This post explains the process of dental implants in Flowood, MS and what you can expect from your first visit to the final restoration. You’ll get a clear, step-by-step overview, common risks and costs, who’s a good candidate, and practical next steps to prepare for a consult.
Read on for straightforward answers and tips that make the journey easier to understand and plan for.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts placed into the jaw to replace missing tooth roots. They act as a stable base for crowns, bridges, or dentures. Patients choose implants for better chewing, improved speech, bone preservation, and a more natural look compared with removable dentures.
A Clear Step-by-Step Guide to the Process of Dental Implants
1. Consultation & Digital Planning
Your first visit includes a medical and dental history review, exam, and digital imaging. 3D scans and intraoral scans let the team map bone, nerves, and sinus locations. From those images, your dentist creates a custom treatment plan with timelines and goals.
2. Preparing the Mouth
Preparations may include extracting failing teeth and treating any infections. If jawbone is too thin, a bone graft can be placed — healing for grafts typically takes a few months before implants are placed.
3. Implant Placement Surgery
Implants are positioned into the jaw using surgical guides for accuracy. Sedation options like nitrous oxide or IV sedation are available for comfort. The procedure often takes one to a few hours depending on how many implants are placed.
4. Healing & Osseointegration
Over weeks to months the bone fuses to the implant in a process called osseointegration. Many patients wear a temporary crown or denture while healing. Typical healing ranges from 8 to 16 weeks, depending on bone quality and health.
5. Abutment Attachment & Final Restoration
Once healed, an abutment is attached to the implant and digital impressions (CAD/CAM) are taken. Your final crown, bridge, or implant-supported denture is made and adjusted for fit, bite, and appearance.
6. Aftercare and Maintenance
Daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits keep implants healthy. Expect periodic checkups and cleanings. Report swelling, persistent pain, or loosening to your dentist right away.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Implants?
Good candidates generally include adults with missing teeth, adequate bone, and good overall health.
- Ideal: non-smokers, controlled chronic conditions, good oral hygiene
- Limitations: heavy smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, severe bone loss
- Complex cases: advanced techniques like zygomatic implants can help patients with severe upper jaw bone loss
Risks, Timeline, and Typical Costs
Common risks include infection, nerve irritation, and implant failure, though serious problems are uncommon. The timeline from consult to final crown is usually 3–9 months. Costs vary by number of implants, need for grafting, materials, and lab work.
How Revive Denture & Implant Studio Approaches the Process of Dental Implants
At Revive Denture & Implant Studio, the team uses a single-office workflow to guide patients through the process of dental implants in Flowood, MS using on-site digital imaging, intraoral scanning, and surgical guides. Sedation options and an education-focused path help patients feel informed and comfortable.
Meet Dr. Joseph Boone — A Quick Note
Dr. Joseph Boone, DMD, completed implant residencies and advanced training and holds implant fellowships. He offers experience with complex cases and emphasizes precise, digital-driven care.
Preparing for Your First Visit & Next Steps
Bring medical history, a list of medications, and questions about sedation, timeline, and cost. Ask about financing and insurance options. Ready to learn more? Schedule a consultation to review your options and get a personalized plan.
