How Are Dental Implants Placed?

If you’ve lost a tooth, or several, then you may already know that dental implants might be your best option for replacing them. However, you might still have questions about what to expect, especially during the procedure itself. The good news is that, with extensive training and experience, Dr. Miller is well-versed in the dental implant process. From working closely with your oral surgeon to place your dental implants, to custom-designing your lifelike crown, bridge, or denture, we’ll be with you every step of the way as you regain the beautiful, healthy smile of your youth.

Step 1: Dental Implant Planning

The first stage is to plan the number, location, and angle of each implant post—the small, biocompatible posts that are inserted into your jawbone. Using advanced digital imaging, your dentist will ensure that each implant will be placed in an optimal position to absorb a maximum amount of your bite’s pressure. For improved results, your dentist can create a surgical stent guide for your oral surgeon to follow when placing your implant posts.

Step 2: Implant Post Placement

During your implant placement surgery, your oral surgeon will first administer local anesthesia to the area, and in many cases, an appropriate level of dental sedation. Then, he will surgically insert your implant posts in their predetermined locations. The length of your surgery will depend on the number of implant posts you receive, which your dentist will discuss with you during the implant planning period.

Step 3: Abutment and Restoration Placement

After your implants posts are inserted, your jawbone can take several months to heal. As it does, the bone will fuse to the surfaces of the titanium implant posts, holding them almost as securely as your jawbone holds your healthy, natural teeth roots. After 3-4 months, your dentist can begin making impressions to fabricate your restoration’s supportive abutments, which will connect your restoration to the implanted posts.

Once you’ve healed, you’ll return to your dentist’s office, where he will secure the abutments to the implant posts and secure your restoration to the abutments, completing your dental implant placement!

To learn more about dental implant placement and what to expect, schedule a consultation with Dr. Miller by calling Snow Park Dental in Albuquerque, NM today!

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