After  Dental Implant Procedure FAQ

What can I use for teeth while the implants heal?

What are the potential problems after dental implant surgery?

Although it is natural to be concerned about the pain that may be caused by these procedures, most patients do not experience severe or significant post-operative pain. 

• Pain: Most patients experience minimal discomfort; pain medications will be prescribed as needed.

• Infection: Occasionally, infections may occur post-surgery, requiring additional antibiotics. If you notice excessive pain, bleeding, or pus at the implant site, call us right away. 

• Adjacent Teeth: Rarely, nearby teeth might be affected during implant placement.

• Nerve Impact: There’s a slight risk of nerve irritation in the lower jaw, leading to temporary or, in rare cases, permanent numbness or tingling in the lip, chin, or tongue. You may experience numbness for up to a few days after surgery. 

How long will the implants last?

Implants usually last a long time. When patients are missing all of their teeth, long-term studies (more than 30 years) show an 80 to 90 percent success rate.

For patients missing one or several teeth, recent studies show a success rate of greater than 95 percent, which compares favorably with other areas in the body that receive implant replacement (such as hips or knees).

However, if one of your dental implants either doesn’t heal properly or loosens after a period of time, you may need to have it removed. After the site heals (or on occasion at the time of removal), another implant usually can be placed.

When are the replacement teeth attached to the implant?

Attaching Your Replacement Teeth

• Once healing is complete and your jawbone has fused with the implants, your replacement teeth can be attached.
• In some cases, this can begin immediately or shortly after surgery, depending on individual healing and treatment needs.
• Your dentist will determine the ideal timing and treatment sequence based on your situation.

The Restoration Process

• Treatment begins with detailed impressions and bite records to create accurate models of your mouth.
• These are used to fabricate the abutments (connectors) and your new teeth.
• Abutments may be standard or custom-made from materials like ceramic or gold, which can affect cost and timeline.
• Each case is unique—some may require as few as three appointments, others more, especially for removable dentures.

Timeline & Expectations

• Total treatment time can range from 1 to 12 months after implant placement.
• Patients receiving removable dentures may need up to five appointments for fittings, adjustments, and placement of support components like bars or clips.
• Temporary teeth are provided during this period to ensure comfort and function.
• Costs and timelines vary; your dentist will provide a personalized estimate and schedule once healing is assessed.

How do I clean my new teeth?

As with natural teeth, it is important that you clean implant-supported restorations regularly with toothbrushes, floss, and any other recommended aids.

You should also visit your dentist several times each year for hygiene and maintenance. As with regular dentures and other tooth replacements, your implants and their associated components are subject to wear and tear and eventually will need repair, including clip replacement, relines, screw tightening, and other adjustments.

Will one doctor do everything?

Yes! At Northampton Implant and Family Dentistry, Dr. Kim can provide any service you may need before, during, and after your implant procedure. This means he can perform:

• Any necessary extractions before the implant surgery
• Modeling and planning your implant attachment device/crowns/dentures
• The implant placement surgery
• Creating, fitting, and adjusting the crowns for your implants
• Any repairs or adjustments you might need after your crowns/dentures are placed and healed. 

How much does dental implant treatment cost?

Implants can cost as little at $699 per implant all the way up to $60,000+ for an entire full mouth implant procedure. 

The cost of your implant procedure is defined by many different factors, including:

Number of Implants Needed

• A single implant costs less than multiple implants.
• Full-arch solutions (like All-on-4) involve more planning, components, and lab work.

Type of Restoration

• Crown, bridge, or full denture
• Material type (porcelain, zirconia, acrylic) also impacts pricing.

Need for Additional Procedures

• Bone grafting, sinus lifts, or tooth extractions add to overall cost.
• These are often necessary if jawbone loss is present.

Implant Material & Brand

• Titanium is standard, but zirconia and high-end implant brands may cost more.

Diagnostic Imaging & Planning

• Digital X-rays, 3D CBCT scans, and surgical guides improve precision—but add to the fee.

Sedation or Anesthesia

• Local anesthesia is usually included.
• IV sedation or general anesthesia may be an extra cost, depending on patient preference or complexity.

Before treatment begins, every effort will be made to give you an accurate estimate of all the expenses involved in placing the implants and making your replacement teeth.

In many cases, there is an initial charge for the diagnostic work-up, including study models, x-rays, and the fabrication of a surgical template to ensure the best possible result.

In addition, you will be charged for the abutment or support post(s), plus the crown, dentures, or anything else that will be placed over the implants, including temporary restorations. Periodic maintenance such as hygiene visits, tissue conditioners, denture relines, and other repairs will also incur additional charges.

When different doctors are involved in your treatment, you will be charged separately for their services. We will try to assist you in estimating what your actual payments will be after we evaluate your insurance coverage or other third-party payments.

Also, you should consider your personal financial investment in each treatment option as some insurance companies provide limited or no coverage.

Each patient is unique, and it is not possible for us to discuss every option and every contingency for treatment outcome. This website is intended to help you understand the general treatment options available to you. If your specific treatment options are not clear, please contact us. We will be happy to answer any questions you have about your dental care.