First, dental implants are placed within your jaw bone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums, gradually bonding with the jaw bone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, Dr. Sampier, Dr. Nyhuis or Dr. Childress-Grubb designs the final bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.

After the dental implant has bonded to the jaw bone by an implant specialist (periodontist or oral surgeon), the second phase begins. The surgeon will uncover the implants and attach a small healing collar. We can then start making your new teeth. An impression must be taken at our office. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The replacement teeth are then made over the posts or attachments.