Dental implants are one of the most reliable ways to replace missing teeth and restore a natural-looking smile. Understanding the dental implant procedure step by step helps patients feel confident and prepared before treatment begins. At Bryden Dental Center in Lewiston, our experienced implant dentists, Dr. Dan Wilson and Dr. Bradley Morlock, combine advanced technology with compassionate care to make the process predictable and comfortable.
The journey to a complete smile typically includes several key stages: consultation and planning, possible extraction and site preparation, implant placement, healing and bone integration, and finally, attaching the crown. Each step is designed to create a strong foundation and long-lasting result. Knowing what to expect helps patients make informed choices and reduces anxiety about dental surgery.
Every successful implant begins with a detailed consultation and personalized treatment plan. This first step allows your dentist to evaluate your oral health, bone structure, and medical history before any surgery is performed.
At Bryden Dental Center, the process includes:
This planning phase ensures safety, accuracy, and comfort from start to finish. With precise imaging and expert guidance, patients receive predictable results tailored to their anatomy.
For patients looking to enhance appearance or repair damaged teeth, this consultation often overlaps with other services such as Restorative Dentistry or Cosmetic Dentistry, ensuring a complete approach to care.
Some patients require a tooth extraction before the implant can be placed. This step is common when the natural tooth is too damaged or decayed to save. After extraction, the bone and gum need time to heal before the next phase.
The healing period typically lasts three to four months, allowing the site to become stable enough for implant placement. In some cases, socket preservation or bone grafting may be done immediately after extraction. These techniques help maintain bone volume and prevent the jaw from shrinking, improving long-term implant success.
At Bryden Dental Center, Dr. Wilson and Dr. Morlock perform extractions with care and precision under local anesthesia or mild sedation for comfort. Patients receive detailed aftercare instructions to promote proper healing.
Preparing the site properly is one of the most important steps in creating a strong foundation for the implant. This phase directly affects how securely the implant will fuse with the bone in the next stage.
Implant placement is the surgical step where the titanium post is inserted into the jawbone. This post acts as the artificial root that holds the crown securely in place.
At Bryden Dental Center, the procedure is done under local anesthesia and, if needed, mild sedation to help patients stay relaxed. Using CBCT-guided precision tools, Dr. Wilson or Dr. Morlock creates a small opening in the gum and carefully positions the implant at the exact depth and angle determined during planning.
This process usually takes about one to two hours for a single implant, depending on location and bone density. Once the post is placed, a small healing cap may be attached to protect the area as it heals.
Most patients report minimal discomfort after surgery, and over-the-counter pain relief is usually enough for recovery. Swelling or tenderness typically subsides within a few days.
Implant Dentistry at Bryden Dental Center focuses on precision and patient comfort, ensuring every implant is placed for optimal strength and aesthetics.
A single implant surgery typically takes one to two hours, including preparation and placement. Multiple implants may require more time, but technology like guided implant surgery shortens the process.
For patients with good bone health, same-day placement may be possible, meaning the implant and temporary crown can be placed in one visit. Your dentist will determine whether immediate placement is suitable based on your exam and healing potential.
After placement, healing begins as the implant fuses with the jawbone. This biological process, called osseointegration, is what makes implants stable and durable. The bone grows around the titanium post, securing it firmly in place.
This healing stage typically lasts three to six months. During this time, patients should maintain excellent oral hygiene and attend follow-up visits so their dentist can monitor progress. Smoking or uncontrolled diabetes can slow this stage, so patients are advised to follow all care instructions carefully.
Dr. Wilson and Dr. Morlock use this phase to confirm that the implant has integrated fully before moving forward with the crown. Their ongoing support and precise evaluation help prevent complications and promote long-term success.
Regular visits also give patients an opportunity to review other treatments that may enhance function or appearance, such as Cosmetic Dentistry.
During osseointegration, most patients feel mild pressure or sensitivity near the implant site. This is normal as the bone heals and stabilizes the post. There should not be significant pain once the initial healing period has passed.
Bryden Dental Center’s team provides guidance on managing any discomfort and adjusting oral hygiene routines to protect the area. As healing progresses, the implant starts to feel like a natural part of your mouth.
When healing is complete, the dentist connects an abutment to the implant. This small connector piece attaches the post to the final crown.
The gum is gently opened to expose the implant, and the abutment is secured in place. Then, impressions are taken to design a custom crown that matches the surrounding teeth in shape, color, and size. Bryden Dental Center offers crowns made from porcelain or zirconia, materials known for their strength and natural appearance.
After the crown is attached, patients can chew, smile, and speak with confidence again. With proper care, the restoration can last decades. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, dental implants have a success rate of over 95% when placed by qualified professionals and maintained through routine checkups.
The result is a fully restored smile that looks and feels like your own.
Dental implant surgery is performed under local anesthesia or mild sedation, so you will not feel pain during the procedure. Some soreness afterward is normal, but it is manageable with over-the-counter pain medication and soft foods.
Most patients complete the process in three to four visits over several months. These visits include the consultation, surgery, healing checks, and final crown placement.
For some patients with strong bone structure, same-day implants are an option. Your dentist will evaluate if immediate placement is right for your case.
Dental implants can last 20 years or more, often a lifetime, with good oral hygiene and professional maintenance. Routine cleanings and exams help preserve your results.
Stick to soft foods for the first few days, such as yogurt or scrambled eggs. Avoid hard or sticky foods until the dentist confirms healing is complete.
Choosing dental implants is a long-term investment in your health and confidence. At Bryden Dental Center, Dr. Dan Wilson and Dr. Bradley Morlock bring years of experience and advanced training to every procedure, helping Lewiston patients restore smiles with precision and care.
If you are ready to replace missing teeth or explore implant options, schedule your dental implant consultation in Lewiston today. Call Bryden Dental Center or request an appointment online to begin your personalized treatment plan.
Friendly staff and concerned about patients’ health and care. Great oral care by the dental hygienist that was pain-free. Dr. Wilson is very personable and extremely attentive to oral exams and care.
Everytime I go they do an outstanding job and really take the time and do it right! I appreciate all the work you guys have done for me you have made a huge difference in my smile!
Always friendly and professional. Minimal waiting room time. I would recommend Dr. Wilson anytime.