Have you ever wondered what really happens during dental implant surgery? For many of our patients in Lansdowne, Leesburg, and Ashburn, the idea of a “screw” in the jaw sounds intimidating – yet the procedure is more comfortable, predictable, and life-changing than most people imagine. In this post we’ll walk you through the entire surgical process, answer common questions, and share three first-hand patient stories so you can feel confident about saying yes to your new smile.
Why Choose Implants Over Other Options?
- Longevity – Implants often last decades when cared for properly.
- Bone protection – A titanium root stimulates the jawbone and prevents the sunken “denture look.”
- Natural feel – Because the crown is anchored to your jaw—not another tooth—it looks, feels, and functions like the real thing.
(For a broader comparison of bridges, dentures, and implants, see our earlier post [http:///three-tooth-replacement-options/]Three Tooth Replacement Options.)
Are You a Candidate for dental implants?
You’re likely a good fit if you:
- Have one or more missing teeth
- Enjoy generally good oral and overall health
- Possess adequate bone density (or are willing to have a graft)
- Do not smoke, or are committed to quitting during healing
A 3-D CBCT scan during your consultation helps us measure bone and map out the exact placement angle for each implant.
The Day of Surgery: What to Expect
1. Warm Welcome & Local Anesthesia
Our team greets you, reviews consent forms and applies powerful local anesthetic to completely numb the area. Many patients also choose nitrous oxide or light oral sedation for extra peace of mind. If you’re still feeling anxious, we can provide nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) or light oral sedation – though most patients find they’re comfortable without it.
2. Tooth Removal (If Necessary)
If the failing tooth is still present, we perform a gentle extraction and thoroughly debride the socket to remove infection or granulation tissue.
3. Precise Implant Placement
Using a digitally designed surgical guide, we create a tiny channel in the bone and insert the titanium implant. Think of it like placing a wall anchor—quick and controlled.
4. Healing Cap & Stitches
A small healing abutment is secured to keep soft tissue from growing over the implant. We place a couple of dissolvable sutures; you’ll hardly notice them. A small healing cap is secured to keep soft tissue from growing over the implant. In many cases no stitches are needed; if we do place them, they’re usually dissolvable and barely noticeable.
5. Back Home in About an Hour
Most single-implant surgeries are finished in 45–60 minutes, and you’ll walk out able to drive yourself home (unless you opted for deeper sedation).
Healing & Osseointegration (8–12 Weeks)
During the next several weeks the magic happens: bone cells weave tightly around the implant surface in a process called osseointegration. You might experience mild swelling for 24–48 hours, easily managed with ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers. A soft-food diet—think scrambled eggs, yogurt, and smoothies—keeps the implant undisturbed.
Stage Two: Abutment & Final Crown
Stage Two: Connector Post & Final Crown
- Uncovering the implant – We remove the healing cap and attach a custom abutment. Uncovering the implant – We remove the healing cap and attach a custom connector post (sometimes called a “prosthetic post”) that will hold your crown securely.
- Digital impression – An intraoral scanner captures a 3-D model of your bite, eliminating the need for messy putty molds.
- Crown placement – About two weeks later your porcelain or zirconia crown is torqued onto the abutment. You can eat steak the same night!
Common Concerns – Answered
- Will it hurt? Patients say they feel pressure more than pain. Most return to work the next day with only ibuprofen.
- How long will I be without a tooth? We can place a same-day temporary in most visible areas, so you never walk around with a gap.
- What’s the success rate? National studies show 95-98 % success over 10 years, and our own outcomes are even higher.
- Is it safe if I’m nervous about drilling? Guided surgery shortens chair time and protects nerves and sinuses.
Real Patient Testimonials
“I am with the scheduling, the timing, and process of the implant surgery. Very pleased with how Dr. Julie explained everything and the overall surgery itself.” – M.M.
“I recently got an implant from Dental Innovations. I was so relieved by how pain-free it was. A couple of aspirin the next day, that frankly, I could have done without, if necessary. The whole experience was remarkably simple.” – Maureen F.
See Also:
Conclusion
Dental implant surgery is predictable, comfortable, and truly transformative. By understanding each step – from anesthesia to final crown – you can approach the procedure with confidence instead of fear. If you have additional questions, our team is always a phone call or text away.
About Dental Innovations of Virginia
Dr. Joon Coe, Dr. Julie Coe, and the rest of the team are dedicated to helping Northern Virginia residents enjoy a lifetime of healthy smiles. Our office is conveniently located at 19490 Sandridge Way, Suite 160, Lansdowne, VA 20176 . We proudly serve Lansdowne, Leesburg, Ashburn, and the surrounding Loudoun County communities through in-office care, DIVA Mobile clinic, and DIVA Home Visit services.
Ready to take the next step? Call 703-454-5656 or text us 24/7 to schedule your implant consultation today.