Dental Implant Surgery
Dental implant surgery procedure
At Cedar Grove Dental Group, we specialize in dental implant surgery, where we place the implant into the jawbone to act as the root of the replacement tooth. This procedure ensures long-term stability for the implant, making it the closest option to a natural tooth. Our team follows a consistent process, assisting patients with preparation before the surgery and providing follow-up care afterward. If you have any questions or want more information on the steps involved, please call us at (973) 857-0567 to schedule a consultation.
Consultation for Dental Implant Surgery
Patients often experience different levels of anxiety before undergoing dental implant surgery. Learning more about the preparation, procedure, and post-operative care can help alleviate some of these concerns. During the initial consultation, we are available to address any questions or worries that patients may have about the process.
Our team will conduct a thorough examination of the patient's mouth and evaluate their oral and physical health. X-rays will be taken to determine the optimal placement of the implant and assess the readiness of the jaw bone to support it. It is important for patients to inform us about any medications they are taking or medical conditions they have, as these factors can impact the success of the surgery and the healing process.
“It is common for patients to experience varying levels of anxiety before dental implant surgery.”
Prior to the surgery for placing implants
Loss of teeth can be caused by tooth decay, gum disease, or mouth injuries. However, having missing teeth does not mean that you cannot maintain a healthy mouth. It is important for patients to have good oral health before undergoing surgery, and additional treatments such as bone grafting may be recommended in preparation for dental implant surgery.
Each patient's experience may vary based on factors such as the number of teeth being replaced, the type of implant used, and the overall oral health of the patient. We will guide the patient through each step of the process.
Bone grafting becomes necessary when there is insufficient healthy bone in the jaw to support the implant. Other potential pre-surgery treatments may include addressing gum disease or getting dental fillings. Once the patient is ready for surgery, we will provide them with detailed instructions to follow, especially for the night before the procedure. These instructions may include avoiding certain foods, fasting overnight, and ensuring a good night's sleep.
“Each patient may have a different experience based on several factors. These include the number of teeth we are replacing, the type of implant, and the patient’s overall oral health.”
What to expect during dental implant placement
During dental implant surgery, the surgeon will create an incision in the gums where the missing tooth used to be. They will then drill into the jawbone and place the dental implant post deep inside. This post, along with the surrounding bone, will provide the necessary support for the artificial tooth.
The artificial tooth will not be placed immediately, as it needs time to fuse with the surrounding bone in a process called osseointegration. This typically takes a few months. In the meantime, there will be a gap where the missing tooth (or teeth) was. Your dentist may suggest a temporary replacement tooth until the implant is fully integrated and ready for the final placement of the abutment and artificial tooth.
“The implant is essentially in the same place the root of the natural tooth was.”
After surgery, attend follow-up appointments.
After dental implant surgery, it is common to experience minor swelling, soreness, and bleeding of the gums. To help with the recovery process, patients can follow certain home care techniques. It is important to avoid foods that may irritate the implant site, such as hard-to-chew foods, very hot or cold items, and those with high sugar content. Drinking water is recommended over sugary beverages like soft drinks, tea, and coffee. Follow-up check-up visits may be necessary to ensure the success of the implant surgery and prevent any complications.
“Fortunately, there are certain post-surgery home care techniques the patient can implement to make the recovery process as effortless as possible.”
Dangers of Dental Implant Surgery
Dental implant surgery has a high success rate with rare complications that can be easily managed with prompt dental care. The primary complications include nerve damage or injury to an adjacent tooth, but we will take every precaution to prevent these issues. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that oral surgery can increase the risk of infection, but we will provide detailed instructions on recovery, including good oral hygiene and medication to prevent infection.
The failure rate of dental implant surgery is low, ranging from 5-10%. Bone loss is a common cause of failure, but can be addressed through bone grafting to prepare the jaw. While this may add time to the process, it significantly improves the chances of a successful outcome.
