Receiving Dental Implants in Columbia, SC? Here's What to Expect Throughout the Process and During Recovery

A missing tooth can be a sensitive issue, casting a shadow of embarrassment. Whether it's a barely noticeable gap or several missing teeth, the impact on self-esteem is undeniable. Yet, no one should have to endure it.

Fortunately, there are options available; Dental implants are by far the best for many reasons. They’re solid and capable of replacing the function of normal teeth. They allow patients to chew. They don’t cause abrasions or scrapes, and they don’t stand out. They can even be tinted to match the proper shade. Nobody will ever know they are there. 

They're incredibly tough too. Even though they're considered semi-permanent, they can handle a lot and are far from delicate. Actually, they usually last a lifetime. You won't need to fuss over them much or spend a ton on appointments. It's a simple process that ends with a beautiful smile.

What to Expect When Receiving Dental Implants

Some people avoid dental implants because they’re daunted by the idea of undergoing surgery. It’s completely unnecessary, of course. Most implants can be installed using either twilight or local anesthesia, allowing patients to remain conscious yet pain-free. 

The process is relatively easy to understand. It involves several steps spread out across multiple appointments, and those steps will vary based on an individual's condition. Let’s go over the basics below. 

1. Extraction: Implants are designed to replace both missing and damaged teeth. In cases where damaged teeth are still present, extraction is necessary prior to the implant procedure. Despite any initial concerns, the process is relatively quick and painless, especially when performed at Soda City Dentistry. We handle the entire dental implant procedure in our Columbia, SC dental office, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.
2. Jawbone Graft: In most cases, the jawbone requires reinforcement to support an implant. This is achieved through a bone graft, ensuring the implant has a sturdy foundation for long-term success. While this may seem like a complex procedure, at Soda City Dentistry under the guidance of Dr. Robert Guerriero, it's considered routine, with most patients reporting a virtually painless experience.
3. Placing the Implant: The dental implant itself is not the visible part of the tooth; rather, it's a small, screw-like post that is placed during a separate visit to our Columbia, SC office, after any necessary extractions and bone grafting have been completed. This is followed by the attachment of the abutment and temporary restoration.
4. Crown Insertion: The final step in the dental implant procedure involves the placement of the permanent restoration onto the implant. This restoration, typically a crown, bridge, or denture, is custom-made to fit seamlessly with your natural teeth and complement your smile.  

Advanced medical technology guides every step of this process at Soda City Dentistry in Columbia, SC, where we complete the entire dental implant procedure in-house. By harnessing cutting-edge digital imaging software and sophisticated tools, we ensure precise implant placement tailored to each patient's unique needs and anatomy. This comprehensive approach, coupled with our focus on the end result, ultimately yields the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Recovery Process For Dental Implants

Patients often cringe when they hear the word “recovery.” To most, it means lengthy downtime, days spent in bed, sipping food from a straw. But that’s just not the case with dental implants. Healing will take time–months in some cases–but the pain is minimal and easily treated, and there are no drastic interruptions to daily life. 

1. Extraction Recovery: Recovery from extraction depends on the severity of the wound. Pain typically subsides within a few days, and patients can generally resume normal activities shortly thereafter.
2. Dental Bone Graft: Patients can usually return to normal activities within a couple of weeks after receiving a bone graft. Full recovery varies, but it may take several months for the wound to completely heal before the implant can be installed.
3. Placing the Implant: After the implant is inserted into the jawbone, gum healing usually occurs within a few weeks. Patients will receive instructions on proper cleaning during this time. Full recovery time varies.
4. Crown Insertion: Discomfort after crown insertion usually diminishes over time. Detailed cleaning and recovery instructions will be provided. Once the recovery period has passed, patients can generally treat their implant like a normal tooth.

Let’s Start This Journey Together

Soda City Dentistry has the equipment and training necessary to oversee the entire implant process. This allows us to focus on the end result and give our patients a more personalized touch, ensuring that their needs are met. 

If you need an implant or you’re curious about the procedure, schedule an appointment with Dr. Robert Guerriero today. 

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