Dental Implants: Start-to-Finish
A Dental Implant is a revolutionary, surgical device that permanently replaces your missing teeth. We explained why implants are likely your best option for replacing your missing or broken teeth.
The journey from the start of implant placement to enjoying your new teeth unfolds in stages, each with its own healing timeframe and considerations. To ensure you are educated and informed about what to expect, let us dig in.
Dental Implants Process: Start-to-Finish
Phase #1: Initial Placement
Time Period: 1-2 Weeks
What Happens: This stage involves placing the titanium implant screw into the jawbone. Stitches, if any, will be removed around this time. Discomfort and swelling are common initially, but should gradually subside. Your implants needs time to settle in as the soft tissues heal.
Diet: Stick to a soft diet, stay hydrated, and skip hot and cold foods.
Habits: Meticulous oral hygiene is crucial in the early stages.
Dental Implants: Initial Placement - Stage 1
Stage #2: Osseointegration
Time Period: 3-6 Months for Lower Jaw, 4-6 Months for Upper Jaw
What Happens: The implant fuses with the surrounding bone, creating a firm anchor for the artificial tooth. You likely have a temporary cap or healing abutment. This is a period of integration and healing.
Diet: Avoid hard or chewy foods and follow your Prosthodontist’s instructions for gentle hygiene.
Habits: Regular checkups are essential to monitor progress and ensure proper integration.
Stage #3: Abutment Placement
Time Period: 2-4 Weeks
What Happens: After successful healing, a small connector piece called an abutment is attached to the implant. This prepares the implant for the final restoration. Minor discomfort and swelling might occur, but typically resolve quickly.
Diet: Maintain a primarily soft diet. Be cautious with harder bites.
Habits: Maintain gentle oral hygiene around the abutment.
Dental Implants: Abutment Placement - Stage 3
Stage #4: Crown Placement and Finalization
Time Period: 1-2 Weeks
What Happens: Finally, the permanent crown or restoration is fixed onto the abutment, completing the implant process and allowing you to fully use the tooth.
Diet: Reintroduce foods gradually to your new teeth. And, gradually progress to tougher bites.
Habits: You'll receive instructions on caring for your new tooth and maintaining optimal oral hygiene.
Dental Implants: Crown Placement - Stage 4 (Final)
Healing Timelines: Keep in mind that there are many factors affecting the healing timelines including bone density, your overall health, smoking, and surgical techniques used.
Dietary Considerations: To dig deeper into dietary considerations through the entire cycle, go here.
“Everywhere you go, take a smile with you.”
Final Thoughts
Note that this the general process and guidance for the dental implants process from start to finish. Speak to Dr Jere, Prosthodontist and Implant Specialist at Seattle Oral Care, for specific information about your unique healing process and any adjustments to these phases based on your situation.
Bon Appetit!
