When it comes to dental implants, some patients may assume that this process is quick: just place the whole implant and you’re done. However, that’s not the case. But rest assured that even though the dental implant process is a little longer than other tooth replacement treatments, it’s balanced by having a longer lifespan than the other and can be broken down into a few simple steps.
Step 1: Consult with Dr. David Taler
You should never dive into a surgical procedure without consulting with a trusted professional who’s familiar with that procedure first (see “Choosing the Right Dental Implant Provider“). Dr. David Taler is experienced in the application and maintenance of hundreds of dental implants in Fishers, IN. He can help you discover your candidacy for implants, and what extra steps, if any, you need to take prior to your treatment. This will ensure that you and your jawbone are ready for the surgery and that it will be a successful one as well.
Optional Step: Do You Need a Supplemental Procedure?
Not everyone will need a supplemental procedure, but they can definitely improve your chances of qualifying for dental implants. Two of these procedures are known as bone regeneration and soft tissue augmentation: two treatments that are meant to improve the conditions of either the jawbone or the gum tissue around the implant. With both of these tissues strong and intact, your dental implant will have a better support system in order to osseointegrate.
The only way to determine if you need one of these treatments is to consult with Dr. Taler, during which he’ll examine your oral health and determine what you need.
Step 2: The Fixture Placement
The titanium fixture is placed first. This piece is shaped like a screw and is placed in the jawbone, below the gum line. The gums are typically sutured back over the fixture, so the area can heal, hidden away. Also, this is when osseointegration first takes place. The average waiting period can last from a few weeks to a few months before the next piece can be fixed to the implants.
Step 3: Abutment
The abutment is the next piece to be placed, and is shaped a lot like a thimble. It’s placed over the fixture like a cap, and will serve as the anchor for the crown restoration. Even if your crown is not ready yet, we can put a temporary restoration over the abutment so that no one can tell that it’s an implant. A small period of healing may be needed to allow the gums to heal around it.
Step 4: Crown Restoration
This final piece is what brings the implant altogether: your unique crown. Dr. David Taler will ensure that not only does this crown look accurate, but it will also feel comfortable too. During this last step, you’ll work with Dr. Taler to make sure that it has the shading and feel you’re looking for.
Step 5: Postoperative Care
While your dental implant may be complete, this doesn’t mean it’s ready to tackle solid foods just yet. It’s still recovering, and may feel sensitive. It’s also quite common to experience some bleeding or swelling after the surgery, but should go away within a few days. If not, please contact us right away to update us on your condition, and please follow any postoperative instructions that Dr. Taler gives you.
What If My Process is Interrupted?
While we can all do our best to plan for success, sometimes life throws us for a loop. If you made vacation plans during your dental implant process, be sure to let us know when you’ll be gone so that we can schedule appointments accordingly. Since there is a long period between the placement of the fixture and the abutment, this would be an ideal time.
If you need to move unexpectedly, or have an out-of-town emergency, just be sure to let us know. Communication with us is key, to guarantee the success of your dental implant.
Contact Us To Start Your Implant Journey
All it takes is the first step to begin your journey to a complete smile. Contact us in Fishers, IN to schedule a consultation with Dr. David Taler and learn more about how you can qualify for dental implant treatment.
