While minimally invasive, getting dental implants is still a surgical procedure that requires a lot of consideration. If you’re due for one, it’s only suitable to at least have a basic idea of how the whole process works. An expert in dentistry in Downtown Charleston, SC like Smiling Oak Dentistry can walk you through the steps so you know what to expect.

You can go to your family dentistry clinic for this type of dental service. Typically, a dental implant procedure will look something like this:

Consultation Appointment

Not everyone is eligible to undergo this procedure. If you’ve got missing teeth, are in good health overall, and have a bone structure that’s suitable for the surgery. A consultation will help confirm you are a good candidate for dental implants.

Your dentist will also conduct a biocompatibility test to make sure that you do not have any allergic reactions to any of the materials that will be used for the implant surgery.

It’s also worth noting that dental implants are priced differently than other prosthodontic options such as veneers multiple types, so it’s best to discuss your budget during the consultation.

Implants don’t respond well to teeth whitening procedures, so make sure to go over your preferred artificial tooth color with your dentist.

Dental Extraction

A dental extraction is not necessary for options like one visit crowns (same day crowns). But if you’re getting dental implants, all of the damaged teeth have to be removed to make way for the implants.

Dental Implant and Abutment Placement

Under anesthesia, the dentist will install a titanium device that will heal and fuse to the jawbone within 12 weeks.

Molds are taken of your teeth to design new ones that look natural.

An abutment will jut over the gum line to place the new teeth, and sometimes, temporary crowns are given.

Healing will take about a few weeks, and then your cosmetic dentistry practitioner will then make you choose between removable and fixed artificial teeth.

Your dentist will then share aftercare tips so that the implants integrate properly.