Dental Implant surgery: questions / answers

What examinations are needed before dental implant surgery can be performed ?

topographie

  • There are many cases that require a scan in order to establish the volume and density of bone needed in the implant zone. The dental surgeon will choose the length and diameter of the implant on the basis of these results.
  • The patient may have to have blood tests to make sure bone metabolism and coagulation rates are satisfactory.
  • For implant surgery, these tests are non-classified for reimbursement purposes and the cost therefore has to be borne by the patient.

How does implant treatment proceed ?

  • Several dental implants may be mounted in the course of the same session
  • The surgical procedure itself usually lasts between 30 minutes and two hours.
  • This depends on the number of implants to be mounted and whether or not bone grafting has to be carried out.
  • Post-surgical healing takes two to six months, depending on the quality of the bone.
  • Check-ups are necessary in the months after implant surgery, especially during the healing period. In general, an appointment every six weeks is recommended.
  • The prosthetic procedures may be performed quickly (two or three appointments in the case of a single crown) or, on the contrary, may require several appointments (6 to 10 over a period of two months), particularly in the case of complete reconstruction.
  • During all the treatment phases and depending on what the patient needs, there is the possibility of wearing a temporary implant (so that the patient does not have to be without teeth).

Is it painful ?

  • The procedure is carried out under local anaesthesia so the patient feels absolutely nothing.
  • However, when the anaesthetic wears off, it is perfectly normal to feel some stinging. Taking pain relief medication at regular intervals will help prevent the pain. It is also essential to follow the postoperative instructions provided by your dentist.

Remember

Implants are a reliable and durable treatment.

If you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to ask your dental surgeon. Over 98% if implants are a success in the short term, over 90% in the long term.