The Dental Implants Procedure in Palm Beach Gardens, FL

Initial Consultation

The first step is an initial consultation with our experienced implant dentist in Palm Beach Gardens. During this visit, we’ll discuss your medical history, assess your overall oral health, and determine if dental implants are the right solution for you. This consultation is crucial for setting realistic expectations and ensuring that you’re a good candidate for the procedure.

Comprehensive Oral Examination

Following the consultation, a comprehensive oral examination is done. This includes X-rays, 3D imaging, and impressions of your teeth and gums. These diagnostic tools help us evaluate the density and structure of your jawbone, ensuring that it can support the implant.

If you have any underlying diseases, such as periodontal disease, those will need to be addressed before dental implant surgery.

Treatment Planning

Based on your oral examination, a personalized treatment plan is created. This plan outlines the entire procedure, including the number of implants needed, the type of restoration (crown, bridge, or denture), and any additional procedures such as bone grafting or tooth extraction.

Tooth Extraction (if necessary)

If you have any damaged or decayed teeth that need to be removed before the implant can be placed, tooth extraction will be the next step. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort.

Bone Graft (if necessary)

In cases where the jawbone is too thin or soft to support an implant, bone grafting may be required. Bone grafting involves adding bone material to the jaw, which will eventually integrate with the existing bone to create a solid foundation for the implant. This step may extend the overall timeline of the procedure, as it can take several months for the graft to heal fully.

Implant Surgery

The implant surgery is typically an outpatient procedure done under local anesthesia, but some patients may choose to have IV sedation for added comfort. Sedation options are discussed at the initial consultation. During the procedure, the dentist will make a small incision in the gums and carefully place the implant post into the jawbone. The post will then be left to heal and integrate with the bone in the coming months.

Depending on your dentist, they may perform the surgery with the help of 3D scanning technology or even laser technology.

Recovery Period

During the recovery period, you’ll begin the process of osseointegration. Osseointegration is a natural process where the bone around the implant post begins to fuse with the jawbone. This process is essential for the implant to be secure and stable. It takes several months for osseointegration to be completed.

The healing time for osseointegration varies for each patient, but you’ll be able to return to your normal routine after a few days. Make sure to stick to a soft foods diet and follow any instructions provided. You may have some discomfort or swelling for a few days to a week.
Remember, each patient heals differently, so the entire dental implant timeline will fluctuate for each person.

Crown Placement

The final step in the dental implant procedure is placing the custom-made crown, bridge, or denture onto the abutment. The restoration is designed to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and aesthetically pleasing result. Once the crown is in place, you’ll be able to enjoy full functionality and a restored smile.

Aftercare and Maintenance

Proper aftercare and maintenance are essential for the long-term success of your dental implants. At PGA Dentistry, we provide detailed instructions on how to care for your implants, including oral hygiene practices, dietary recommendations, and routine dental visits. Regular check-ups and professional cleanings will help ensure the longevity of your implants.

Who is qualified to place dental implants?

Several dental professionals are qualified to place dental implants:

Oral Surgeons: Oral and maxillofacial surgeons have extensive training in oral surgery and are highly skilled in implant placement, including complex cases that require bone grafting or other advanced procedures.
Periodontists: These dentists focus on gum and bone health. Their expertise in bone and tissue management makes them well-suited for implant placement, especially in cases with bone loss or gum disease.
General Dentists: Many general dentists offer implant placement services. While they may not have the same level of specialized training as an oral surgeon or periodontist, they often have sufficient expertise for routine implant cases.

How long does the entire dental implant treatment take?

On average, the dental implant process takes about four to six months. The implant surgery itself takes just a few hours during one appointment, but the post needs time to heal and integrate with the jawbone before your dentist places the artificial teeth, typically a dental crown or bridge. Osseointegration can take anywhere from three to six months and is a crucial step as this is when your implant post naturally fuses with your jawbone.

Is the dental implant procedure painful?

Most patients report little to no pain during the dental implant procedure. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area, or your dentist may offer alternative dental sedation options depending on your needs. After the implant procedure, patients usually manage any discomfort or swelling with over-the-counter medications.

What is the purpose of dental implants?

The purpose of dental implants is to replace a missing tooth or teeth. When a tooth is lost because of injury, decay, or other reasons, it can hurt a person’s oral health and quality of life. Dental implants provide a permanent, durable replacement artificial tooth, improving your natural teeth’ function and appearance.