After Implant Placement FAQ

What can I use for teeth while the implants heal?

What are the potential problems after dental implant surgery?

Most patients are surprised that dental implant surgery causes minimal discomfort. Pain medication and antibiotics are usually prescribed to make recovery easier.

Occasionally, patients may develop an infection that requires additional antibiotic treatment.

Although implants are placed carefully, nearby teeth can rarely be affected during the procedure. There is also a small risk of irritation to the nerve in the lower jaw, which provides feeling to the lower lip and chin.

If the jawbone is thin or limited, placing an implant may come close to this nerve. This may cause temporary symptoms such as:

• Tingling

• Numbness

• Reduced sensation in the lip, chin, or tongue

These symptoms usually improve over time but may occasionally be permanent. If you experience numbness after surgery, notify our office as soon as possible so we can properly manage your care.

How long will the implants last?

Dental implants are designed to be a long-lasting solution for missing teeth.

For patients missing all of their teeth, long-term studies show an 80–90% success rate over more than 30 years. For patients missing only one or several teeth, success rates are greater than 95%.

If an implant does not heal properly or loosens later, it may need to be removed. After the area heals, a new implant can often be placed.

When are the replacement teeth attached to the implant?

Replacement teeth are typically attached once the implant has fully fused with the jawbone. Depending on your situation, this may occur immediately or after a healing period.

Your doctor will review the best treatment timeline for your specific case.

Creating the final replacement teeth is a detailed process. Much of the work involves designing and fabricating the new teeth before they are placed.

Your dentist will begin by taking specialized impressions of your mouth and implants. Bite records are also made to show how your upper and lower teeth fit together.

Using this information, the dentist creates abutments, which are small support posts that connect the replacement teeth to the implants. Some abutments are standard, while others are custom-made from gold or tooth-colored ceramic.

The number of appointments required varies for each patient. Even if only a few teeth are replaced, the process requires careful planning and precision.

How do I clean my new teeth?

Implant-supported teeth should be cleaned just like natural teeth.

Daily care should include:

• Brushing

• Flossing

• Any special cleaning tools recommended by your dentist

You should also visit your dentist several times per year for professional cleanings and maintenance.

Like all dental restorations, implant components may wear over time. Maintenance may include:

• Clip replacement

• Denture relines

• Screw tightening

• Minor adjustments

Will one doctor do everything?

In most cases, two dental professionals are involved in implant treatment.

An oral surgeon typically places the implants and performs any surgical procedures. Your general dentist then creates and places the temporary and final replacement teeth.

Both doctors work together to plan your treatment. In some cases, other dental specialists may also assist.

How much does dental implant treatment cost?

Before treatment begins, we will provide an estimate of the costs involved in placing implants and creating replacement teeth.

Initial costs may include a diagnostic evaluation, which may involve:

• X-rays

• Study models

• Surgical planning guides

Your general dentist will also charge for the components used in the final restoration, such as:

• Abutments (support posts)

• Crowns

• Bridges or dentures

• Temporary restorations

Additional costs may include routine maintenance visits, denture adjustments, or repairs.

When multiple doctors are involved, each provider will bill separately for their services. Our office will help estimate your out-of-pocket costs after reviewing your insurance coverage or third-party payments.

Because every patient’s situation is unique, treatment costs and timelines can vary. If you have questions about your options, please contact our office. We are happy to discuss your treatment and help you understand your dental care plan.