If you’re preparing for dental implant surgery, it’s natural to feel a mix of anticipation and nervousness. Knowing exactly what to expect on the day of your tooth implant procedure can help ease anxiety and ensure you’re fully prepared for a smooth experience. At Dental Implants Tasmania, we believe that informed patients feel more confident and comfortable every step of the way.
In this guide, we walk you through everything you can expect on the day of your oral implant insertion, from arrival at the clinic to post-procedure recovery.
What Are Dental Implants?
Before diving into the procedure itself, let’s briefly revisit what dental implants are.
A dental implant, also known as an endosseous implant, is a small titanium post that acts as an artificial tooth root. It’s surgically placed into the jawbone beneath the gums, where it fuses with the bone through a process called osseointegration. This creates a stable foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture.
Implants are a long-term solution for missing teeth and are designed to look, feel, and function like your natural teeth.
Pre-Surgery Preparation
In most cases, you’ll already have completed a comprehensive consultation and digital imaging before the day of the procedure. At Dental Implants Tasmania, we use advanced diagnostic tools to plan your surgery with precision, ensuring optimal placement and long-term success.
Here’s how you can prepare the day before and the morning of your procedure:
- Follow fasting instructions: If you’re receiving sedation or general anaesthesia, your clinician will advise when to stop eating and drinking.
- Wear comfortable clothing: Choose loose, casual attire and avoid makeup or jewellery.
- Arrange transport: If sedation is involved, someone must drive you home afterward.
Arrival at the Clinic
When you arrive at our clinic, you’ll be greeted by our friendly team and guided through a quick check-in process. We’ll go over your consent forms, verify your medical history, and answer any last-minute questions.
If sedation is part of your treatment, you’ll be prepared accordingly. This may involve administering local anaesthetic, intravenous sedation, or other pain control measures based on your tailored treatment plan.
The Procedure: Step-by-Step
1. Anaesthesia and Comfort
Your comfort is our priority. After numbing the area with a local anaesthetic, or administering sedation, you’ll be completely relaxed and pain-free before surgery begins.
2. Preparing the Implant Site
Once the area is numb, your dentist will make a small incision in your gum to expose the jawbone. A space is carefully created in the bone using specialised instruments to accommodate the implant.
3. Placing the Dental Implant
The tooth implant (a titanium post) is then inserted into the jawbone. This step is often quicker and more straightforward than patients anticipate.
Once the implant is securely in place, the site is closed with sutures, and in some cases, a healing cap is placed over the implant.
4. Recovery Room
After the surgery, you’ll rest comfortably in a recovery area while the effects of sedation or anaesthetic wear off. Our team will provide post-operative instructions, pain management advice, and a contact number in case you have questions after returning home.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
The duration of oral implant surgery varies depending on the number of implants and whether additional procedures (like bone grafting) are performed. However, a single implant placement typically takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour.
What Will You Feel During and After?
During the surgery, thanks to anaesthesia or sedation, you won’t feel any pain. Some pressure or vibrations may be noticeable, but discomfort is minimal.
After the procedure, it’s common to experience:
- Mild swelling or bruising
- Soreness at the implant site
- Slight bleeding for a few hours
These symptoms are temporary and manageable with the prescribed medications and cold compresses.
Aftercare Instructions
Your healing journey is just as important as the surgery itself. Here’s what we typically recommend:
- Rest for the first 24–48 hours and avoid strenuous activity.
- Use ice packs on the cheek to reduce swelling.
- Stick to soft foods like soups, yoghurt, and mashed potatoes for the first few days.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol during the healing period.
- Take medications as directed to control pain and prevent infection.
- Attend follow-up appointments so we can monitor your healing progress.
Osseointegration (bone integration) takes a few months, during which the implant bonds with the jawbone. Once healed, the final crown or prosthesis will be attached, completing your smile transformation.
When Should You Contact Us?
While complications are rare, it’s important to reach out if you experience any of the following:
- Excessive swelling or bleeding
- Fever or chills
- Severe pain that isn’t relieved by medication
- Pus or unusual discharge
At Dental Implants Tasmania, your health and safety come first. We’re only a phone call away.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what happens on the day of dental implant insertion can make all the difference in how you approach your procedure. With modern techniques, highly experienced professionals, and advanced technology, implant surgery is a routine, low-risk treatment that can dramatically improve your oral health and quality of life.
Whether you’re receiving a single endosseous implant or undergoing a full-mouth restoration, you’re in good hands at Dental Implants Tasmania. Our team is here to guide you at every step, from consultation to long-term care.
Have questions about dental implants?
Our friendly team is here to help.
📞 Call us today and speak to an expert: [(03) 6388 1558]
Dental Implant Surgery FAQ
1. Is dental implant surgery painful?
No, dental implant surgery is typically not painful. Local anaesthesia or sedation is used to numb the area completely, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Afterward, some discomfort is normal, but it’s manageable with over-the-counter or prescribed medications.
2. How long does a tooth implant procedure take?
A single tooth implant procedure generally takes 30 minutes to 1 hour. The time may vary depending on how many implants are being placed and whether additional procedures (like bone grafting) are needed.
3. What should I eat after implant surgery?
Stick to soft foods for the first few days. Options include mashed potatoes, soups, yoghurt, scrambled eggs, smoothies (without straws), and soft pasta. Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or hard foods that may irritate the surgical site.
4. How long does it take to heal after a dental implant?
Initial healing takes about 7–10 days, but full integration of the oral implant with your jawbone (osseointegration) typically takes 3 to 6 months. After this, the final crown or bridge is placed.
5. Can I go back to work after implant surgery?
Most patients take 1–2 days off to rest and recover. If your job is not physically demanding, you may return to work the next day, especially if you feel comfortable and aren’t heavily sedated.
6. Are dental implants safe?
Yes. Dental implants are a safe, well-established treatment supported by decades of clinical research. At Dental Implants Tasmania, we use advanced techniques and materials to ensure the highest level of safety and success.
7. Will I need a bone graft?
Not always. Bone grafting is only needed if your jawbone is too thin or soft to support the implant. This is assessed during your initial consultation using digital imaging and scans.
8. How do I care for my implants after surgery?
Care includes:
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Gently rinsing with salt water or prescribed mouthwash
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Soft brushing around the area
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Avoiding smoking and alcohol
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Following all post-op instructions from your dental surgeon
9. How long do dental implants last?
With proper care, endosseous implants can last 15 years or more, and in many cases, a lifetime. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups is key.
10. What’s the success rate of dental implants?
Dental implants have a success rate of 95–98%, making them one of the most reliable and effective tooth replacement options available today.
