Dental implants are a natural-looking, dependable, and lasting way to replace missing teeth. If you’re considering implants, you’ll need to know what to expect so that you can feel confident and comfortable with your treatment choice. I’m Dr. Lee Fitzgerald, an experienced implant dentist serving Plano, Dallas, and surrounding areas. Let me walk you through the steps involved in dental implant placement and restoration.
At your complimentary consultation at Dental Implant Center, I’ll review your records and discuss your expectations so that I gain a comprehensive understanding of what you want. We’ll talk about the benefits of implants, and I’ll explain how we can replace missing teeth or secure a denture, partial, or bridge. Together, we’ll create a customized treatment plan that meets your goals, budget, and schedule.
Following your consultation, expect about three visits to complete the dental implant process. Here’s what will occur at each appointment:
Your First Visit: Information Gathering
At this visit, we’ll take digital X-rays and analyze 3D images of your oral structures created with cone beam scanning technology. These images will provide valuable information to help me assess your candidacy and determine a precise plan for optimal implant placement. I’ll let you know if you need a bone graft or sinus graft to increase jawbone mass to support implants. (If you require surgery, we’ll perform it prior to or at the same time as implant placement.)
Your Second Visit: Implant Placement
I’ll surgically insert a tiny titanium post for each missing tooth or a few to secure a prosthetic. Depending on your unique situation, I may mount your replacement teeth the day of your surgery. Most patients require a three- to nine-month healing phase; three months is the norm.
Your Third Visit: Restoration of Your Smile
I find this part of the process immensely gratifying, and so do my patients! During this appointment, I’ll attach your replacement teeth – custom crowns or your denture, partial, or bridge – to beautifully restore your smile.
I have renewed countless smiles at my state-of-the-art Dental Implant Center. I invite you to schedule a consultation and discover how this revolutionary replacement tooth option can change your smile and your life.