Dental implants have revolutionized modern dentistry, offering a permanent solution to missing teeth. They can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even an entire arch. Understanding the process involved can alleviate anxiety and help you make informed decisions. Follow along as we walk you through what you can expect before, during, and after the dental implant procedure, so you can approach the experience with confidence.

The journey to getting dental implants starts well before you sit in the dental chair. Here’s what you can expect during the pre-surgical phase.

Before the Dental Implant Procedure:

1. Initial consultation

The first step in your implant journey is a comprehensive consultation with your dentist. During this visit, the dentist will evaluate your oral health, discuss your goals, and assess your suitability for implants. Expect a thorough examination that may include digital X-rays to assess the bone structure in your jaw, as successful implants require adequate bone density.

If your jawbone is too thin or soft, the dentist might recommend a bone grafting procedure to build up the bone before implants can be placed. They will also discuss your medical history to ensure you’re healthy enough for surgery.

2. Treatment plan

Once you’re deemed a good candidate, the dentist will craft a personalized treatment plan. This will detail the type of implant, the number of implants needed, and the timeline for the entire process. The plan will also address any additional procedures, such as tooth extractions, bone grafting, or sinus lifts.

3. Preparing for surgery

Before the procedure, the dentist will provide specific instructions to ensure the best results. This may include dietary recommendations (such as avoiding food or drink before surgery), arranging transportation (as you’ll likely receive sedation), and managing any current medications.

During the Dental Implant Procedure

The implant procedure is done under local anaesthesia, though your dentist may offer sedation options if you’re feeling anxious. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what happens during the procedure:

1. Anaesthesia and sedation

To minimize discomfort, the area where the implant will be placed is numbed with a local anaesthetic. The practitioner may offer sedation options, such as oral sedatives or IV sedation, to help you feel relaxed and at ease throughout the procedure.

2. Placement of the implant

Once you’re comfortable, the dentist will begin by making a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the bone. They will then drill a small hole into the bone where the implant will be placed. This titanium post, which mimics the root of a natural tooth, is carefully screwed into place.

For multiple implants or more complex cases, the procedure may take longer, sometimes requiring multiple stages. In some cases, if the implant is part of a full arch replacement, a “same-day” procedure may be possible, where temporary teeth are attached to the implants immediately after placement.

3. Closing the incision

Once the implant is secured, the gum tissue is stitched up, and the area is cleaned. In some cases, a temporary crown or prosthetic may be placed on top of the implant, but in many cases, the implant will remain covered by the gum tissue for the time being, to allow it to heal properly.

4. Recovery period

The implant is left to integrate with the bone in a process known as Osseo-integration, which can take several months. During this time, the bone fuses with the titanium post, making it strong and stable enough to support a permanent crown

After the Dental Implant Procedure: The Recovery and Aftercare

While dental implants are a durable and long-lasting solution, they do require a period of healing and aftercare. Here’s what you can expect once the procedure is completed:

1. Immediate aftercare

After the procedure, you may experience some swelling, bruising, or mild discomfort at the implant site. The dentist will provide pain management instructions and may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection. Applying an ice pack to the area can help reduce swelling in the first 24 hours.

It’s important to follow your dentist’s guidelines for post-operative care to ensure proper healing. This may include avoiding certain foods (like crunchy or chewy items) and keeping the implant site clean without disturbing the stitches. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least a week.

2. Follow-up appointments

You’ll be scheduled for follow-up visits to monitor your healing progress. During these visits, your dentist will check the implant site, remove any stitches if necessary, and make sure the implant is properly integrating with the bone.

3. Final restoration

Once the implant has successfully integrated with your bone (usually after three to six months), your dentist will place the permanent crown, bridge, or denture. This restoration is custom-made to match the size, shape, and colour of your natural teeth, ensuring that your new smile is seamless and natural-looking.

If you had a temporary restoration during the healing period, it will be replaced with a permanent one, and the implant will be fully functional. You should expect to feel little to no discomfort at this stage.

4. Long-term care

Taking care of your dental implants is much like caring for your natural teeth. Good oral hygiene habits, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, will help ensure your implants remain healthy for many years. While implants are designed to last a lifetime, routine check-ups are still essential to monitor the long-term success of the implant and surrounding tissues.

Is Dental Implant Surgery Right for You?

Dental implants are a highly effective, long-lasting solution for individuals who are missing teeth. With advances in technology and techniques, the procedure has become safer, faster, and more predictable. At Nairobi Sterling Dental Clinic, we have quality and up to standard implants, that are FDA-approved for use. We also have qualified and experienced dental practitioners who help our patients get the best out of their implants and change their lives for the better. Moreover, we have a friendly payment package for our patients that ensures the cost of the implants doesn’t have much implication on their financial lives.

Visit us at our clinics in Nairobi, consult with our dentists and get started on your new life with a better, more radiant and glamorous smile with your newly fitted dental implants. We are located at the Park Suites Building in Parklands in Nairobi. You can also contact us for enquiries on dental implants or book your appointment today.