During Surgery

You'll be given an anesthetic to numb the area where we will be working. Temporary abutments may be used if swelling in your gums needs to go down before an appropriate, permanent abutment can be attached. The second surgery is usually shorter than the first, often lasting no more than a half hour.

Exposing the Implant
A small incision is made in the gum, exposing the top of the implant. The temporary cap is removed.

Attaching the Healing Abutment
The abutment is twisted onto the implant and osseointegration verified..

Creating Adequate Gum Support for the Implant Prosthesis                                                 In In most cases, a temporary (healing) abutment is placed at this time and soft tissue grafting is completed to ensure adequate, sound gum tissues around the implant.

After Surgery

After surgery, you'll rest and bite on gauze to stop any minor bleeding. If a surgical dressing was placed you will be given instructions on keeping it in place and clean. You may be given a prescription for pain medication and scheduled for a follow-up visit. Follow our instructions regarding when you can begin cleaning your abutments. Gently cleaning around the base of each abutment helps prevent infection.

When to Call Your Surgical Specialist

Call me if you have any of these signs:

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