The dental implant procedure is one of the most reliable ways to replace missing teeth. Patients in Springfield, IL often ask about the dental implant process, how long it takes, and what recovery feels like. Understanding each step can reduce anxiety and help patients feel confident about moving forward with treatment.
At Baines Dental Wellness, we specialize in family-focused, wellness-driven care. Our advanced treatments, including Dental Implants in Springfield, IL, not only restore your smile but also protect your oral health for years to come. In this guide, we’ll walk through each stage, from consultation to final crown, to see how predictable and safe this procedure can be.
Consultation and Treatment Planning in Springfield, IL
The first step in the dental implant procedure is a detailed consultation and personalized plan. Patients meet with our team for imaging tests, including X-rays and CBCT scans. These scans provide precise views of the jawbone and soft tissues, allowing us to determine whether an implant can be placed right away or if additional steps are needed.
Treatment plans vary because every patient is unique. For example, molar teeth implants often require more bone support than front dental implants. This is why we review the different types of dental implants available. Some patients may only need a single tooth implant, while others benefit from multiple implants or a full-arch restoration.
Creating this plan provides reassurance that surgery will be efficient and tailored to your oral health needs. Our goal is always to give Springfield patients predictable results and long-term comfort.
Learn more about full-mouth restorations on our Restorative Dentistry page.
Tooth Extraction Before Implants in Springfield, IL
In many cases, damaged or infected teeth must be removed before an implant can be placed. Tooth extraction is common in implant dentistry, and our Springfield office provides sedation options for patients with dental anxiety. After an extraction, the site is allowed to heal before the implant post is placed.
Sometimes, a dental bone graft is required. A bone graft for tooth implants helps strengthen the jawbone, creating a stable foundation for the implant. This is especially important when a patient has had bone loss due to gum disease or years of missing teeth. Healing after extraction and grafting can take several weeks, but it is a key step in achieving long-term success.
Our team makes the process as smooth as possible with advanced techniques that minimize discomfort.
Read about preventive services and gentle tooth extractions on our General Dentistry page.
Placing the Dental Implant Post in Springfield, IL
Once the mouth is prepared, the next step is dental implant surgery. During this procedure, a titanium implant post is placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia or sedation. The post acts like a natural tooth root, providing stability for the crown or bridge that will later be attached.
The procedure is performed with precision using advanced technology. Incisions are made in the gum, the post is carefully positioned, and the area is closed with sutures. For cosmetic areas, such as front dental implants, placement requires extra care to achieve natural-looking results.
This step is one of the most predictable in modern dentistry. With gentle methods and effective anesthesia, patients in Springfield usually experience minimal discomfort and return home the same day.
How long does dental implant surgery take in Springfield, IL?
Most dental implant surgeries take one to two hours per tooth implant. The time varies depending on the number of implants placed and whether bone grafting is involved. With sedation, patients remain comfortable, and many are surprised at how quick the process feels. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, implants have a success rate of up to 95%, making this one of the most reliable restorative procedures.
Healing and Osseointegration Timeline in Springfield, IL
After the implant post is placed, healing begins. The process, known as osseointegration, takes three to six months. During this time, bone fuses with the implant, creating a strong and lasting foundation. This step is what makes dental implants more reliable than other tooth replacement options.
Patients who need full mouth dental implants or complete mouth dental implants often require more time for full healing. Factors such as overall health, smoking, and bone quality can affect the timeline. Our Springfield team monitors healing closely through follow-up visits.
Dental implants also protect whole-body wellness by preventing bone loss. Missing teeth can cause jawbone deterioration, as explained by the American Dental Association. When bone shrinks, facial shape changes and surrounding teeth shift. Implants maintain alignment and preserve both oral and facial health.
What does osseointegration feel like?
Most patients describe osseointegration as more of a pressure sensation than pain. The process itself is gradual and happens as the implant naturally bonds with the jawbone. Because this fusion occurs at the cellular level, patients do not feel the bone attaching. The only time discomfort is usually noticed is in the first few days after surgery, when the body is adjusting to the new implant.
During that early healing period, mild soreness or swelling around the implant site is common. This discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter medication or short-term prescriptions provided by your dentist. As the gum tissue heals and the implant stabilizes, patients often forget the implant is even there. In Owings Mills, many patients report that after the first week, they feel normal and are surprised at how comfortable the process becomes while osseointegration continues in the background.
Attaching the Abutment and Final Crown in Springfield, IL
The final stages of the dental implant process involve connecting an abutment and placing the crown. The abutment is a small connector piece that links the implant to the crown. It is exposed above the gum line and provides stability for the replacement tooth.
Patients often refer to the crown as a “fake tooth.” While it functions like one, the material is designed to look completely natural. At Baines Dental Wellness, we provide different fake teeth options, including individual crowns, implant bridges, and implant-supported dentures.
Most dental implants are made from titanium, a material that is durable, lightweight, and biocompatible. Once the crown is attached, the implant blends seamlessly with the natural smile.
FAQs About the Implant Procedure in Springfield, IL
Is implant surgery painful?
Dental implant surgery is performed with local anesthesia and sedation, so patients rarely feel pain during the procedure. Afterward, mild soreness may occur, but it is usually controlled with over-the-counter medication. According to the National Institutes of Health, sedation and anesthesia options are safe when administered by trained professionals.
How many visits are needed?
The dental implant process usually requires three to four visits. These include the consultation, surgery, follow-up appointments during healing, and placement of the final crown. In more complex cases, additional visits may be needed, but most Springfield patients follow this typical sequence.
Can all implants be placed in one day?
Some patients qualify for same day dental implants near me, but this depends on their bone quality and health. Immediate load implants can provide temporary teeth the same day as surgery, but most cases require healing before permanent crowns are placed. This approach balances safety and long-term success.
How do implants compare to dentures?
Traditional dentures rest on the gums, while implant dentures or denture implants are supported by posts anchored in the jaw. This provides better stability, prevents slipping, and improves chewing. Patients in Springfield often prefer implant-supported options for their comfort and reliability.
Start Your Implant Journey in Springfield, IL Today
The best way to begin is by scheduling a consultation with a local implant dentist. At Baines Dental Wellness, we provide advanced implant treatments with a focus on family care and whole-body wellness. If you are searching for the best dental implants near me or need a trusted dental implant specialist near me, our team is here to help.
Patients across Springfield, IL, trust us for safe, predictable, and natural-looking results. Restoring your smile with dental implants can improve your health, confidence, and quality of life. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward lasting oral wellness.
