Dental Implant Timeline: What to Expect

South Philadelphia dental implants are a great solution when teeth are missing or removed. A tooth implant is an artificial tooth anchored to the jawbone. 

But, while most people might know how an implant works, a lot of them don't know what to expect from the process of getting one. 

Here's what you need to know. 
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Before Getting the Implant

The process of a dental implant starts with an initial consultation where your Philadelphia dentist will perform an x-ray or 3D scan, depending on your case. 

The dentist will also review your medical history so that they can perform the surgery according to your needs and create the best suitable treatment plan.

The doctor will determine if a bone graft is required for the dental implant to be accommodated. 
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Getting the Implant

Dental implants require several steps after your initial consultation and after your needs and the costs have been discussed. On the day of the surgery, the doctor will make a small incision in the area where the tooth used to be. The dentist will place the implant and suture the area, leaving it to heal (a recovery process which usually takes 3 to 7 days). 
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The Healing Process

After the initial healing process, there is a timeline of 3 to 6 months where the integration of the implant occurs (osseointegration). This is when the gum and jaw tissue bond with it permanently, creating a solid platform to continue with the process.

After the implant has healed completely, and osseointegration has reached the desired result, there might be a need to place the abutment (the piece where the crown will be attached.) The surgeon will open the implant, attach the abutment to it, then close the gum tissue. 

After the abutment is placed, another 2 weeks are needed for the healing, before placing the artificial tooth. You and your doctor will choose an artificial tooth that can either be removable or fixed. 

You may need medications or antibiotics after the surgery to prevent swelling and pain or if you feel some discomfort. After each stage of the implant process, it's best to eat soft foods while the site is healing. 
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Contact Us

At Mestichelli Barnes Dental Associates we use Digital treatment planning - a Combination of 3D Cone beam imaging and CEREC digital impression systems to plan implant placement. 

As general dentists, we have expertise in not only implants but other options for replacing teeth, including bridges and removable dentures. In many cases, implants are the best option, but we will be able to give you multiple options and find the one that makes the most sense in your particular case.

We know that many patients can be overwhelmed by the process, and we guarantee a laid-back, comprehensive experience for our patients. Our doctors are known to be very gentle.

Contact Dr. Bill Mesticelli & Dr. Michael Barnes for a consultation now, where we create a safe experience for the patient while investing in high-quality technology.