Understanding the Process of Getting a Single Dental Implant: What to Expect

Are you considering a single dental implant procedure? Read this guide to better understand the single dental implant process and what to expect.

Sometimes, losing a tooth can make you feel like you've lost your smile. But times are changing, and that no longer has to be the case.

Advances in implant dentistry have led to exciting treatments that give patients a natural-looking smile and a pain-free mouth. So you no longer have to worry about hiding that gap. 



If you are considering a single dental implant, read on. This guide will explain what you should expect from the moment you discuss the treatment with your dentist to when you leave the clinic with a new smile.

An Initial Consultation

If you need a dental implant, your first step in the single-tooth dental implant process is to book a consultation with your dentist. The dentist will assess your teeth and dental history during this meeting to determine your suitability.

It's also your chance to ask questions or raise any concerns. The dentist is likely to share the different treatment options, including any benefits and risks, so that you can make an informed decision.

Full Dental Examination

After the initial consultation, you'll have a more thorough examination of your teeth. This meeting will check your oral health before determining your suitability for a dental implant.

The dentist will use X-ray or 3D imaging during this examination to get a more comprehensive view of the teeth and jawbone. It will ensure no underlying conditions in the gums or bone could hinder the chance of implant success. 

You'll Receive a Personalized Treatment Plan

After your examination, it's time to receive your assessment. This assessment is a plan from the dentist outlining your implant procedure. You'll also receive the final single-tooth dental implant cost.

The dentist will customize this assessment according to your specific needs, such as the condition of the gums and jaw surrounding the implant. This plan will tell you the exact steps and timeline for your implant.

It will also outline the type of anesthesia used during the treatment. That's something the dentist will discuss with you during the dental examination. 



It will also advise you on preparing for the treatment before the implant date. 

Preparatory Work for a Single Dental Implant

In some instances, your dentist may recommend some preparation work before your implant. That can happen if you suffer from more advanced gum disease or have issues with your jawbone.



The dentist can take steps to help your implant, such as offering gum disease treatment. 

Implant Surgery

In your treatment plan, you'll have a date for your surgery. You must prepare for the surgery on that date, including brushing and flossing your teeth. You may also need to arrange for transportation after the treatment.

When the dentist starts the procedure, they insert an implant post into the jawbone.

This takes time because the dentist must ensure the post aligns with the natural tooth position. Once the post is in place, it begins fusing with the jawbone.

During this phase of the treatment, it's possible to place a temporary denture on the post for cosmetic purposes before the final crown is fitted. 

Osseointegration and Healing Time

The post will fuse with the jawbone; the technical term for this process is osseointegration. As the post fuses, it creates a stronger foundation for the eventual tooth.



However, this fusing doesn't happen overnight. It takes months. You must follow the dentist's care instructions for the mouth and post during this time. You may also have checkups.

Placing the Abutment

Once the post has fused to your jawbone, you'll return to the dentist for the next step of the implant process. This step involves the dentist placing an abutment on the post.



An abutment is a connector between the post and the final tooth. It's a quick procedure; you'll need a further healing period after the placement. 

Dental Impressions

The next step the dentist will take is an impression of your tooth.

The dental team will use this impression to design a crown that perfectly fits the new implant. It's an exact process; the impression ensures the crown feels comfortable and looks natural in the patient's mouth. 



A dental technician will craft the final crown using this impression. The type of material will be something you decide with the dentist during your initial consultation. Ceramic and porcelain are the two most common options. 

Crown Placement

The final step to a new smile is to have the dentist fit your crown. The crown attaches to the abutment, so the procedure is relatively straightforward. In most cases, the dentist will perform it under local anesthesia.



The dentist will check the fit and alignment of the crown, including how it fits with the rest of the teeth.

Follow-Ups After the Procedure

Once you have your new dental implant, the dentist will schedule a follow-up to check whether the implant is successful.

They'll check the post, abutment, and crown to ensure they're secure and fit well in the mouth. The dental team will also make sure you have no single-tooth dental implant side effects. 

The dentist will also give you aftercare advice. The tooth will need a similar level of care as natural teeth.



That includes brushing and flossing. The dentist will also check to ensure you feel comfortable with the implant and aren't experiencing any pain.

Long-Term Care

Implants are a long-term dental treatment that will last many years. However, they also need plenty of long-term care, including excellent oral hygiene.

That means establishing a routine of brushing, flossing, and mouthwash to protect your surrounding teeth and gums.

You should also secure regular checkups with your dentist so they can monitor the implant and the rest of your teeth. 

Repairing Your Smile With the Latest Technology

A single dental implant is the perfect solution if you have lost a tooth. The implant fits right into the jawbone, which means it's the closest thing you can get to a natural tooth. 

We hope this guide answered some of your questions about implants. Now, it's time to take the next step.



Our experienced team at Garland K. Davis, DDS takes pride in creating the best smiles. Find out more about our implants and our special offer by heading here.