How are dental implants done?

For patients that have cracked, missing, or broken teeth, dental implants help give them a beautiful natural looking smile. Dental Implants are highly successful, and last upwards of 25 years to a lifetime if cared for properly. Implants give patients a permanent solution for teeth restoration and they not only are aesthetically pleasing, but also feel comfortable in the mouth. Implants allow patients to eat, speak and live their life like they would with natural teeth.

At all of our four greater Miami locations, Centers for Dental Implants offers dental implant services as well as dental implant restoration services. If you are interested in a permanent solution for tooth replacement, or have previously had implant surgery and are in need of implant restoration we are happy to help.

Consultation:

Our team will meet with each patient to discuss any goals or concerns, and we will devise a custom treatment plan that fits each patient’s needs. We will give an overview of the implant process and answer any questions. It is important that patients understand all steps of the procedure, and feel calm and relaxed knowing what to expect.

Overall Procedure:

During the implant procedure, implants are placed in the jawbone and are similar to tooth roots. Once this is done there is a healing period where osseointegration must occur to allow the jawbone to grow around the implant. This provides the needed support for the implants. Once the healing process is complete, an abutment or connector is used and placed on top of the implant. This holds the artificial tooth or crown in place. Crowns are customized to match the size, shape and color of your natural teeth. Temporary crowns may be used while you wait for your permanent crown to be installed. Typically dental implants may take multiple appointments, but this depends on the case and amount of work needed.

Bone Grafting:

Part of our evaluation process involves determining if the patient has enough bone present in the jawbone to support the implant. Dr. Garg is world renowned for bone grafting and implant dentistry with over 25 years of experience. If bone grafting is done, bone is taken from another area or synthetic bone material is used and added to the area. With bone grafting, there is additional healing time needed as the bone grows and fuses to the area.

Placing the implant:

Once any grafting is complete, small holes are created where the dental post will be placed. The implant is then placed in the jawbone. After healing is complete, an abutment is used to connect the artificial teeth or crowns to the implant. Temporary crowns are used while patients wait for their permanent crown to be installed.

Recovery:

Local anesthesia is used to keep patients calm and relaxed during the implant procedure. After the procedure, we may recommend pain medications and antibiotics to help with recovery. Patients may notice some bruising or swelling around the mouth or implant area, but this should subside. Minor bleeding may occur, but this will go away after a few days.  Good oral hygiene is extremely important in keeping dental implants healthy. Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for our natural teeth with brushing and flossing daily.

If you are interested in finding out more about dental implants or dental implant restoration, contact one of our four locations today to schedule your appointment.