The Surgical Procedure
Dental Implant Presentation
To provide you with a better understanding of dental implants, we have provided the following multimedia presentation. Many common questions pertaining to dental implants are discussed.
Having trouble? Please make sure you have version 9 of the Flash browser plugin in order to correctly view this presentation. This software is available as a free download.
The Surgical Procedure
For
most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical
procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. Healing time
following surgery varies from person to person and is based on a
variety of factors, such as hardness of bone. In some cases, implants
may be restored immediately after they are placed.
For the first three to six months following the surgery,
dental implants are beneath the surface of the gums gradually bonding
with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures or a
temporary fixed bridge. At the same time, your restorative dentist or we
design the final bridgework or denture that will ultimately improve
both function and aesthetics.
After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. Dr. John will uncover the implants and attach a small healing collar. After two weeks we will be able to start making your new teeth. An impression must be taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The teeth replacements are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.