The traditional method for placing dental implants involves two surgical procedures. Each procedure requires three to six months between them for the patient to heal. During the first procedure, an initial incision is made to gain access to the tooth socket. The implant is then placed into this socket. The next procedure is called immediate implant placement. In both cases, the patient is given a healing cap to wear for a few days following the procedure.
Then the surgeon will cut a small opening in the jaw bone. The titanium posts will act as the root of the replacement tooth. Once the posts are in place, the replacement tooth will be screwed into place. Depending on the type of implant, the procedure may require more than one visit. Patients may need to have a bone graft before they can have the implant procedure. These surgeries are a significant investment in their oral health and should only be undertaken by a dentist with extensive experience and training in dental implant surgery.
