Tooth Implant Placement: Before, During, After

Close-up of a dental implant procedure inside a mouth, with visible teeth, gums, and dental tools.

At OKC Smiles, we are often asked what a patient should expect during a tooth implant surgery. So let’s consider what the surgery entails. We will divide it into three parts: before, during, and after.

This is how dental implant placement works:

Before the Procedure

We start with X-rays, an exam, and a consultation. We’ll take numerous X-rays of your teeth and jaw. Images are taken from many angles. It’s important to validate that you have enough healthy bone structure.

If you don’t have adequate bone at the implant site, we may recommend bone grafting surgery. (This is discussed on our website.)

During the exam, we will check that your gums are healthy. Along with healthy bones, healthy gums are required.

During the consultation, we’ll talk about your oral and physical health in general. We will discuss your medical history. Dr. Phan will confirm that you are a good candidate for the procedure.

Pre-Surgery Prep

Dr. Phan may prescribe an antibacterial rinse for you to use for a few days before the surgery. You may also be prescribed antibiotics to help prevent an infection.

During Implant Surgery

First, we’ll use local anesthesia to numb the implant site.

Next, Dr. Phan will make an incision in the gums. This opens the gums so the bone is accessible.

Dr. Phan will then drill a small hole. The hole is the precise diameter and depth of the post. Then the implant post is screwed into the hole in the bone.

We’ll take an X-ray to validate that the implant is in the correct place. Dr. Phan will sew the gums back over the implant.

NOTE: The image shows the implant with the connector piece attached. This is how it will look when it is ready for the final dental crown. When the post is initially implanted, as mentioned, the gums are sewn back over the site. During the months the post is fusing to the bone, the implant post will not be visible.

The dental implant procedure will take about an hour.

If the implant site (and missing tooth) is visible when you smile, we will create a removable partial denture. You can wear this ‘flipper’ while you are waiting for the final crown.

After Implant Surgery

Patients usually feel minimal pain when the local anesthesia wears off. There may be some swelling at the implant location. Slight bruising may transpire as well.

Acetaminophen or ibuprofen is usually enough for post-surgery soreness. Most dental implant patients can go back to work after the surgery.

That’s it!

There is minimal pain. You won’t have to take an entire day off. Most likely, you’ll be back to your normal activities without delay.

Contact OKC Smiles:

405-634-7303

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

13900 S Western Ave, Suite 300
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
73170

 

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