Are you considering dental implants as a tooth replacement option? You’re not alone. Dental implants have become increasingly popular due to their durability, natural appearance, and ability to restore full dental function. At Aesthetic Oral Arts in New Hartford, NY, we’re here to guide you through the entire process, from your initial consultation to recovery. Let’s dive into what you can expect when getting dental implants.

The Initial Consultation

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Timothy Pfister. During this visit, we’ll:

• Evaluate your oral health
• Take X-rays and 3D scans
• Discuss your medical history
• Review your tooth replacement options

This is also your opportunity to ask questions and express any concerns you may have about the dental implants procedure.

Treatment Planning

Based on your consultation, we’ll create a personalized treatment plan. This may include:

• Addressing any existing dental issues
• Bone grafting (if necessary)
• Determining the number and placement of implants
• Scheduling your implant surgery

The Implant Surgery

The actual implant placement is a surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia. Here’s what happens:

1. The gum is opened to expose the bone
2. A small hole is drilled into the bone
3. The titanium implant is placed
4. The gum is closed with stitches

While this may sound intimidating, most patients report minimal discomfort during and after the procedure.

The Healing Process

After implant placement comes a crucial phase: osseointegration. This is when the implant fuses with your jawbone, creating a stable foundation for your new tooth. This process typically takes 3–6 months.

Placing the Abutment and Crown

Once osseointegration is complete, we’ll place an abutment on the implant. This is the connector that will hold your new crown. After your gums heal (usually in about two weeks), we’ll attach your custom-made crown, completing your smile restoration.

Dental Implant Recovery

Immediate Post-Surgery

In the days following your implant surgery, you may experience:

• Swelling and bruising
• Minor bleeding
• Discomfort at the implant site

These symptoms are normal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses.

Long-Term Recovery

Full dental implant recovery takes several months, but you’ll be able to resume most normal activities within a week of surgery. Remember to:

• Maintain excellent oral hygiene
• Avoid hard or chewy foods initially
• Attend all follow-up appointments

Why Choose Dental Implants?

While there are several tooth replacement options available, dental implants offer unique benefits:

• They look and function like natural teeth
• They can last a lifetime with proper care
• They prevent bone loss in the jaw
• They don’t affect adjacent teeth

At Aesthetic Oral Arts, we’re committed to providing you with the best possible care throughout your dental implant journey. If you’re ready to take the first step towards a restored smile, give us a call at (315) 724-7121. We’re here to answer your questions and help you achieve the smile you deserve.