A dental implant is a small, but strong, clinically supported device made of titanium, which is inserted into the jaw bone in place of a missing tooth root. An implant acts as a support for an artificial tooth crown, bridge or denture, and is surgically placed in the jaw bone. At our clinic, we strive to provide the most advanced dental implants available on the market to exceed our patient’s needs. For these reasons and more we use Straumann Implant Products.

 

Step 1: Diagnosis & Decision Making

After gathering all the information via oral X-rays and clinical examination, the oral surgeon will discuss treatment options and the procedures involved. The advantages and disadvantages of various adjunct solutions, such as bone grafting and L-PRF therapy, will be reviewed allowing you to make an informed decision. 

 

Step 2: Implant Placement

The standard timeline for implant placement is 4-5 months following a dental extraction with bone grafting, however, in some cases, it may take a little while longer. We treat each case on an individual basis and we will discuss the best timeline for your implant success. After evaluating your bone level, both clinically and via oral X-rays, you may be scheduled to have the dental implant surgically placed into your jaw bone.

 

Step 3: The Healing Phase

During this phase, the implant and bone have time to heal together, and the bone will integrate itself with the implant surface. This phase of healing takes approximately 4-5 months following the placement of your new dental implant.

 

Step 4: The Final Restoration

At your final check-up with the oral surgeon, the implant will be evaluated via oral X-rays and clinical examination. If the implant is determined to be fully healed and integrated with the bone, we will send your general dentist a letter stating the brand of implant, number of implants, their measurements, and that you are ready for your final restoration. It is your general dentist who will fabricate a crown, bridge or denture for your new dental implant.

 

Dental Implant Care Instructions During the Healing Phase

Straumann dental implants are designed to last a lifetime and proper care is essential to help ensure the longevity of your implant. By following some basic guidelines, the function, stability, and appearance of its crown of your new implant can be maintained for decades.  

Measures that need to be taken during the healing phase and after surgery include the following:

 

  • Cool the external treatment area with ice or cool packs as soon as possible to help prevent pain and swelling.
  • Start taking any pain medication as prescribed.
  • You may use a warm salt water rinse beginning the day after surgery to help promote healing of the oral soft tissues.
  • Do not disturb the wound, especially with your fingers, this can cause the implant to be rejected or not be successful.
  • Avoid rinsing and spitting in the first few hours after the procedure, as this may cause bleeding.
  • Do not use a toothbrush around the area of the mouth where the implant was placed, until the stitches dissolve. We recommend using an oral rinse in conjunction with gentle brushing of your teeth.
  • Do not eat until the local anesthetic has worn off. Eat a soft food diet, drink plenty of fluids, such as Gatorade, avoid hot drinks, spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods, and chewing anything hard on the side where the implant was placed for the first 3-4 days following your surgery. This will help the implant heal safely in preparation for the next step of your treatment. Return to a normal diet as soon as possible unless otherwise instructed.
  • Avoid alcohol, nicotine, coffee, black tea, and sports or other physical exertion for the first few days after the procedure.

We emphasize that both you and your dental team contribute to the long-term success of your new dental implant. Regular check-ups and preventive visits to the dentist are necessary. Your dental team will prepare an individual oral care plan for you, and advise on cleaning techniques specific for your treatment situation. 

Careful care and routine check-ups, as recommended by the dental team, will help your new dental implant remain functional and firmly in place for years to come.