The Dental Implants Procedure in Jupiter, FL

Initial Consultation and Evaluation

The first step in receiving dental implants is to schedule an initial consultation with our dentist in Jupiter. This assessment includes:

• A thorough dental examination
• X-rays and 3D imaging of your teeth and jawbone
• Review of your medical history
• Discussion of your expectations and treatment goals

From there, we’ll determine your dental implant candidacy and create your custom treatment plan.

Treatment Planning

Once you’re deemed a suitable candidate, we’ll develop a personalized treatment plan. This plan takes into account factors such as:

• The number of teeth being replaced
• The health of your jawbone and gums
• The type of implant and restoration best suited to your needs

Supplemental Procedures

For some patients, additional procedures may be recommended before they can move forward with dental implant procedures. Treatments such as bone grafting and soft tissue grafting are common for those suffering from low jawbone density or who have underlying oral health conditions, such as gum disease.

A bone graft or soft tissue graft can be performed before or during the implant process, depending on the patient’s needs and the complexity of their case. Dr. Cabanzon will evaluate your specific situation and determine if any additional procedures are necessary to ensure the success of your dental implant procedure.

In some cases, dental implants may not be right for you. Our dental implant provider may recommend other restorative dentistry treatments, such as removable dentures or a dental bridge to replace missing teeth.

Implant Surgery

The next step is the placement of the implant. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia or sedation to ensure comfort. The process involves:

1. Making a small incision in the gum to expose the jawbone
2. Drilling a small hole in the bone to create space for the implant
3. Inserting the titanium implant into the bone
4. Closing the gum tissue with stitches

After the surgery, the implant needs time to integrate with the bone, a process called osseointegration, which typically takes three to six months.

Healing Period

During this healing period, the titanium implant fuses with the jawbone, creating a strong and stable base for the artificial tooth. You’ll be given temporary crowns or bridges to wear during this time, allowing you to maintain normal function and appearance while healing.

Remember, each patient heals differently, so the entire dental implant timeline will fluctuate for each person.

Abutment Placement

Once the implant has fully integrated with the bone, the next step is to attach an abutment. The abutment acts as a connector between the implant and the artificial tooth. This minor procedure involves reopening the gum to expose the implant and attaching the abutment.

Crown Placement

After the gums heal around the abutment, the final step is to place the custom-made dental crown. This crown is designed to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and aesthetic result. The crown is either screwed or cemented onto the abutment, completing the restoration.

Will I need to have any teeth removed before getting an implant?

No, not necessarily. In some cases, dental implants can be placed directly into the jawbone without the need to remove any existing teeth. However, if there aren’t enough healthy teeth or if the jawbone is too thin or weak, tooth extraction may be necessary before the implant surgery.

How long does the entire dental implant process take?

On average, the dental implant process takes about four to six months. The implant surgery itself takes just a few hours during one appointment, but the post needs time to heal and integrate with the jawbone before your dentist places the final restoration, typically a dental crown or bridge. Osseointegration can take anywhere from three to six months and is a crucial step as this is when your implant post naturally fuses with your jawbone.

Is the dental implant procedure painful?

Most patients report little to no pain during the dental implant procedure. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area, or your dentist may offer alternative dental sedation options depending on your needs. After the implant procedure, patients usually manage any discomfort or swelling with over-the-counter medications.

Can dental implants replace multiple teeth?

Yes, implants can replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even a full arch of teeth. Implant-supported bridges or dentures are often used for patients missing several teeth.