The Dental Implant Process in Sierra Vista, AZ

How Dental Implant Procedures Work

Initial Consultation

The first step in receiving dental implants is to schedule an initial consultation with our dentist in Sierra Vista. During this appointment, we’ll examine your mouth and take digital X-rays to determine if you’re a good candidate for treatment. Dr. Hales will also discuss your medical history and any medications you’re taking to make sure the implant surgery is safe for you.

Supplemental Procedures

For some patients, additional procedures may be recommended before they can move forward with replacing missing teeth with dental implants. Procedures such as bone grafting and soft tissue grafting are common for those suffering from low jawbone density or who have underlying oral health conditions such as gum disease. 

Specifically, a bone graft may be necessary when the jawbone is not thick enough or is too soft to support the implant effectively. This procedure involves adding bone or bone-like material to the jaw to create a more solid base for the implant, ensuring it has better anchorage for the new teeth.

These supplemental procedures can be performed before or during the implant process, depending on the patient’s needs and the complexity of their case. Dr. Hales will evaluate your specific situation and determine if a bone graft or any additional procedures are necessary to ensure the success of your dental implant procedure.

In some cases, dental implants may not be right for you. Our dental specialists may recommend other restorative dentistry treatments, such as removable dentures or a dental bridge.

Implant Surgery

The implant surgery is typically an outpatient procedure performed while the patient is under local anesthesia, though some patients may opt for IV sedation for added comfort. Sedation options are thoroughly discussed during the initial consultation.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons, with their extensive expertise in oral and maxillofacial surgery, play a crucial role in this process. They make a small incision in the gums and, using advanced technology such as 3D scanning or laser technology, precisely place the implant post into the jawbone.

The oral surgeon ensures the implant is correctly inserted to bond with the bone, a key step for the success of the procedure. The post will then be left to heal and integrate with the bone in the coming months, requiring multiple appointments to monitor the fusion of the implant with the jawbone and to proceed with attaching new teeth.

Recovery Period

During the recovery period, the post will begin the process of osseointegration. Osseointegration is a natural process where the bone around the implant post begins to fuse with the jawbone. This process is essential for the implant to be secure and stable. It takes several months for osseointegration to be completed.

The healing time for osseointegration varies for each patient, but you can return to your normal routine after a few days. Make sure to stick to a soft foods diet and follow any instructions provided. You may have some discomfort or swelling for a few days to a week.

Remember, each patient heals differently, so the entire dental implant timeline will fluctuate for each person. 

Final Restoration Placement

Once the post has fully integrated with the jawbone, you’ll return to our Sierra Vista dental office for the final restoration placement appointment. Your custom restoration, a dental crown, bridge, or supported denture will be ready for placement. The final restoration will be securely attached to the post to look and function just like a natural tooth. You’ll leave our dental office with a brand-new, beautiful smile that you’ll love.  

After Your Dental Implant Surgery

After your dental implant surgery, it’s essential to take great care of your oral hygiene to ensure proper healing and reduce your chance of complications arising. Here are some tips to help you out after oral surgery:

• Follow your Sierra Vista dentist’s instructions
• Manage pain and swelling with cold compresses and over-the-counter pain medications
• Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol
• Eat soft foods and avoid anything hard, crunchy, or spicy
• Practice good oral hygiene
• Attend follow-up appointments

To learn more about post-op dental implant care, Dr. Hales has created a detailed guide to assist you with a speedy recovery. You can also contact our practice by calling (520) 458-9460 and our team will answer your questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I need to have any teeth removed before getting an implant?

No, not necessarily. In some cases, dental implants can be placed directly into the jawbone without the need to remove any existing teeth. However, if there aren’t enough healthy teeth or if the jawbone is too thin or weak, tooth extraction may be necessary before the implant surgery.

How long does the entire dental implant process take?

On average, the dental implant process takes about four to six months. The implant surgery itself takes just a few hours during one appointment, but the post needs time to heal and integrate with the jawbone before your dentist places the final restoration, typically a dental crown or bridge. Osseointegration can take anywhere from three to six months and is a crucial step as this is when your implant post naturally fuses with your jawbone.

Is the dental implant procedure painful?

Most patients report little to no pain during the dental implant procedure. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area, or your dentist may offer alternative dental sedation options depending on your needs. After the implant procedure, patients usually manage any discomfort or swelling with over-the-counter medications. 

What is the purpose of dental implants?

The purpose of dental implants is to replace a missing tooth or teeth with artificial teeth, such as replacement teeth called crowns, that are attached to titanium posts anchored to the jaw. Unlike dentures, these artificial teeth offer a realistic look, sturdiness, and convenience, preventing further bone deterioration and preserving facial structure.

When a tooth is lost because of injury, decay, or other reasons, it can hurt a person’s oral health and quality of life. Dental implants provide a permanent, durable replacement tooth, improving your natural teeth’ function and appearance.

Start Your Smile Journey With Dental Implants in Sierra Vista, AZ

Do you still have questions about the dental implant procedure? Contact our Sierra Vista, AZ, dentist today. With years of experience in implant dentistry, Dr. Kent Hales will answer any questions you have about the dental procedure and help you determine if dental implants are right for you.

Call our dental office at (520) 458-9460 to schedule your dental implant consultation.

BEFORE AND AFTER GALLERY