Name of the Procedure:

Common Name: Dental Implant Placement
Technical Term: Surgical Placement of Implant Body: Endosteal Implant (D6010)

Summary

A dental implant placement involves surgically installing a "root" device into the jawbone to support a crown, bridge, or denture. This procedure helps restore functions like chewing and speaking, and it improves the appearance of missing teeth.

Purpose

This procedure is designed to:

• Address missing or severely damaged teeth.
• Provide a stable foundation for artificial teeth.
• Enhance oral function and aesthetics.

Indications

• Missing teeth due to injury, decay, or congenital absence.
• Patients with sufficient jawbone to support an implant.
• Good overall and oral health.
• Non-smokers or willing to quit smoking.

Preparation

• Comprehensive dental evaluation, including X-rays and possibly a CT scan.
• Review of medical history and medications.
• Pre-procedure instructions may include fasting if sedation or general anesthesia is planned.
• Antibiotics may be prescribed as a preventative measure.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia is administered.
2. Incision: A small incision is made in the gum to expose the jawbone.
3. Drilling: A specialized dental drill creates a socket in the bone.
4. Implant Placement: The endosteal implant (a metal post) is inserted into the prepared socket.
5. Osseointegration Phase: The gum is closed, and a period (usually a few months) is allowed for the implant to fuse with the bone.
6. Abutment Placement: Once integration is secured, a connector (abutment) is attached to the implant.
7. Final Restoration: A custom-made crown or denture is attached to the abutment.

Duration

The initial surgery typically takes 1-2 hours per implant. The entire process, including osseointegration and final restoration, may span several months.

Setting

This procedure is generally performed in a dental office, outpatient clinic, or surgical center.

Personnel

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon or Periodontist
• Dental Assistant or Nurse
• Anesthesiologist (if sedation or general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Infection at the implant site.
• Injury to surrounding teeth or nerves.
• Sinus issues (for upper jaw implants).

Rare Risks:

• Implant failure due to inability to fuse with bone.
• Peri-implantitis (inflammation around the implant).

Management includes antibiotics, further surgical interventions, or implant replacement.

Benefits

• Restores natural tooth function and prevents bone loss.
• Improves speech, comfort, and appearance.
• Long-lasting and durable.

Benefits may be realized within a few months after osseointegration and final restoration.

Recovery

• Post-procedure discomfort managed with pain relief medications.
• Soft food diet and good oral hygiene are essentials.
• Swelling and bruising are common but subside within a few days.
• Full recovery and integration take several months.

Alternatives

• Bridges: Less invasive but can compromise adjacent teeth and bone structure.
• Dentures: Non-surgical, affordable but less stable and comfortable.
• Partial Dentures: Removable and cost-effective but may also be less stable.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients will feel little to no pain due to anesthesia. Post-surgery, they may experience swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort, which are manageable with prescribed medications. Regular follow-up visits ensure proper healing and successful integration of the implant. Pain management, including over-the-counter or prescribed medications, helps maintain comfort throughout the recovery process.