Smoking and tobacco are known to slow down healing, increase the risk of infection and bleeding, and cause implant rejection or failure.
Patient Testimonial
Dr. Shiki and Susie were great! After losing a front tooth, Dr Shiki explained the process, the time frame, the work involved and within a few days he installed the implant. I was impressed with the lack of pain invloved. They made a temporary prosthesis and in a couple of months — a new tooth! I am very grateful to both Dr. Shiki and Susie. I rate them an A+
Andrew X
The second appointment
Once the body accepts the post and the gumline heals, patients will attend their second appointment to attach the abutment. The abutment is the piece that sticks out from the gumline. To attach the abutment, the dentist will need to reopen the gumline, not the jawbone.
The dentist will likely place a temporary restorative over the abutment for protection during the second healing phase. This healing phase will not be nearly as long as the first—usually only a few weeks. During this time, patients will follow the same soft food diet to promote healing.
Last appointment
The last appointment will involve placing the chosen restorative agreed on during the candidacy process. Restoratives can include dental bridges, dental crowns, and more. Dental bridges replace one to four missing teeth in a row.
They consist of false teeth or pontics and two crowns on either side that hold them together. The number of pontics the restorative has depends on the number of teeth missing. Dental crowns replace a single tooth or cover over dental implants. Its design is a cap that completely engulfs the abutment, giving the appearance and function of a normal, healthy tooth.
The type of restoration to cover the dental implant will depend on the patient’s oral health, current needs, and other factors. Before beginning the process, a general dentist will help determine which option best meets the patient’s needs. The dentist will also go over proper aftercare instructions to ensure the patient continues to take care of their implant for years to come.
Call us for more information
Whether you need to be approved or have been approved for dental implants, we can help. Call us today to schedule an appointment to go over in more detail what you can expect during this process.
