Contact Us: 415.397.1400Dental implants are a common solution for replacing missing teeth, providing a permanent and natural-looking alternative to dentures or bridges. The process involves a series of precise surgical steps to ensure the implant integrates seamlessly with the jawbone and supports a prosthetic tooth. Today we are diving into the surgical process to better understand the complexities involved so that you can proceed with confidence.
1. Pre-Surgical Planning
Before the oral surgery begins, thorough planning is essential. Our surgeon will evaluate your dental and medical history, conduct X-rays, and use 3D imaging to map the jawbone structure. This planning helps to identify the ideal implant placement, determine bone density and assess if any bone grafting is necessary. Bone grafts are common for patients with insufficient bone mass in their jaw and are performed months before the implant surgery to allow for adequate healing.
2. The Initial Incision
On the day of surgery, you will receive anesthesia to ensure optimal comfort levels. Typically, local anesthesia is administered, but sedation may also be used for those who are anxious about the procedure. Once you are comfortably numb, our surgeon makes an incision in the gum tissue to expose the jawbone. This incision allows direct access to the implant site.
3. Preparing the Implant Site
With the bone exposed, our surgeon uses specialized drills to create a small, precise hole in the jawbone. This step is crucial because the hole’s depth and diameter must match the implant’s specifications. Careful attention is given to avoid any damage to surrounding nerves or sinuses, especially in areas with a thinner bone structure.
Our surgeon starts with a small drill bit to create a guide hole, gradually increasing the drill size to widen the hole to the implant’s exact measurements. This drilling process generates heat, so irrigation is used throughout the process to keep the bone cool and prevent overheating, which could compromise bone health and impede implant success.
4. Placing the Dental Implant
Once the bone is prepared, our surgeon will insert the titanium implant screw into the hole. This implant acts as a new “root” for your prosthetic tooth. Using a tool that resembles a small torque wrench, our surgeon carefully screws the implant into place. The implant is anchored to the bone but left slightly exposed above the gumline. Titanium is chosen for its biocompatibility, meaning it integrates well with bone tissue without causing adverse reactions.
5. Osseointegration
After the implant is placed, the gum tissue is sutured around it, leaving the implant submerged or slightly exposed. This starts the healing phase known as osseointegration, where the jawbone grows around and fuses with the implant surface, creating a stable foundation. This process typically takes three to six months, during which the implant becomes firmly embedded in the bone.
6. Placing the Abutment and Final Prosthetic
Once osseointegration is complete, a second minor surgery may be needed to expose the implant and attach an abutment, a small connector piece between the implant and the prosthetic crown. The gums are then given time to heal around the abutment. After a few weeks, the final crown is placed onto the abutment, completing the dental implant process.
Conclusion
As you can see, oral surgery for dental implants involves meticulous planning and multiple stages to ensure a strong, lasting bond between the implant and jawbone. While the process requires patience and precision, the result is a permanent, natural-looking restoration that can last a lifetime with proper care. Your smile deserves long-lasting results with a smile you can be proud of!
