Dental Implant Process

St. Louis County Dental: With You Every Step of the Way

The dental implant process may seem like a frightening and overwhelming experience. But at St. Louis County Dental, we aim to make sure our patients have all the information they need at their disposal. Charting a course for oral health has many options, and it can be hard to know exactly what the next step should be. Dr. Barry Brace wants our patients to know he and our St. Louis team will be with them for every step of the process.

Call our St. Louis implant dentist at 314-762-6784 to learn more about the dental implant procedure. We are proud to welcome patients from the surrounding communities of Woodbine, Kirkwood, and Clayton to experience the St. Louis County Dental difference.

Why Choose Dental Implants?

Missing teeth can lead to numerous challenges, including difficulty eating, speaking, and even self-esteem issues. Dental implants offer a sturdy solution by replacing the root of your tooth with a titanium post, which will eventually support an artificial tooth or crown. People prefer dental implants because they provide a permanent fix that mimics the look and feel of natural teeth.

At St. Louis County Dental, we understand the aesthetic and health benefits of replacing missing teeth. Our team utilizes the latest technology to ensure precision in every aspect of the implant process, creating a comfortable experience for our patients.

The Complete Process of Dental Implant Surgery

Your Initial Consultation with Dr. Brace

The first step to achieving a beautiful smile is scheduling a $1 consultation at our St. Louis, MO, office to learn more about it.

During your appointment with Dr. Brace, you will weigh the benefits of dental implants for your oral health and whether you are a candidate for implants. He’ll also discuss the dental implant process with you step-by-step. This is the perfect time to ask questions and provide him with details about your day-to-day life. He’ll use this information to determine the correct treatment to fit your needs.

We’ll use our advanced technology to take images of your mouth. We use these to simulate where we will place your implants and what the end result will look like.

Supplemental Procedures

For some patients, additional supplemental procedures may be necessary before proceeding with dental implants. If you have suffered from bone loss in the jaw due to extended periods of missing teeth, a bone graft may be recommended. This process helps ensure that there is sufficient bone density to hold the implant securely. Soft tissue grafts might also be performed to enhance the gum tissue surrounding the implant site.

These preliminary procedures may require patience, but they are vital for the long-term success of your dental implants. By addressing these concerns, we can pave the way for a smooth implant process.

Dental Implant Placement Surgery

Dr. Brace will attach your implants to your jaw so that they’ll imitate your natural teeth exactly. This is possible through a process called osseointegration. Osseointegration is the process of the implant fusing with the jawbone. The purpose of this technique is to stimulate jawbone growth and allow your jaw to become stronger.

You’ll be sent home with special aftercare instructions to ensure your dental implants heal correctly and don’t become infected. This includes how to care for your implants and things you should avoid until your mouth is healed.

Recovery and Healing Time

The recovery period after implant surgery varies among individuals, but most patients can expect some degree of swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort. Over-the-counter pain medications can help manage these symptoms effectively. It’s important to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions carefully.

During the initial healing phase, a soft food diet is recommended to avoid putting pressure on the surgical site. Gradually, as you recover, you will be able to reintroduce more solid foods into your diet. Full recovery and osseointegration can take anywhere from three to six months, depending on individual factors.

Final Restoration Placement

After your implant has securely integrated with your jawbone, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled for the placement of the final restoration. This typically involves attaching a crown, bridge, or implant-supported denture to the dental implant.

The restoration is custom-made to match the color, size, and appearance of your natural teeth, providing you with a seamless and natural-looking result. Many patients leave our St. Louis dental office with a renewed smile and a fresh sense of confidence.