The decision to get a dental implant often comes with a mix of eagerness and nervousness. You’re ready to restore your smile, but questions about the actual procedure might be keeping you up at night. Will it hurt? How long does it take? What really happens when that titanium post goes into your jaw?
At Dental Associates of Jersey City, we believe knowledge eliminates anxiety. Understanding each phase of your dental implant surgery can transform your apprehension into confidence, helping you mentally and physically prepare for one of dentistry’s most successful tooth-replacement options.
The Initial Consultation and Planning Phase
Your dental implant procedure begins with an evaluation. During this first visit, we examine your oral health, take digital X-rays or 3D scans, and assess your jawbone density. These diagnostics help us determine if you need any preparatory treatments before implant placement.
We’ll discuss your medical history and any medications you take, as certain conditions may affect healing. If you have insufficient bone density, we may suggest bone grafting to strengthen the implant site. This additional procedure creates a solid foundation for your implant to fuse with your jaw.
During the consultation, we’ll also create a customized treatment plan based on your specific needs. You’ll learn about the timeline, costs, and what to expect at each stage. We answer all your questions and ensure you feel confident moving forward.
What Happens on Surgery Day
The day of your implant placement typically begins with local anesthesia to numb the treatment site. If you feel anxious about the procedure, we can discuss sedation options to help you stay relaxed throughout.
Once you’re comfortable, we make a small incision in your gum tissue to expose the jawbone. We then create a precise opening in the bone using specialized drills, gradually increasing the size to match your implant. The titanium implant post is strategically placed into this opening, and the gum tissue is sutured closed over or around it.
The entire surgical appointment usually takes one to two hours per implant, though this varies based on how many teeth you’re replacing. Most patients report limited discomfort during the procedure thanks to effective anesthesia. In fact, over 5 million implants are placed annually in the United States, reflecting the widespread confidence both patients and dentists have in this proven treatment.
The Healing and Osseointegration Period
After your surgery, the most critical phase begins: osseointegration. This is when your jawbone develops around the implant post, creating a strong, permanent bond. The process typically takes three to six months, though some cases may heal faster.
During this healing period, you’ll need to follow specific care instructions. Stick to soft foods for the first few days, avoid disturbing the surgical site, and take any prescribed medications as directed. Some inflammation and mild discomfort are normal, but these symptoms usually subside within a few days.
We schedule follow-up appointments to track your healing progress. These visits help us ensure the implant is integrating correctly and address any concerns you may have. Most people can return to work the next day, though you should avoid strenuous activities for about a week.
Attaching the Abutment and Crown
Once osseointegration is complete, you return for a minor procedure to attach the abutment. This small connector piece sits above your implant post and holds your final restoration.
We reopen the gum tissue above your implant and secure the abutment to the post. The gums are then given the time to heal around the abutment for about two weeks. During this phase, we take impressions of your mouth to create your custom crown or other restoration.
Your final restoration is designed to match your natural teeth in color, shape, and function. Once ready, we attach it to the abutment, completing your dental implant. The result is a tooth replacement that looks, feels, and works just like your original tooth.
Contact Dental Associates of Jersey City for Your Dental Implant Procedure
Understanding each component of the dental implant procedure helps you approach treatment with confidence. Our experienced team at Dental Associates of Jersey City has helped countless patients restore their smiles with dental implants. Dr. Andriy Yuzvyak, our prosthodontist, brings advanced training in oral surgery and implant dentistry to every case, ensuring you receive care backed by knowledge and precision.
We offer same-day appointments and accept most insurance benefit plans, making quality dental care accessible to Jersey City residents. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a complete, healthy smile.
