The Process of Getting Dental Implants: From Consultation to Completion

Dental implants are one of the most popular and highly recommended tooth-replacement treatment options. They look, feel, and work just like natural teeth. Plus, they offer patients a versatile array of restorative treatment options, from replacing individual teeth with implant-supported crowns to replacing multiple, most, or all teeth with implant-supported dental bridges, partial dentures, or full dentures (full arch reconstruction).

While dental implants are well worth the investment, the process of getting implants can be somewhat lengthy and complex. On average, the process lasts between three and six months, but more complicated treatment plans could take longer. On the other hand, a procedure where all teeth are removed, implants surgically placed, and a temporary hybrid denture is 3D printed and attached to the implants all in one appointment is becoming more common. This treatment is available at Loftus Dental. This is commonly referred to as All-on-Four, Teeth in a Day, Teeth Now, or All-on-X.  At Loftus Dental, we like to ensure that our patients have a clear understanding of what to expect and anticipate throughout the dental implant process. 

What to Expect: The Implant Procedure Steps, From Consultation to Completion

The dental implant treatment process takes place using local anesthetics that ensure patients experience no pain or discomfort during treatment. We can also provide patients with sedation dentistry options that help ease anxiety and support a relaxed and comfortable treatment experience. 

1. Consultation and Evaluation

The dental implant treatment process always begins with a consultation, thorough examination, CBCT (3D X-ray), and patient evaluation to determine whether dental implants are the most appropriate treatment option and outline a personalized treatment plan. The evaluation includes a dental exam and diagnostic images that enable our dentist to evaluate the patient's bone structure and any preparatory work needed before the dental implants can be placed. 

2. Tooth Extraction and/or Bone Grafting

Depending on the patient's current oral health and existing jawbone structure, preparatory work might need to be performed prior to treatment with dental implants. Some patients who do not have enough jawbone matter to support a dental implant will first undergo a bone grafting procedure. Bone grafting and implant placement are often completed during the same appointment. However, there are times when the grafting and extraction sites need to heal prior to placing the implants.

3. Healing and Bone Generation

If the implants can not be placed at the same time as the tooth extractions and bone grafting, a period of healing will take place. During this time, the jawbone will heal, fill in the gap that the natural tooth used to occupy, and generate new bone matter to shore up the jaw, ensuring it is robust enough to support a dental implant.

4. Dental Implant Placement

After the jawbone has healed and created enough bone matter, a dental implant can be put in place through a simple oral surgery. During this surgery, the dentist makes an incision in the gum tissue. Then, a small hole is drilled into the jawbone, and the implant anchor—a screw-shaped dental piece that acts like the root of a natural tooth—is placed inside the jawbone. The gum tissue is then repositioned and stitched up to help it heal more quickly. Typically, a tissue healing abutment is added to the implant to shape the gums correctly for the future tooth site. 

5. Healing and Osseointegration

Another period of healing is then scheduled for the patient. During this time, the body will naturally generate bone matter closely around the implant anchor, effectively osseointegration the prosthetic with the natural jawbone. 

6. Abutment Placement

Once healed and osseointegrated, the patient returns to our office. During this appointment, we will attach a metal abutment to the top of the implant anchor. This abutment will support a dental restoration in the future. 

Depending on how a patient's soft tissues heal around the implant anchor, this process may or may not require an incision.

7. Healing Period

If an incision was made for the abutment placement, another healing period will take place. 

Permanent Restoration Placement

Once the patient's soft tissues have healed, the permanent restoration (dental crown, dental bridge, or denture) can then be placed on top of the implant abutment. Depending on the type of restoration, this attachment might be designed to be permanent or detachable. 

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

On average, a single dental implant costs between $2,000 and $4,000. The cost of treatment can vary, however, based on the type of tooth being replaced, all aspects of a patient's complete treatment plan, the type of restoration received, and the patient's insurance coverage. Most insurance plans do provide coverage for dental implants.

If you are considering restoring your smile with dental implants, our office staff at Loftus Dental can provide you with an estimate of your treatment costs and help you navigate your insurance coverage to determine your out-of-pocket expenses. 

Restore Your Smile With Dental Implants at Loftus Dental

If you're missing one or more teeth, then your quality of life has likely diminished due to difficulty enjoying your favorite foods, changes to your speech, impacts on your appearance, and negative effects on your oral health. However, you do not have to suffer. With dental implants or alternative smile restoration treatments, our dentist can help you restore the form, function, and appearance of your smile, along with your quality of life. 

To learn more about dental implants or to request a consultation, we welcome you to contact Loftus Dental in Rapid City and Sturgis, SD.