Learn About the Phases of Your Surgery for Dental Implants in Allen!

Once you read this in-depth look at what your treatment entails, you’ll wake up confident to start your post-care treatment!

Preparing for Your Surgery

The periodontist will provide you with local anesthesia and/or IV sedation, so chances are any discomfort you experience will be minor. Prior to your surgery, you’ll be given a few treatments that ensure the procedure will be as smooth as possible. These include an anti-bacterial mouthwash, such as chlorhexidine, to fully sanitize your mouth. They’ll also prescribe you antibiotics a few days prior to surgery as a preventive measure.

If you are being given IV sedation, you’ll need to fast after midnight the day before your surgery. If you aren’t, make sure to eat a good breakfast. You’ll also need someone to drive you to and from the practice if you choose to use an oral sedative or IV sedation.

What to Expect During Surgery

The entire process of receiving dental implants takes anywhere from six to nine months to complete and occurs in two phases: the placement phase and the restoration phase.

During the initial placement phase, the surgeon will numb all necessary areas of your mouth and then make an incision in your gums where the implant will go. Once the bone underneath the gums is exposed, they’ll create space in the bone and gently screw the implant into your jaw. When snugly in place, they’ll attach an abutment (healing cap) onto the implant to ensure the gum tissue heals properly. Finally, the gums are closed over the implant, giving it time to heal over the next several months.

Once the implant is fully integrated with the bone, you’ll come back to have the gum tissue reopened and a small extension placed on top so an impression can be taken. This impression is what’s used to create your implant-retained restoration. At your final appointment, your permanent crown is placed and your implant is complete.

Post-Care After Placement

Since the healing stage takes several months to complete, you’ll want to practice proper post-care after your initial surgery. Consider the following tips below:

• Keep to a soft-food diet for the first 24 hours after surgery
• Use ibuprofen or other painkillers prescribed by the periodontist to mitigate any soreness
• Brush and floss as normal, making sure to do so gently around the affected area
• Avoid smoking or using any tobacco products at all costs

After you finish surgery and post-care, you’ll be ready to smile wider than ever before and eat all the foods you used to love! To see if you’re eligible for dental implants, schedule an appointment with a periodontist in Allen today!