How Dental Implants Work – Myrtle Beach, SC
Achieving a Longer-Lasting Smile
Dr. Jack Markusen understands the process of dental implant placement can be a lot for an individual to understand in a short amount of time. This is why he and our team will sit down with you during your consultation and explain how dental implants work and what you can expect the process to look like. Because every patient is different, we will make sure to go over, in detail, the start-to-finish treatment you’ll receive and how long you can expect it to take to achieve your finalized smile. To find out more about the dental implant process, contact us today.
Initial Dental Implant Consultation
To begin the process of receiving dental implants, you will schedule a consultation with your implant dentist. Dr. Markusen will examine your oral cavity, facial structure, and bone density to determine if you are a qualified candidate. If so, he will capture impressions of your smile and begin preparing a treatment plan. If necessary, he may recommend pre-implant placement dental work (i.e. periodontal therapy, tooth extraction, bone graft) should you show any signs of gum disease or weakened bone that could cause your implants to fail.
Dental Implant Surgery
Partnering with a trusted specialist, Dr. Markusen will make sure your surgical placement is smooth and successful. Depending on the number of dental implants you will need, the oral surgeon will make one or more small incisions in your gums before inserting each implant and moving it into its proper place. After closing your gum tissue, you will be instructed to spend the next 3-6 months at home recovering.
Dental Implant Osseointegration & Abutment
While at home, the process of osseointegration will begin, which is the fusing of your dental implants with your jawbone and surrounding tissues. It is during this time that you will need to follow detailed instructions by the oral surgeon and Dr. Markusen to ensure your recovery is swift and successful. This means avoiding certain foods, lifestyle habits (i.e. smoking or excessive alcohol consumption), and taking any over-the-counter medication to minimize discomfort and swelling.
Once you are fully healed, you will return to have your abutments put into place. These are small, metal appliances that sit on top of your implants and connect to your restoration.
Placement of Dental Implant Restorations
The final step in the dental implant placement process is to receive your customized restoration. Because dental implants are a versatile tooth replacement solution, Dr. Markusen can have a dental crown, bridge, or denture created depending on how many teeth were originally missing. Once it is secured in place, he will ensure it looks completely natural and provide a final polish before giving you the green light to start enjoying your new smile.