If you need a tooth extraction, are a missing tooth, or perhaps you need a whole upper arch, lower arch, or both, the best decision you can make is to get dental implants. No matter what you’ve heard or read, implant dentistry is a simple process, especially when you rely on the knowledge of our SF doctors. Of course, it helps to understand exactly what you should expect throughout the process. Our doctors will thoroughly explain every step in detail during your initial consultation, but we’ve highlighted some of the main components of the process here.
Pre-Operative Steps
The first step of implant dentistry is getting x-rays, panoramic X-rays, or a 3D CT scan to evaluate your teeth, jaw structure, bone, and gum condition, and to detect any abnormalities that can’t be seen with the naked eye. Our doctors will then make impressions of your mouth to get a replica of your gums, teeth, and tissues. This is a critical step to ensure the implant looks, feels, and acts as closely to your natural teeth as possible.
The Tooth Extraction Process
Assuming your problem tooth is still in place, we will then extract the tooth. Our oral surgeons can do the extraction during your implant surgery. This is a quick and easy process, especially if the tooth is not already fractured to some degree. Our doctors will recommend anesthesia to minimize any amount of discomfort during the procedure.
Getting the Dental Implants
First, your San Fransisco oral surgeon will drill a hole into your jawbone. Sometimes your oral surgeon will make an incision in your gum to expose the bone. If this is part of your treatment plan, your dentist will discuss how they will suture the tissue after the procedure. The most critical part of implant dentistry is ensuring that the implant is deeply fixed into your jawbone because you need an artificial root for your new tooth to rest upon and without a root, your jawbone will begin to resorb.
Your jawbone will have to heal completely in order to fuse together with the implant. This process can vary in duration, and sometimes it’s difficult to predict the amount of time since every San Francisco patient is different. Once the jawbone has healed, an abutment is placed on top of the implant and tightened. Then your permanent crown will be installed to complete the implant dentistry process.
The Healing Process
Having proper expectations when it comes to recovery is important to have a successful implant dentistry experience. You should expect to take it easy for at least a few days or a couple of weeks following the procedure to promote proper healing. Our doctors will provide you with a detailed guide to what you should and should not do, and ensure all of your questions are answered to help you heal quickly.
SF Oral Surgery wants to ensure our San Francisco patients know precisely what they can expect when undergoing any implant dentistry procedure. All of our San Francisco patients are treated uniquely since each person has different needs.
To learn more about implant dentistry and whether it’s the best choice for you, contact us today to set up a consultation. We look forward to meeting you.
