What Is the Procedure for Getting Dental Implants?

Missing a tooth isn’t just about how it looks; it can affect the way you eat, speak, and feel about yourself. Fortunately, dental implants in Roseville, CA, offer a long-lasting, reliable solution. Whether you’ve lost one tooth or several, implants restore both function and appearance. But what exactly happens during the procedure? In this guide, we walk you through every step, from consultation to final results.

1. Initial Consultation and Dental Evaluation

The first and most crucial step is your initial visit. This isn’t just a quick check-up—it’s a comprehensive evaluation to determine if you’re a good candidate for dental implants.

Here’s what you can expect during your consultation:

• Full dental exam: Your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, and jaw.
• X-rays or CT scans: These help evaluate bone density and structure.
• Health review: You’ll be asked about your medical history, medications, and lifestyle habits like smoking or grinding teeth.
• Personalized plan: Your dentist will explain treatment options, costs, timelines, and answer any questions you may have.

It’s perfectly normal to feel nervous during this visit. Ask your dentist about anything that worries you. You’re not just getting a procedure—you’re starting a relationship with someone you trust with your smile.

2. Preparing the Jawbone: Bone Grafting and Healing (If Needed)

Not everyone is ready for implants right away. If your jawbone isn’t thick or strong enough to support an implant, bone grafting may be necessary.

When is bone grafting needed?

• After years of missing teeth, the jaw can shrink due to a lack of stimulation.
• Gum disease or injury may also cause bone loss.
• In such cases, grafting helps create a stable foundation.

How it works:

• A bone graft uses your own bone (usually from your hip or jaw), a donor bone, or synthetic material.
• The material is added to areas with bone loss.
• Over time, your natural bone grows and strengthens around the graft.

Healing from a bone graft may take several weeks to a few months. During this time, it’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions. Eat soft foods, avoid tobacco, and attend follow-ups as scheduled.

3. Placement of the Dental Implant

This is the part most people think of when they hear “dental implants.” Once your jaw is ready, it’s time for the implant post to be placed.

Here’s what happens:

• You’ll be given local anesthesia or sedation for comfort.
• The dentist makes a small incision in the gum to access the jawbone.
• A titanium implant post is judiciously inserted into the bone.
• The gum is stitched up, and healing begins.

The implant acts like the root of your new tooth. It won’t be visible right away, the crown comes later. After surgery, it’s normal to have some swelling or soreness. Ice packs, soft foods, and rest are your best friends during this phase.

Remember to follow your dentist’s aftercare advice closely. Taking care of yourself after surgery will help the implant heal properly and reduce any chance of infection.

4. Osseointegration: The Healing Process

This stage might not be visible, but it’s where the real transformation happens.

Osseointegration is the process where your jawbone fuses with the implant. This bonding is what gives implants their strength and stability.

What you should know:

• It usually takes 3 to 6 months for full healing.
• The implant becomes a part of your body, like a natural root.
• This phase is critical—no rushing!

During this time:

• Avoid biting down on hard foods near the implant area.
• Keep your mouth clean to prevent infection.
• Attend follow-up appointments to ensure everything’s healing as it should.

If you feel unusual pain, swelling, or signs of infection, don’t wait—call your dentist near you immediately. Early action helps avoid complications.

5. Attaching the Abutment and Dental Crown

Once your implant is securely fused with the bone, it’s time to complete the process.

Step-by-step:

1. Abutment placement: The dentist reopens the gum and attaches a connector (abutment) to the implant post.
2. Healing cap: Sometimes, a small healing cap is placed to help shape the gum for your crown.
3. Impressions: The dentist takes digital or physical impressions to create your custom crown.
4. Crown fitting: Once ready, the crown is attached and adjusted to ensure a perfect bite.

Crowns can be prepared from porcelain, ceramic, or other materials designed to match your natural teeth. The result? A tooth that looks, feels, and works just like the real thing.

After the final fitting, most people say they forget which tooth is the implant; it blends in so well. Keep brushing, flossing, and visiting dentists in Roseville, CA, for regular care to make it last a lifetime.

Final Thoughts

Dental implants restore both function and confidence, offering a durable, natural-looking solution for missing teeth. The process may take time, but each step ensures lasting results. If you’re ready to improve your smile and oral health, trust the expert team at Eureka Ridge Dentistry. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and begin your journey to a renewed smile.