What Happens During Dental Implant Surgery?

Are you excited about getting dental implants in Peoria, IL? You are probably a bit anxious about the process too…right? Well, let’s fix that right now. We are going to go over what happens during dental implant surgery. That should help ease some of that anxiety for you.

What Happens During Dental Implant Surgery?

Here is what to expect when getting dental implants. Your dentist in Peoria, IL, will go over all of this in more detail. But for now, here are the basics.

The whole process will take many months to complete and will be done in stages.

Removal of Damaged Teeth

The dentist will remove your damaged teeth. This will begin the dental implant process.

Jawbone Grafting (if needed)

Not everyone will need jawbone grafting. This is only for people whose jawbone is too soft or if it’s not thick enough. If either of these two issues is present, you will need some bone grafting.

A bone graft creates a more stable base for your new implant. The bone used for grafting can be a bone from another part of your body. It might also be a bone substitute.

Placement of the Implant

Your dentist will make a small incision to open up your gum and expose your jawbone. They will then drill a small hole into your jawbone in the location where your new dental implant post/screw will be placed. That post/screw will act like a tooth root. That’s why it’s implanted pretty deep into your jawbone. You will be given a temporary denture to fill the gap (if needed).

Bone Growth and Healing Time

Once your implant post/screw is placed into your jawbone, the waiting begins. During this time, your jaw will grow new bone around the implant. This usually takes several months. But it will provide a stable foundation for your new artificial tooth. It will be just as stable as a natural tooth once completed.

Attach the Abutment

After your jaw has healed, new bone has grown around your implant, and you have a solid base for your new artificial tooth, it’s time to add the abutment. The abutment is the piece that is placed on your implant to hold your new artificial tooth in place.

Artificial Tooth Placement

Your dentist will then add your artificial tooth to the abutment, and your new dental implant will be complete.

Looking for an Exceptional Dentist in Peoria, IL?

Your dentist will be there for you during every step of the dental implant process. But if you have some questions or concerns or would just like a little more information first, please Contact Valerin Dental. We would be happy to help!