🦷 Dental Implant Procedure – Step by Step Guide
Missing a tooth and thinking about getting a dental implant? One of the most common questions we hear at Sweet Water Dentistry is: “What’s the process like?”
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire dental implant procedure step by step—so you know exactly what to expect before, during, and after treatment.
🪥 What Is a Dental Implant?
Before we dive into the steps, here’s a quick refresher:
A dental implant is a small post (typically titanium or zirconia) that replaces the root of a missing tooth. Once healed, a custom-made crown is attached to the top, completing your restoration. It looks and functions like a natural tooth—and can last decades with proper care.
🔍 Step 1: Dental Implant Consultation
Every successful implant begins with a detailed consultation. At your first visit, we will:
- Examine your teeth and gums
- Take a 3D CBCT scan of your jawbone
- Review your medical history
- Discuss your goals and treatment options
- Determine if you need a bone graft or sinus lift
👉 Not everyone is a candidate right away—but many patients can still get implants with the right prep.
🦴 Step 2: Bone Grafting (If Needed)
If you’ve had missing teeth for a while, you may have experienced bone loss in the jaw. Bone grafting helps rebuild that structure so it can support the implant. This step may add healing time but greatly improves long-term success.
🛠️ Step 3: Implant Placement Surgery
The big day! Implant placement is a minor surgical procedure done right here in our office. Here’s what to expect:
- Local anesthesia or sedation is used (you won’t feel a thing)
- A small incision is made in the gum
- The implant post is inserted into the jawbone
- The site is sutured and healing begins
🕒 Surgery usually takes 60–90 minutes depending on how many implants you’re receiving.
⏳ Step 4: Healing and Osseointegration
After placement, the implant needs time to bond with your jawbone. This natural process is called osseointegration, and it usually takes 3 to 6 months. During this time, your jaw forms a solid foundation around the implant.
In many cases, you’ll receive a temporary crown or flipper to wear while you heal—so you never have to go without a tooth.
🧩 Step 5: Abutment Placement
Once healing is complete, we place a small connector piece called an abutment on top of the implant. This will hold your final crown in place. The gums are then allowed to heal for a few more weeks.
👑 Step 6: Crown Placement
The final step is attaching your custom-made dental crown. At this visit:
- We take digital impressions for precise fit
- Your crown is crafted to match your natural teeth in color and shape
- We secure it to the abutment—completing your brand-new smile!
You’ll walk out with a tooth that looks and feels just like the real thing.
🔁 Optional: Same-Day Dental Implants
Some patients may qualify for “immediate-load” or same-day implants, where a temporary crown is placed right after implant surgery. This is ideal in certain front-tooth cases or when bone is strong enough for immediate support.
🧼 How to Care for Your Implant After Placement
- Brush and floss daily—just like natural teeth
- Avoid smoking during healing
- Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
- Visit your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups
💬 Ready to Restore Your Smile?
At Sweet Water Dentistry, we make dental implant treatment simple, comfortable, and personalized to YOU. Whether you’re missing one tooth or need a full-mouth restoration, we’re here to walk you through every step.
📞 Call us at 251-210-2773 or to start your journey toward a healthier, more confident smile.
Schedule A Consult with Us!
At Sweet Water Dentistry, we specialize in cosmetic dental treatments to help you achieve a beautiful, confident smile. Schedule an appointment today and let us restore your smile with expert care!
Whether you have an upcoming event or simply want to boost your confidence, our team is here to help.
To schedule a consultation and learn more about your dental implant options, contact Sweet Water Dentistry today!
Visit us for expert care:
Sweet Water Dentistry
📍 5915 Sweetwater Cir, Fairhope, AL 36532
🌐 sweetwatersmile.com
📞 Call or Text: (251) 210-2773
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Sweet Water Dentistry – Gentle, experienced care for Fairhope and the Gulf Coast community.