Preparing for Surgery

Dental implant surgery is performed in our main office where we have the neccessary specialized facility, equipment and staff. Be sure to wear comfortable clothes and arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home. Depending on the type of anesthesia used, you may be told not to eat or drink for several hours before your appointment. Before surgery, you may be asked to take oral antibiotics, brush your teeth, and rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash to help prevent infection.

During Surgery

You may have medication to help you relax or to make you sleepy. Then, you'll be given an anesthetic to numb the area where I as your surgical specialist will be working. You may hear sounds or feel vibrations during the surgery. If you are uncomfortable at any time, tell us. The entire procedure may take a couple of hours.

Making the Incision
A small opening is made in your gum, exposing the jawbone. This incision will be sutured closed after the implants are in position.

Preparing the Bone
A precise hole (osteotomy) is slowly and gently drilled into the bone. The hole is exactly deep and wide enough to fit the particular implant chosen for you.

Placing the Implant
The implant is gently twisted  into position. Then a temporary cap is placed over the implant and the gum incision is closed.

After Surgery

After surgery, you'll probably rest awhile, bite on guaze to stop any minor bleeding, and hold a cold pack to your face to reduce swelling. You can go home as soon as you feel able. At home, follow our instructions about taking pain medications and antibiotics. Drink only clear liquids for the rest of the day. By the next morning, you may be able to eat soft foods.

Caring for Your Mouth
Use a soft-bristled brush to clean both you teeth and gums. Be sure to follow any special intructions on cleaning near your incisions. To aid healing, you may be asked not to wear your complete or partial denture for the next several days.

When to Call Your Surgeon

Call my emergency cell number if you experience any of the following:

- Extreme swelling near your jaws or under your tongue
- Fever or ongoing bleeding
- Pain in your jaws, mouth, or sinuses that isn't relieved by your prescribed medication

Follow-up Care

Over the next several months, we routinely examine your mouth and monitor how well your jaw is healing. If you wear a complete or partial denture, the restorative dentist will place a new lining in it so you can wear it during the rest of the healing process.