Dental Implants Procedure: What to Expect

Considering dental implants in Raleigh or Cary? Implants are a long-term, natural-looking way to replace missing teeth and restore function. Below, we outline what implants are, each step of treatment, and how to prepare and recover—so you know exactly what to expect.

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a biocompatible post (usually titanium) placed in the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. After it bonds to bone (osseointegration), it supports an abutment and custom crown. Implants help you eat, speak, and smile confidently, protect jawbone volume, and don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support.

The Dental Implant Procedure: Step by Step

1. 1) Consultation & Planning

   Your dentist evaluates gums and bone, reviews your medical history, and may take 3D scans. If needed, preparatory care (periodontal therapy, extractions, or bone grafting) is planned to set you up for success.

2. 2) Surgical Placement

   With local anesthesia—and optional oral or IV sedation—a small opening is made in the gum and a channel is prepared in the bone. The implant is placed, and the site is closed or fitted with a healing cap.

3. 3) Healing & Osseointegration

   Over the next few months, bone fuses to the implant, creating a stable foundation. You’ll have check-ins to monitor healing and review home-care.

4. 4) Abutment Placement

   Once integrated, a small connector (abutment) is attached. The gums heal around it, shaping a natural emergence profile.

5. 5) Custom Crown

   Digital or traditional impressions are taken for your crown. At delivery, your dentist verifies fit and bite, then secures the crown.

Before Surgery: How to Prepare

• Medical review: Share conditions, medications, and allergies. Some meds (e.g., blood thinners) may require coordination with your physician.
• Smoking: Quitting improves healing and long-term outcomes.
• Food & drink: If IV sedation is planned, follow fasting instructions.
• Comfort plan: Arrange a ride home for sedation and stock soft foods (yogurt, eggs, soups).

After Surgery: Recovery & Care

It’s normal to experience mild soreness, swelling, and small amounts of bleeding for 24–72 hours.

• Pain & swelling: Use prescribed/approved pain relief; apply cold packs in the first 24 hours.
• Oral hygiene: Keep the area clean. Brush gently; use any recommended rinses. Avoid vigorous spitting or straws initially.
• Diet: Soft foods at first; advance as comfortable. Avoid hard or sticky foods on the surgical side.
• Follow-ups: Attend all checks so your dentist can monitor healing and guide next steps.
• Call promptly if you notice persistent bleeding, increasing pain after day 3, fever, or the prosthesis feeling loose.

Is an Implant Right for Me?

Ideal candidates have healthy gums, adequate bone (or are open to grafting), and commit to good home-care and regular cleanings. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or heavy smoking can affect healing—your dentist in Raleigh or Cary will tailor recommendations to you.

Next Steps

Ready to explore a strong, natural-looking solution for missing teeth? Schedule an implant consultation with Dr. Charles Ferzli and the Smiles of Cary team for a personalized plan and timeline.

Call (919) 646-6538 or request your appointment online today.