Dental Implant Surgery Charleston, SC
Dental implants are teeth prostheses usually used for adults with missing teeth. Implant restorations are designed to feel, function, and appear like natural teeth. Dental implant surgery involves the surgical placement of implant posts into the jawbone.
Dental implant surgery is available at Hudgens Dental in Charleston and the surrounding area. Aside from the cosmetic benefits of dental implants, they also help preserve the oral cavity structure. To learn more about this process, call our office at (843) 588-5115 to book an appointment with Hudgens Dental.
Getting Started with Dental Implant Surgery
Due to the surgical nature of the process, the dentist will perform a comprehensive evaluation to ensure the patient is eligible for the implant restoration. The dentist may use X-rays, teeth models, CT scans, and a precision surgical guide during this process. This will allow them to determine the patient's bite, the proper positioning of the implants and restoration, and the quality and density of the jawbone. Then, they will judge the condition of the jawbone based on the scans and the number of teeth that need replacement.
The dental professional will also inquire about any existing medical condition and current medications, including supplements and those bought over the counter. If the patient has a cardiovascular condition, diabetes, or orthopedic implants, the dentist may prescribe antibiotics ahead of the surgery to stop the infection. The dentist will also discuss pain management options and provide instructions to follow before and after the surgery.
Patients should arrange for transport home after the treatment because they may not be fit to drive. In addition, it is also a good idea to free up one's schedule and rest for at least 24 hours after the surgery, as rest is an important part of the recovery process.
“Patients should arrange for transport home after the treatment because they may not be fit to drive.”
Preparing for the Surgery
Dentists typically perform dental implant surgery in multiple stages, allowing the jawbone to heal fully before attempting further operations. The surgery starts with a process known as "site preparation." This requires preparing a small hole in the bone, called an osteotomy. The dentist will create small incisions on the gums (to form small flaps) to reach the bone. Then, they will provide a visual of the bone's shape and location.
If a surgical guide was created, the dentist will place it in the patient's mouth and perform the osteotomy through it for accuracy. The dentist will use a drilling sequence that increases the hole gradually until it matches the implant shape perfectly for the required precision fit.
“Dentists typically perform dental implant surgery in multiple stages, allowing the jawbone to heal fully before attempting further operations.”
What to Expect During Dental Implant Placement
During dental implant surgery, the surgeon makes an incision into the gums where the missing tooth was. The surgeon then drills into the jawbone. After accessing fairly deep inside the jawbone, the surgeon will position the dental implant post. The post along with the surrounding bone serves as the primary support of the artificial tooth.
We will not place the artificial tooth until after the implant fuses with the surrounding bone through a process known as osseointegration. This process typically takes several months. In the meantime, there will be a gap where the missing tooth (or missing teeth) was. Your dentist may recommend a temporary replacement tooth until the mouth and implant are ready for the placement of the abutment and artificial tooth.
“The implant is essentially in the same place the root of the natural tooth was.”
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Post-Surgery Care and Check-Ups
Minor swelling, soreness, and bleeding of the gums are common symptoms following dental implant surgery. Fortunately, there are certain post-surgery home care techniques the patient can implement to make the recovery process as effortless as possible. Additionally, patients are encouraged to avoid foods that may irritate the implant site. These foods can include those that are hard to chew, are either very hot or cold or contain a high level of sugar. Also, it is best to drink water rather than soft drinks, tea, coffee, and other dark beverages that contain sugar. We may also require one or more check-up visits to ensure that the implant surgery is a success and complications do not develop.
“Fortunately, there are certain post-surgery home care techniques the patient can implement to make the recovery process as effortless as possible.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What happens during the implant placement surgery?
Q. What should a patient do after dental implant surgery?
Q. What are the risks of dental implant surgery?
Q. What happens during the initial consultation?
Q. How should someone prepare for dental implant surgery?
People Also Ask
Q. Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
Q. How can I prepare for my first implant procedure?
Q. What is the importance of follow-up appointments after implant treatment?
Q. What do I do if my implant feels loose?
Risks Associated with Dental Implant Surgery
The success rate for dental implant surgery is high, and complications are rare and typically not a serious concern with prompt dental care. Primary complications include nerve damage or injury to an adjacent tooth. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, oral surgical procedures raise the risk of local or systemic infection. However, we will take every precaution to help the patient avoid these complications. We will provide detailed instructions on how to recover, which may include good oral hygiene and possible medication to prevent infection.
The failure rate of dental implant surgery is low—only 5-10%. Bone loss is a leading cause, but something that can be remedied. It is not uncommon for those undergoing dental implant surgery to need bone grafting to prepare the jaw. This adds several months to the process, but greatly increases the chance of success.
“We will provide detailed instructions on how to recover, which may include good oral hygiene and possible medication to prevent infection.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What can I use for pain management after dental implant surgery?
A. The dentist will likely recommend Tylenol® or non-steroidal anti-inflammatories such as Advil®, Motrin®, or Aleve® to alleviate pain. You need to use any prescribed medication according to the dentist's instructions. Ensure you eat or drink something before taking any pain meds, so you do not feel nauseated.
Q. What can I eat after the surgery?
A. It is advisable to stick to soft and easy-to-chew foods. Good examples include yogurt, ice cream, smoothies, steam vegetables, and warm soup. Ensure you avoid tough or sharp-edge foods such as steak, tortilla chips, and pretzels.
Q. How long before I get back to normal after my dental implant surgery?
A. Most patients get back to normal within a week after the implant surgery. The first few days may be slightly uncomfortable, but your condition will improve over time. Follow aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Q. Can I get a new tooth immediately?
A. The dentist will be able to provide an estimate of the treatment timeline after the initial evaluation. The dentist may provide qualifying patients with a temporary dental prosthesis to wear during the osseointegration process. However, the dentist will only place permanent dental restoration after the bone heals fully.
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Dental Implant Terminology
Call Us Today
Get in touch with our team today at 843-588-5115. We respond to all who are interested in our services promptly. On your first visit, we will answer your questions, provide information about the process, and help you make an informed decision about dental implant surgery.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2025
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2025
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We are committed to providing quality service to residents located In the Charleston, SC area. Our website has additional information about the following topics: Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist, Emergency Dentist, Kid-Friendly Dentist, Teeth Whitening, Dental Crowns, Dental Fillings, Gum Disease Treatment, Implant Crowns and Dental Implants.
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