Understanding the Basic Timeline for Dental Implant Treatments

Dental implant treatments are one of the best options for replacing missing teeth. Patients can choose from several options when considering implant procedures. Replacements can be done for a single tooth, multiple teeth and even an entire row of teeth if needed.

Dental implants can help to restore your natural smile. The first step involves working closely with your preferred dentist to develop the right treatment plan. Because dental implant treatments are a process, a timeline is also agreed upon.

Here is what a typical dental implant treatment plan timeline looks like.

The Referral

The first step involves getting a referral from your dentist to an oral surgeon. With this referral, you get to work closely with the surgeon to make the best decision about your dental implant process. During this process, your surgeon generates a treatment plan. If you have a complicated case, a second consultation may be scheduled.

At this stage, financing and insurance options may be discussed since most insurance plans do not cover dental implant procedures.

The Initial Dental Examination

Your surgeon performs an initial exam, which helps you better understand the treatment process. During this examination, the surgeon will assess the status of the bone, check for any previous teeth treatments, and the patient’s periodontal condition.

If you have been missing a tooth for a long time, you may need bone grafting services before the teeth implant procedure. Restorative dental procedures, like periodontal therapy, may also be recommended.

These pre-surgical procedures are done to ensure that your teeth implant treatment is done in a healthy and robust dental environment.

The Surgery

Once you are ready for the dental implant surgery, a date is set for the procedure. Local anesthesia is used to make the process painless for the patient. A small incision is then made in the gums as part of preparing the jawbone for the implants. The dental implants are placed strategically along the jaw. After a successful procedure, the gums are stitched back.

The Healing Process

It takes between 8 and 16 weeks to recover from the procedure. During this time, the jawbone tissues fuse with the implant surface. This provides a strong foundation for the restoration process. You may be required to visit the dentist’s office for routine checks during the healing period.

Final Restoration

Once your dentist is certain that your jaws have healed, a quick final process is done. This procedure involves adding an abutment, which is a small connector, to the implant. This connector extends slightly beyond the gum line to serve as an anchor for dental crowns, dentures or a dental bridge. After the restoration process, the patient can use the implants as they would with their natural teeth.

Generally, the entire treatment process can take between six months and a year. The time taken varies from one patient to the next, based on the complexity of each case.

Visit Guerrino Dentistry for more information about our dental implant services!