Timeline for Dental Implants

At Associates for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we specialize in providing state-of-the-art dental implant procedures that restore smiles and improve oral health. Our meticulous approach ensures a seamless process from extraction to final photos. Here’s a brief overview of the steps involved:

  1. Consultation and Assessment:
  • Thorough examination of oral health and medical history.
  • Discussion of treatment options, including dental implants.
  • Digital imaging.
  1. Extraction
  • Extraction of the damaged or decayed tooth, if necessary.
  • Bone grafting, socket preservation or sinus lift procedures to ensure adequate bone density, if required.
  • You will usually have a post-operative checkup about 2 weeks after this surgery.
  1. Second Implant Consultation
  • Allow at least 3 months after the extraction or loss of a tooth, then perform a second consultation with CT scan to confirm adequate bone regeneration.
  • Confirm final treatment plan.
  1. Presurgical or “Records” Appointment:
  • This may be done at the same visit as the second implant consultation.
  • Digital impressions are taken to generate a custom surgical guide. This guide enhances precision during implant placement, leading to optimal outcomes.
  • Discuss pre- and post-operative care, take pre-op photos, and go over consent forms.
  • This visit takes place about 2 weeks prior to implant placement surgery to allow time to fabricate the surgical guide.
  1. Implant Placement (Stage I) surgery:
  • Precision placement of the dental implant into the jawbone using advanced techniques such as guided surgery for accuracy. This is generally done at least 3 months after the extraction or loss of tooth in that area to allow for adequate bone regeneration.
  • Titanium implant acts as a sturdy foundation for the replacement tooth.
  • An optional temporary restoration called a Screw Retained Provisional, or SRP, which is arranged with your dentist and fabricated by an outside lab, may be placed during this visit for aesthetic purposes.
  • Allowance for the implant to fuse with the jawbone over 2-4 months.
  1. Healing Abutment Placement (Stage II) surgery:
  • Once osseointegration is complete, a healing abutment is attached to the implant, if one was not already been placed at time of implant placement.
  • This temporary abutment serves to open the gum tissue and reveal the implant “post” for your restorative dentist to do their part.
  • Allow about 2-4 weeks for healing prior to your restorative dentist taking final impressions for crown.
  1. Final Restoration:
  • Your restorative dentist’s office will place a permanent abutment, as well as perform custom creation and placement of the dental crown or prosthetic tooth.
  • Color, size, and shape matched to blend seamlessly with natural teeth.
  • Ensures optimal functionality and aesthetics.
  1. Final Photos:
  • At least 4 weeks after your dentist places your final restoration, you’ll have final photos taken in our office. We capture high-quality images of the restored smile for documentation, patient satisfaction, and warranty.
  • Showcase the transformative results achieved through our meticulous dental implant procedure.
  1. Follow-Up Care:
  • Regular hygiene appointments with your general dentist to maintain implant and monitor healing and success of the implant
  • Oral hygiene education and maintenance tips to prolong the life of the implant.
  • Return to our office yearly for 2 years after implant placement to ensure stability and the success of your implant and meet warranty requirements.

At Associates for Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, we prioritize patient comfort, safety, and satisfaction throughout every stage of the dental implant process. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to delivering outstanding results and restoring confidence in every smile. 

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a brighter, healthier smile with dental implants from AOMS!