What to expect as a patient
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 Watch highlights as ClearChoice patient Carlene goes through her treatment plan in just one day.
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Prosthodontic exam
The prosthodontic examination is performed by an expert trained in dental implants called a Prosthodontist. You will receive a complete dental examination and go through your dental and medical history. Dental impressions are made so the lab may begin working on your replacement teeth. You may even pick the color and shape of your teeth.
Day of procedure
On the day of the procedure, you should arrive early in the morning. You will be greeted by a friendly staff and your patient education consultant who will escort you to a recovery room where you safely may leave personal belongings. The room also is a comfortable waiting area for an accompanying friend or family member. Each recovery room offers big, over-stuffed chairs, a TV with a DVD player, and a refrigerator stocked with soothing drinks and beverages.
From the recovery room, you will be escorted to surgery where the Oral Surgeon and his assistants will be waiting. You will be placed under conscious sedation to minimize pain and discomfort. ClearChoice doctors administer the same type of sedation often used in procedures such as plastic and reconstructive surgery, minor surgery, and bone fracture repair.
Once you are sedated, the surgeon will remove any teeth required by your treatment plan and then place the implants. The Prosthodontist will ensure that the implants are correctly placed and make necessary adjustments. Usually this process takes about two to four hours.
When surgery is completed, you will be returned to the recovery room where you will have time to recuperate from the sedation. While in recovery, the On-site Dental Implant Lab will finish crafting and polishing your replacement teeth. Most patients are in recovery for about five hours; you may spend the majority of the time sleeping.
After recovery, you will be taken to a clinical room where the Prosthodontist and his assistants will custom fit and finish your replacement teeth. This usually takes about 30 minutes. The result is always amazing! Don’t be surprised if you weep when you finally see your brand new smile!
Recovery
When you leave the Center after surgery you may feel minor pain that can be treated with over-the-counter pain medication. You may expect some degree of bruising and swelling in the gum and soft tissues. Read frequently asked questions about recovery >>
Living with dental implants
What will your life be like with dental implants? Better than before! Within moments of walking out the door, with your new implants you will begin to experience the joy of being confident with your teeth. You will find yourself beginning to project a renewed image of self-confidence and high personal esteem. When you feel better about yourself, it shows in your appearance!
Read frequently asked questions about maintenance & hygiene >>