Dental implant surgery is a popular method used to replace broken, decaying, and missing teeth. It involves the insertion of a metal post into the jawbone instead of the root of the tooth. Before the procedure, it is important to go through preoperative evaluations with different specialists to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. Once you feel comfortable and ready, the provider will make a small incision in the gum tissue to access the bone, open up the area with dental tools, and then insert the implant post into the jaw instead of the root of the tooth.
Dental implant systems use materials that meet international consensus standards set by the International Organization for Standardization or ASTM International. After dental implant surgery, patients must take extra care of the area surrounding their new implant. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics before or after the procedure. If you are given antibiotics, make sure to finish your prescription to help prevent infections.
Healing times will vary from patient to patient. The recovery time will depend on your individual case and treatment plan. Your dentist will schedule follow-up appointments accordingly. You will be asked to visit your dental team 2 to 3 weeks after surgery.
This appointment will allow them to examine the implant sites and make sure everything is healing properly. During this 3 to 6 month recovery period, they will replace the metal posts and final restoration, which will help you fully restore your smile. During this consultation, your provider will reopen the incision to expose the implant. Your dentist will then attach an abutment to the implant and take an impression needed for placing the crown. Once the implant is cured, they will create a custom-made dental crown and place it over the dental implant. Now that you have a better understanding of what happens after dental implant surgery, you can prepare for what lies ahead.
If you experience any reactions, do not hesitate to contact your dental office for further instructions. Dr. McVety and his team want you to be confident in their decision to replace missing teeth with dental implants. Periimplantitis is a disease that involves inflammation of the gum tissue and bone around dental implants, which leads to loss of supporting bone.
