Dental Implant Procedure in
Daly City & San Francisco & San Mateo

The Surgical Procedure

Dental implants are an advanced solution for replacing missing or damaged teeth. They offer a permanent, natural-looking replacement option and restore function and aesthetics to your smile. At Archstone Oral Surgery, we utilize state-of-the-art technology and expert techniques to ensure a successful and comfortable implant procedure.

The dental implant procedure involves placing a titanium post into the jawbone to serve as a replacement root for the missing tooth. After healing, a custom-made crown is attached to the implant, restoring both the function and appearance of the lost tooth.

Step-by-Step Process of Dental Implant Placement:

1. Consultation and Assessment
   The journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. Our specialists will examine your oral health, take X-rays or 3D scans, and discuss your goals for the procedure. This step ensures you’re a good candidate for dental implants.

2. Implant Placement
   During a minor surgical procedure, a titanium post (implant) is placed into the jawbone where the missing tooth root once was. This post will serve as a foundation for the new tooth. The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable throughout.

3. Osseointegration (Healing Phase)
   After the implant is placed, a healing period of 3-6 months is required for the implant to fuse with the jawbone. This process is called osseointegration, and it ensures the implant becomes a strong and permanent foundation for the artificial tooth.

4. Attaching the Abutment
   Once the implant is fully integrated with the bone, an abutment is placed on top of the implant. This small connector piece allows the custom-made crown to be attached securely.

5. Placement of the Crown
   After the abutment is in place, a custom-designed crown, made to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth, is fixed onto the abutment. This final step completes the procedure, leaving you with a fully functional, aesthetically pleasing replacement tooth.

1. Normal

2. Tooth Loss

3. Healed Bone

4. Implant Placed

5. Healing

6. Implant Restored

Why Choose Dental Implants?

• Permanent Solution: With proper care, dental implants can last for decades.
• Natural Look and Feel: Implants mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth.
• Improved Functionality: Implants restore chewing ability and enhance your confidence in speaking and smiling.
• Preserves Jawbone: Implants prevent bone loss that typically occurs when teeth are missing.
• No Impact on Neighboring Teeth: Unlike dental bridges, implants do not require altering adjacent teeth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care. The crown attached to the implant may need to be replaced every 10-15 years, but the implant itself can remain functional for several decades.

2. Is the dental implant procedure painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort after the procedure, especially since local anesthesia is used. You may experience mild swelling or soreness, which can be managed with prescribed pain medication. The healing process varies from person to person, but many find the discomfort to be manageable.

3. How long does the dental implant procedure take?
The entire process typically takes several months. The surgical procedure to place the implant itself usually takes about 1-2 hours per implant. However, the healing and osseointegration phase can take 3-6 months before the final crown is placed.

4. Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Ideal candidates are generally in good oral health and have enough jawbone to support the implant. If you have bone loss, options such as bone grafting may be available to ensure the success of the implant. Our oral surgeon will evaluate your individual case to determine the best treatment plan.

5. How do I care for my dental implants?
Dental implants are cared for in much the same way as natural teeth. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups are important to maintain oral hygiene and ensure the longevity of your implant.

6. What are the risks associated with dental implants?
Like any surgical procedure, dental implants come with some risks, such as infection, implant failure, or nerve damage. However, these risks are rare when performed by an experienced oral surgeon. We will provide you with all necessary information to minimize these risks.

7. Will dental implants affect my speech or eating?
No, dental implants function just like natural teeth, so they will not affect your speech or ability to eat. Many patients report improved chewing function and speech clarity after receiving implants.

8. How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of dental implants varies depending on factors like the number of implants required, the complexity of the procedure, and your individual needs. During your consultation, we will provide a detailed cost estimate and discuss payment options.

9. Are dental implants covered by insurance?
Dental implants may not be fully covered by insurance, but some plans may cover a portion of the cost. We recommend checking with your insurance provider or our office for assistance in understanding your coverage.

For more information or to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced oral surgeons, please contact us today.