Step-by-Step: The Dental Implant Process

A missing tooth can change more than your smile; it can impact daily comfort, speech, and confidence. Dental implants offer a reliable path forward. In this blog, we’ll break down the full process so you know exactly what to expect, when. Whether you’re considering your first implant or looking for clarity, you’re in the right place.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small, sturdy posts made of titanium. They are placed into the jaw where a natural tooth root once lived. Once healed, they support a crown that looks and feels like a natural tooth.

If you’re considering dental implants in Bronxville, NY, you’re choosing a solution designed to feel natural and last for years.

Here’s why they matter:

• They act like real roots, keeping your jawbone strong.

• They don’t rely on nearby teeth for support.

• They stay fixed, no slipping or clicking like dentures.

• With proper care, they can last for many years.
  

Why You Need Dental Implants

If you’re missing a tooth, it’s not just about looks. Here are a few problems that can come up:

• Jawbone begins to shrink

• Teeth next to the gap shift

• Trouble chewing or biting down

• Changes to facial shape over time
  

Getting implants helps stop these issues before they grow worse. They bring function and balance back to your mouth.

People often assume bridges or dentures are the only option. Those can work, but implants do more to keep the mouth stable and strong over time. If you’re unsure where to start, talk to a dentist near you to explore whether implants make sense in your case.

Initial Consultation and Planning

The journey starts with a visit to your dentist. This first appointment matters a lot. Here’s what usually happens:

• A full exam of your mouth

• Digital X-rays or 3D scans of your jaw

• Review of your medical history

• A discussion about your goals
  

Your dentist checks if your jaw has enough bone to support an implant. If the bone is very thin or soft, you might need a bone graft right before the implant can be placed.

This part may feel a little overwhelming. That’s normal. But take a breath, this is the moment when your plan starts coming together. The dentist will walk you through every option and what to expect. If you’re looking for a trusted provider, general dentistry in Bronxville offers experienced care that starts with thoughtful planning and ends with confident results.

Once everything checks out, you’ll get a clear timeline and treatment plan. That roadmap helps you know what’s next and what each step involves.

Some people get worried about the cost here. Ask questions. Your dentist can explain how your insurance works and what financing options are available if needed.

Implant Placement

This is the surgical step where the implant post goes into your jaw. It may sound intense, but it’s often easier than people expect. Many compare it to getting a deep filling or a wisdom tooth out.

Here’s what to expect:

• The dentist numbs the area completely.

• A small incision is made in the gum.

• The titanium post is settled into the bone.

• The gum is stitched closed.
  

You’ll go home the same day. Mild swelling or soreness for a few days is common, but over-the-counter medication usually handles it well. Most people are back to work or regular life within 24–48 hours.

Healing is key. Over the next few months, the implant joins with the bone in a process called osseointegration. It creates a stable, lasting base. Your dentist checks in during this time to make sure everything is healing properly.

Adding the Crown

Once healing is complete, you’re ready for the finishing touch, the crown. This part looks just like a natural tooth.

Here’s how it wraps up:

• Your dentist fixes a small connector called an abutment

• An impression is taken for your new tooth

• The crown is made to match your other teeth

• It’s attached to the abutment
  

And that’s it, your implant is done. You can consume the foods you love, speak clearly, and smile widely again.

This step feels like a milestone. After months of waiting, you can finally see the full result. Many patients say this is when their confidence returns in a big way.

If you’ve had missing teeth for a while, this moment can feel like getting a part of yourself back.

Final Thoughts

Dental implants offer more than just a solution; they bring back the freedom to eat, speak, and smile with ease. At Bronxville Dentistry: Michael Aviel DDS, we believe in restoring confidence through personalized care and proven results. Every smile starts with a conversation. Don’t wait to feel like yourself again. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward lasting comfort and renewed confidence.