If you’re missing a tooth, you’ve probably heard the term “dental implant” thrown around. Maybe a friend mentioned they got one. Maybe you’ve seen the ads. But if you’re like most people, you don’t actually know what happens during the procedure itself.
That’s completely normal. And it’s one of the biggest reasons patients put off getting implants. The unknown feels scary. So let’s walk through it together, step by step, in plain English, with no scary stories.
Step 1: The Consultation
This is where everything starts. You’ll come see Dr. Hagigi at our Shady Grove Road office, and he’ll take a close look at your mouth. He’ll also take special x-rays that show the bone beneath your gums.
Why does that matter? Because implants need a solid foundation. The x-rays tell Dr. Hagigi how much bone you have and exactly where to place the implant. If you need a little extra bone support, he’ll talk you through that too. No surprises. Just honest information.
Step 2: The Implant Placement
This is the procedure itself. And it’s usually easier than getting a tooth pulled.
You’ll get numbed up just like you would for a filling. Dr. Hagigi makes a small opening in your gum, then gently places the titanium post into your jawbone. That post acts like an artificial tooth root.
The whole thing takes about an hour or so for a single implant. You won’t feel pain, just some pressure and maybe some strange sounds. That’s totally normal.
Step 3: The Healing Period
Now comes the waiting game. After Dr. Hagigi places the implant, it needs time to fuse with your bone. This process is called osseointegration, a fancy word that just means “your bone grows around the implant and holds it tight.”
This takes a few months. You’ll have a temporary tooth or a small space while that happens. But you’re not just sitting around. You can eat, talk, and go about your life normally. Just stick to softer foods for the first week or so while things settle down.
Step 4: The Abutment
Once Dr. Hagigi confirms your implant has fully fused, you’ll come back for the next step. He’ll re-open your gum (just a tiny bit) and attach a small connector piece called an abutment onto the implant.
Think of the abutment like a little post that sticks up above your gumline. It’s the piece that will hold your new tooth in place. This is a quick visit, usually thirty minutes or less.
Step 5: The Crown
Dr. Hagigi takes an impression of your mouth so a lab can custom-make your final tooth. They match the color, shape, and size to blend perfectly with your surrounding teeth.
A couple weeks later, you’ll come back. Dr. Hagigi screws or cements your new crown onto the abutment. And that’s it. You’ve got a new tooth that looks, feels, and functions just like the real thing.
How Long Does It All Take?
The whole process, from consultation to final crown, usually takes three to six months. Most of that time is just waiting for your bone to heal. The actual time you spend in the chair is relatively short.
Yes, it’s a commitment. But patients who’ve done it will tell you it’s worth every month. You could get a permanent solution that can last decades with good care. Compared to dentures that slip or bridges that need replacing, implants are the closest thing to having your natural teeth back.
Is It Right for You?
Not everyone is a candidate for implants. But more people are than you’d think. The only way to know is to have Dr. Hagigi take a look.
He’ll give you the straight story. If implants are a good fit, he’ll walk you through every single step along the way. If they’re not, he’ll tell you that too and recommend alternatives that work better for your situation.
Either way, you won’t be left guessing.
Ready to Learn More?
If you’ve been living with a missing tooth and you’re curious about implants, give us a call at 301-869-2600 or request an appointment online. Dr. Hagigi would love to meet you, answer your questions, and help you figure out what’s right for your smile.
Because you deserve to eat, laugh, and smile without thinking about that gap.
