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The dental implant placement process may seem like a complicated and very detailed procedure. However, the process is actually quite simple when it is broken down into the five individual stages. Here are some additional details about the process used at Emanuel Kontos, DMD to get you amazing results with dental implants.
Stage 1: The Consultation
The five-stage process starts with a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Kontos. During this appointment, we will use our extensive experience to analyze and measure the precise details of your smile. X-rays or CAT scans may also be taken and you will be given the chance to ask questions.
This allows us to create a treatment plan that specifies exactly where your new dental implants will be placed for the optimal appearance, function, and health of your smile.
Stage 2: Attaching The Fixture 
The second stage of the placement process involves making a small incision along the gum line where your new tooth will be placed. Next, the fixture or artificial tooth root is gently eased into your jawbone in the small hole that was just drilled. After the fixture has been properly placed, your doctor will carefully suture your gum tissues and you will be sent home for a period of healing.
Stage 3: Crafting The Crown
During this period, it is important that you follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Proper healing is absolutely critical to requisite biological regeneration of bone tissue. This stage, called Osseointegration, lasts three to six months and ensures that new tissue will grow into and around the implant to keep it firmly in place.
While you heal, we will use this time to craft your artificial tooth using the skill and experience necessary to precisely match the shape, color, and texture of your natural teeth.
Stage 4: Connecting The Artificial Tooth
Once your implant site is completely healed, you will return to our office to have an abutment attached to your implant fixture. An abutment is the middle piece of the dental implant connecting the artificial root or fixture to the crown (your new artificial tooth). After this part of the procedure, you will be sent home to heal once more.
Stage 5: Finishing Your New Smile
Once your implant area has healed sufficiently, you will return one last time so that we can attach your crown to the abutment piece. Once this is done, your stunning new smile will be complete!
What Happens After Implant Placement?
After dental implant placement, you will be sent home with a list of after-care instructions from the doctor. These instructions usually involve minimizing pressure on your implant site as it heals, restricting your activities, and resting for the first day after your procedure. Additionally, a visual inspection of the site for any abnormalities should be done regularly and any unusual signs should be reported to us immediately.
Come To Emanuel Kontos, DMD Today!
Now that you have learned about the placement process for dental implants, why not take a look at supplemental procedures? We are here to answer any questions you may have about dental implants and how they can repair, restore, and improve your smile. We proudly serve patients in Tarpon Springs, FL. Just call (727) 361-0326 to reach us.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the dental implant procedure take?
Is getting dental implants painful?
How long does the dental implant procedure take?
The dental implant process typically requires anywhere from six to eight months to complete. Most of this time is to allow your gums and jaw to fully heal after the initial surgery. However, the treatment time for dental implants can vary depending on several factors, including the number of implants being placed and whether a supplemental procedure is required.
At your initial consultation, Dr. Kontos will provide you with a customized treatment plan that includes an outline of all necessary procedures, as well as a time estimate.
Is getting dental implants painful?
Before placing your dental implants, Dr. Alfano will apply a local anesthetic to numb the area around the surgical site so you won’t feel a thing. We’re also happy to offer nitrous oxide or oral sedation for any patients who have sensitive teeth or suffer from dental anxiety.
You may experience some soreness and discomfort after your surgery, but this should fade quickly as your mouth heals. If necessary, you can use over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen to provide relief.
