Dental Implant Surgery FAQs Answered by an Oral Surgeon

What is involved in dental implant surgery?

The first step in the procedure is an oral examination and consultation to determine if the person is eligible for implant treatment. This often includes taking X-rays and taking impressions for teeth models. The surgeon will also review the patient’s health to see if there are any medical conditions that may affect the success of the procedure.

After the initial review, the surgeon will place the implants, which will then be allowed to integrate with the jawbone. After the bone heals around the implant, the surgeon will attach the abutment, which will hold the replacement teeth.

How long does the treatment take?

Implants need to fully fuse with the bone for stability. The process takes between three to nine months, depending on the condition of the jawbone. In some cases, dental implants may be fitted with a dental restoration immediately after surgery. Immediate loading of dental implants significantly reduces the treatment duration.

Is the surgery painful?

Most implant patients often experience far less discomfort than anticipated, as it is almost like a tooth extraction procedure. Although patients have different pain tolerance levels, most patients feel comfortable after using pain relievers like ibuprofen.

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants can last for many years with proper maintenance and good oral health. Clinical research shows that implant-supported restorations have worked successfully for more than 35 years. Implants are created to be permanent, but many factors can contribute to the long-term success of the dental restoration, including regular visits to a cosmetic dentist. The dentist can provide preventative health care to avoid any issues. If any problems do arise, the dentist can provide minimally invasive treatments, like LAPIP, which uses PerioLase to treat gum disease (with symptoms like bleeding, swelling, pus and redness) around an implant. 

Do dental implants fail?

Dental implant restoration that fuses with the bone for stability has a high success rate of up to 95%. The treatment is highly predictable, but there are rare situations where the bone may not bond fully with the implants. If this happens, the patient will need to get new implants. Factors such as smoking, teeth grinding and placing pressure on the new implants can cause complications with the bonding process.

What is the cost of dental implant surgery?

Getting a dental implant is an investment to improve the teeth’s function, aesthetic, health and quality of life. Implants help replace missing teeth while preserving facial structure. The cost of surgery depends on the number of teeth to be replaced, the type of implants and the need for other treatments that contribute to the success of the procedure, such as bone grafting. Each patient is unique, which means the only way to know the actual cost of treatment is to consult an oral surgeon.

Is age a factor in implant treatment?

Dental implants were initially designed for older patients who had lost their teeth. There is no age limitation to getting dental implants if the patient is healthy and a permanent tooth is involved. However, the procedure is typically only recommended when patients are in their mid or late twenties.

In conclusion

Undergoing dental implant surgery from an oral surgeon is an effective way to replace missing teeth and restore dental functions. Be sure to ask questions during your first meeting to know what to expect. 

Request an appointment here: https://www.casasadobesdentistry.com or call Casas Adobes Dentistry at (520) 365-0559 for an appointment in our Tucson office.