Dental Implant Procedure: What to Expect Before, During, and After

Dental implants are a reliable, long-term solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring both function and confidence. If you are considering dental implants, it is natural to have questions about what the procedure involves. Understanding each stage of the process can help you feel informed and prepared.

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are typically made from titanium, that are surgically placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. Once healed, they provide a stable foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures that look, feel, and function like natural teeth.

Types of Dental Implants

Dental implants can be tailored to different needs depending on how many teeth are missing and your oral health.

• Single-Tooth Dental Implant: Used to replace one missing tooth, this option restores appearance and function without affecting neighbouring teeth and reduces the risk of teeth drifting into the space.

• Implant-Retained Dentures: Ideal for patients missing multiple teeth or full arch of teeth missing, implant-retained dentures provide greater stability and comfort than traditional removable dentures.

• All-on-Four Dental Implants: This technique uses four strategically placed implants to support a full arch of teeth, offering a fixed and efficient solution for extensive tooth loss.

• All-on-Six Dental Implants: Similar to All-on-Four, this approach uses six implants for added support and durability, often recommended for patients with higher bite forces or adequate bone density.

Before the Dental Implant Procedure

Initial Consultation and Assessment

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. During this appointment, your dentist will:

• Review your medical and dental history

• Examine your mouth, gums, and jawbone

• Take initial digital X-rays or Intra Oral scans

• Discuss your treatment goals and expectations

This assessment helps determine whether dental implants are suitable for you and which type of implant best meets your needs. A personalised treatment plan is created based on your oral health and the number of teeth being replaced. In some cases, preparatory treatments such as CBCT scan, tooth extraction, bone grafting, or gum treatment may be required before implant placement.

During the Dental Implant Procedure

The dental implant procedure is usually performed under local anaesthetic to ensure you remain comfortable throughout. During the treatment, the dentist makes a small incision in the gum to access the jawbone, carefully places the implant into position, and then closes the gum over or around the implant to protect the area while it heals. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during this stage and are often surprised by how straightforward the procedure feels.

After the implant has been placed, a healing period is required to allow the implant to bond with the jawbone. This process, known as osseointegration, is essential for creating a strong and stable foundation for the replacement tooth. Healing typically takes several weeks to a few months, depending on individual factors such as bone health and overall healing response, and plays a crucial role in the long-term success of the implant.

Recovery and Aftercare

Mild swelling, tenderness, or bruising is normal for a few days following surgery. Your dentist will provide detailed aftercare instructions, which may include:

• Managing discomfort with prescribed or over-the-counter medication

• Maintaining good oral hygiene

• Eating softer foods during initial healing

• Attending follow-up appointments

Final Restoration

Once the dental implant(s) has fully integrated, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached. This final restoration is designed to match your natural teeth in shape and colour, restoring your smile and bite function.

Benefits of Dental Implants

• Long-lasting and durable tooth replacement

• Improved chewing and speech

• Natural appearance and feel

• Helps preserve jawbone and facial structure

• No reliance on adjacent teeth for support

Get Expert Dental Implant Care at Priors Hall Dental

Dental implants are a highly effective way to restore missing teeth and improve overall oral health. By understanding what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, you can approach treatment with confidence. With proper care, dental implants can provide a comfortable, functional, and natural-looking solution for many years.

If you are considering dental implants or would like to explore your treatment options, Priors Hall Dental is here to help. Contact our practice in Corby, UK, by calling 01536 214144 to book an appointment today.