The Dental Implants Procedure in Petoskey, MI

Safe Dental Implant Surgery with Dr. Klym

Undergoing a surgical procedure can feel daunting, but Dr. Klym provides safe and comfortable dental implant surgery for those needing to replace one or multiple missing teeth.

If you’re ready to explore whether dental implants are right for you, contact Brian Klym, DDS in Petoskey today at (231) 347-2188 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Klym is one of the best dentists in Petoskey and will ensure that your smile goals are achieved.

How Dental Implant Procedures Work

Initial Consultation:
The first step in a dental implant placement is scheduling an initial consultation with Dr. Klym. During this appointment, he will examine your mouth and take digital X-rays to assess whether you are a good candidate for treatment. He’ll also discuss your medical history and any medications you are taking to ensure that implant surgery is safe for you.
Supplemental Procedures:
Some patients may require additional procedures before moving forward with dental implants, like a bone graft. Common supplemental procedures include bone grafting and soft tissue grafting, particularly for those with low jawbone density or underlying oral health issues such as gum disease. Its best to wait until the gums heal to go forward with receiving replacement teeth from an oral and maxillofacial surgeon or dental specialist.

These procedures can be performed before or during the implant process, depending on your needs and the complexity of your case. Dr. Klym will evaluate your specific situation and determine if any additional steps are necessary to ensure the success of your dental implant procedure.

In certain cases, dental implants may not be the best option. Our dental specialists may suggest alternative restorative treatments, such as removable dentures or a dental bridge.

Implant Surgery:
The implant surgery is typically an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia, although some patients may opt for IV sedation for added comfort. Sedation options are discussed during the initial consultation. During the procedure, Dr. Klym or your oral surgeon will make a small incision in the gums and carefully place the implant post into the jawbone. The post will then be left to heal and integrate with the bone over the following months.

Depending on your dentist’s techniques, he may utilize 3D scanning technology or laser technology during the surgery.

Recovery Period:
Following surgery, the post will undergo osseointegration, a natural process where the bone around the implant fuses with the jawbone. This step is crucial for the implant’s stability and security, taking several months to complete.

While dental implant healing times vary for each patient, you can typically return to your routine after a few days. It’s essential to adhere to eat soft foods and follow any post-operative instructions. You may experience discomfort or swelling for a few days to a week.

Each patient heals differently, so the overall dental implant timeline will vary.

Final Restoration Placement:
Once the post has fully integrated with the jawbone, you’ll return to our Petoskey dental office for your final restoration placement appointment. Your custom restoration—whether it’s a dental crown, bridge, or supported denture—will be ready for placement. The final restoration will be securely attached to the post, giving you a natural-looking tooth that functions like your original. You’ll leave the office with a beautiful new smile!

After Your Dental Implant Surgery

Post-surgery, it’s essential to maintain excellent oral hygiene to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of complications. Here are some tips for after your oral surgery:

Follow Dr. Klym’s instructions
Manage pain and swelling with cold compresses and over-the-counter pain medications
Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol
Stick to a soft food diet, avoiding hard, crunchy, or spicy foods
Practice good oral hygiene
Attend all follow-up appointments

To learn more about post-operative dental implant care, Dr. Klym has created a detailed guide to assist with your recovery. You can also reach out to our practice at (231) 347-2188 for any questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I need to have any teeth removed before getting an implant?

How long does the entire dental implant process take?

Is the dental implant procedure painful?

Will I need to have any teeth removed before getting an implant?

Not necessarily. In some cases, dental implants can be placed directly into the jawbone without extracting any existing teeth. However, if there aren’t enough healthy teeth or if the jawbone is too thin or weak, tooth extraction may be required before the implant surgery.

How long does the entire dental implant process take?

On average, the dental implant process takes about four to six months. While the implant surgery only lasts a few hours, the post requires time to heal and integrate with the jawbone before the final restoration—typically a dental crown or bridge—is placed. Osseointegration may take anywhere from three to six months and is essential for the implant’s stability.

Is the dental implant procedure painful?

Most patients report little to no pain during the procedure. A local anesthetic is used to numb the area, and your dentist may offer additional sedation options based on your needs. After the procedure, patients usually manage any discomfort or swelling with over-the-counter medications.

Start Your Smile Journey With Dental Implants

Do you still have questions about the dental implant procedure or artificial teeth? Contact our Petoskey dentist, Dr. Klym, today. With years of experience in implant dentistry for missing tooth replacement, he’ll address any questions and help you determine if dental implants are the right choice for you.

Call our dental office at (231) 347-2188 to schedule your appointment.