Safe Dental Implant Surgery in Hilliard
The idea of undergoing a surgical procedure can be daunting or overwhelming. However, our Hilliard dentist provides safe and comfortable dental implant surgery for those needing to replace one missing tooth or multiple missing teeth.
If you’re ready to see if dental implants are best for you, contact Fishinger Dental in Hilliard today by calling (614) 771-6060 and setting up an appointment. Dr. Nathan Desai is one of the best dentists in Hilliard and will ensure your smile goals are met.
How Dental Implant Procedures Work
Initial Consultation and Evaluation
The first step in getting dental implants is to schedule a comprehensive dental exam and consultation with an experienced implant dentist or oral surgeon. During this appointment, our Hilliard dentist will evaluate your oral health, take X-rays or 3D scans, review your medical history, and discuss any medications you’re taking to determine if you’re a suitable candidate for dental implants.
Your dentist will assess several factors, including:
- Jawbone density and quality
- Presence of periodontal disease or gum disease
- Tooth decay or other oral health issues
- Medical conditions that may affect healing or osseointegration (the process of the implant fusing with the jawbone)
If you have inadequate bone density or other potential complications, your dentist may recommend bone grafting or sinus augmentation procedures before proceeding with the implant surgery.
Supplemental Procedures
For some patients, additional procedures may be recommended before they can move forward with replacing missing teeth with dental implants. Procedures such as bone grafting and soft tissue grafting are common for those suffering from low jawbone density or who have underlying oral health conditions, such as gum disease.
These supplemental procedures can be performed before or during the implant process, depending on the patient’s needs and the complexity of their case. Dr. Desai will evaluate your specific situation and determine if any additional procedures are necessary to ensure the success of your dental implant procedure.
In some cases, dental implants may not be right for you. Our dental specialists may recommend other restorative dentistry treatments, such as removable dentures or a dental bridge.
Implant Surgery
The dental implant surgery is typically an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia, though some patients may choose IV sedation for added comfort. Sedation options are discussed at the initial consultation.
During the procedure, the oral surgeon or periodontist will make a small incision in the gums to expose the jawbone and carefully drill a precise hole into it. They will then place the implant post, usually made of titanium or zirconia, into the hole. This post acts as an artificial tooth root, providing a sturdy foundation for the replacement tooth, such as a crown, bridge, or denture.
After placing the implant, the surgeon will stitch the gum tissue closed over the implant site to protect it during the healing process. In some cases, the surgery may be assisted by advanced technologies like 3D scanning or laser technology. The post will be left to heal and integrate with the bone over the coming months.
Recovery Period
During the recovery period, the post will begin the process of osseointegration. Osseointegration is a natural process where the bone around the implant post begins to fuse with the jawbone. This process is essential for the implant to be secure and stable. It takes several months for osseointegration to be completed.
The healing time for osseointegration varies for each patient, but you’ll be able to return to your normal routine after a few days. Make sure to stick to a soft food diet and follow any instructions provided. You may have some discomfort or swelling for a few days to a week.
Remember, each patient heals differently, so the entire dental implant timeline will fluctuate for each person.
Final Restoration Placement
Once the osseointegration process is complete (typically three to six months after the implant surgery), you’ll return to our Hilliard dental office for the final step: placing the permanent restoration (crown, bridge, or denture).
During this appointment, your dentist will attach an abutment (a small connector piece) to the implant post. The custom-made restoration will then be secured to the abutment, providing you with a natural-looking and fully functional replacement tooth or teeth.
Your dentist will ensure that the restoration fits comfortably and blends seamlessly with your surrounding natural teeth, restoring your smile and ability to chew and speak with confidence.
After Your Dental Implant Surgery
After your dental implant surgery, it’s essential to take great care of your oral hygiene to ensure proper healing and reduce your chance of complications arising. Here are some tips to help you out after oral surgery:
- Follow your dentist’s instructions
- Manage pain and swelling with cold compresses and over-the-counter pain medications
- Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol
- Eat soft foods and avoid anything hard, crunchy, or spicy
- Practice good oral hygiene
- Attend follow-up appointments
To learn more about post-op dental implant care, our Hilliard dentist has created a detailed guide to assist you with a speedy recovery. You can also contact our practice by calling (614) 771-6060, and our team will answer your questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I need to have any teeth removed before getting an implant?
No, not necessarily. In some cases, dental implants can be placed directly into the jawbone without the need to remove any existing teeth. However, if there aren’t enough healthy teeth or if the jawbone is too thin or weak, tooth extraction may be necessary before the implant surgery.
How long does the entire dental implant process take?
On average, the dental implant process takes about four to six months. The implant surgery itself takes just a few hours during one appointment, but the post needs time to heal and integrate with the jawbone before your dentist places the final restoration, typically a dental crown or bridge. Osseointegration can take anywhere from three to six months and is a crucial step, as this is when your implant post naturally fuses with your jawbone.
Is the dental implant procedure painful?
Most patients report little to no pain during the dental implant procedure. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area, or your dentist may offer alternative dental sedation options depending on your needs. After the implant procedure, patients usually manage any discomfort or swelling with over-the-counter medications.
What is the purpose of dental implants?
The purpose of dental implants is to replace a missing tooth or teeth. When a tooth is lost because of injury, decay, or other reasons, it can hurt a person’s oral health and quality of life. Dental implants provide a permanent, durable replacement tooth, improving your natural teeth’ function and appearance.
Start Your Smile Journey With Dental Implants
Do you still have questions about the dental implant procedure? Contact our Hilliard dentist today. With years of experience in implant dentistry, they’ll answer any questions you may have about the dental procedure and help you determine if dental implants are right for you.
Call our dental office at (614) 771-6060 to schedule your appointment. We welcome new and returning patients from Columbus, Dublin, Upper Arlington, Grove City, Westerville, and surrounding areas in Ohio.
