STEP BY STEP PROCESS FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dental implants are an effective solution for replacing missing teeth. The process typically involves several steps, which can vary slightly depending on individual patient needs and the specific circumstances.



Step by Step Process for a Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implant surgery is usually an outpatient surgery performed in stages, with healing time between procedures. The process of placing a dental implant involves multiple steps, including:

  • Damaged tooth removal
  • Jawbone grafting if needed
  • Dental implant placement
  • Bone growth and healing
  • Abutment placement
  • Artificial tooth placement
1

Evaluation and Planning

a. Initial Consultation: The first step is to schedule an initial consultation with Dr Karen Baghdsaryan who is a qualified oral surgeon and dentist with 20 years of experience in dental implant procedures. During this appointment, he will assess your oral health and present your treatment options.

b. Comprehensive Examination: X-Rays, CT scans, and digital iTERO impressions of your mouth may be taken to evaluate the condition of your jawbone, the location of the missing tooth, and the surrounding tissues. This information helps Dr. Baghdasaryan determine whether you are a suitable candidate for dental implants.

c. Treatment Plan: Based on the evaluation, a customized treatment plan will be created, outlining the number of implants needed, the type of implant, and the surgical technique to be used. This plan will also include a discussion of the timeline, costs, potential risks and the best results you can expect.

2

Implant Placement

a. Surgery: This step involves the surgical placement of the dental implant(s). This is typically done under local anesthesia or sedation to ensure your comfort during the procedure. The surgeon will make an incision in your gum tissue to access the jawbone and then drill a hole to insert the implant fixture. The implant fixture is a small, screw-like post made of biocompatible materials such as titanium, which will serve as the artificial tooth root.

b. Healing Period: After the implant is placed, a healing period is necessary to allow the bone to fuse with the implant through a process called osseointegration. This usually takes several months. During this time, a temporary crown or denture may be provided to maintain the aesthetics and functionality of your teeth.

3

Restoration

a. Abutment Placement: Once the implant has successfully integrated with the bone, a second minor surgical procedure may be necessary to attach an abutment to the implant fixture. The abutment is a connector piece that protrudes above the gumline and provides a secure anchor for the final dental restoration.

b. Final Restoration: The last step involves the placement of the final dental restoration, which can be a crown, bridge, or denture, depending on your specific needs. The restoration is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, ensuring a natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

At completion, you’ll have a functional and natural-looking tooth replacement that should last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Follow Dr Baghdasayan’s care instructions and maintain good oral hygiene to ensure the long-term success of your dental implants. For more information on what kind of dental restorations you may need, check out our page for Dental Implant Types.