The Journey to a Restored Smile: Understanding the Dental Implant Process

Bellissimo Dentistry & Implant Center • April 25, 2025

Dr. Alexander Matheson

D.M.D
Dentist / Owner
Dr. Matheson is an Arizona native and a proud Chandler High School alumni. After high school he graduated from the University of Arizona and then Oregon Health and Sciences University’s School of Dentistry where he received his Doctorate in Dental Medicine. His interest in dental implants during school led him to pursue an Advanced Education residency at the UCLA School of Dentistry where he spent an additional year learning from top mentors and honing his implant and cosmetic dentistry skills.

Dr. Samantha Holder

D.D.S
Dentist
Dr. Holder attended Illinois State University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Clinical Laboratory Science. She continued her education at the University of Illinois at Chicago, where she completed her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2006. While at UIC, she received the Gerald L. Wine scholarship for excellence in patient relationships.
Dr. Holder continues to show her commitment to patients by focusing only on them and spending the extra time to ensure that their comfort and dental needs are fulfilled. Each of her patients is treated like family! She is passionate about your comfort, convenience, and personally ensures you get the best results.

Have you started hiding your incomplete smile, concealing missing teeth? You're not alone. According to the CDC, tooth loss can cause low self-esteem, difficulty speaking, poor diet, and lowered quality of life.


Even one missing tooth can change your daily functionality. Instead of struggling with an incomplete smile, consider getting dental implants.


What's involved in the dental implant process, step by step, and what are the benefits of dental implants? Read on to find out!


What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are metal, screw-like posts that are surgically implanted into the jaw to replace a lost or damaged tooth. The implant functions as an anchor. It will hold a crown or bridge, ensuring stability while restoring your smile.


Dental implants are ideal for patients who:


  • Can't or don't want to wear dentures
  • Have one or more missing teeth
  • Have a healthy jawbone
  • Don't have health conditions that affect bone healing
  • Want to improve their speech
  • Can commit to the process
  • Have enough bone to secure the implant
  • Have healthy oral tissues


Surgically placing the implant ensures it doesn't shift when you speak or eat. Instead, it will become a permanent part of your smile by replacing the lost tooth. This stability and longevity can improve your quality of life and overall health.


According to the National Library of Medicine, the prevalence of dental implants in the US could soar to 23% by 2026. The procedure is gaining popularity since 90% of implants remain healthy and functional after 10 years.


Types of Dental Implants


There are two main types of dental implants: subperiosteal and endosteal. 


Endosteal ("in the bone") implants are more common. They resemble small screws and are made using body-safe materials like titanium. This ensures your body won't reject the implant.


An oral surgeon will surgically place the implant deep within your jawbone to ensure stability. A single implant can maintain one or multiple teeth.


Subperiosteal ("on the bone") implants are placed over the jawbone. They're ideal for patients who don't have a healthy jawbone, which is required for surgery. Instead of placing the implant in the bone, it's placed under the gums, on top of the bone.


Consult your dentist to determine whether subperiosteal or endosteal dental implants are right for you. They'll help you make an informed decision based on your goals and oral health. 


If you're missing multiple teeth, they may recommend all-on-four dental implants. 


Duration


The duration of dental implant surgery can vary based on your unique needs. Factors that may impact the timeline include:

  • If you need sinus augmentation or a bone graft
  • The type of implant needed
  • How many dental implants you need
  • How long it takes for you to heal


Before reviewing these dental implant surgery stages, talk to your dentist. They can give you a more accurate timeline based on your oral health and needs. On average, the process can take between three and six months, though some patients need as long as nine months to a year.


Benefits of Dental Implants


Potential benefits of dental implants include:

  • Restored cosmetic appearance
  • Restored ability to chew
  • Improved quality of life
  • Keeps adjacent teeth stable
  • Preserved gum and bone health
  • Keeps the jawbone from shrinking due to bone loss


They're also durable. According to Healthline, complete dentures last an average of 10.1 years, dental bridges need to be replaced every 5 to 15 years, and about 94% of dental implants last 15 years.


Dental Implant Process Step by Step


Understanding the dental implant surgery stages will help you manage your expectations. Here's what to expect from the process.


Initial Consultation


Schedule a consultation appointment with an implant dentist to determine if you're an ideal candidate for dental implant surgery. During this appointment, your dentist will review your medical and dental history. They'll complete a visual exam to determine if your jawbone is healthy enough to sustain an implant.


After the visual exam, your dentist may request X-rays to assess your bone density. If the dentist determines your jawbone is too thin or soft, they may recommend a bone graft first. However, you may be ineligible for surgery if:


  • You're actively undergoing cancer treatment
  • You have a metabolic bone disease
  • You're a heavy smoker
  • You suffer from a blood clotting disorder
  • You have uncontrolled diabetes


Once your dentist determines you're an ideal candidate for the procedure, they'll develop a personalized treatment plan. Review the dental implant process step by step so you can have a detailed understanding of what the surgery entails beforehand.


Implant Placement


Talk to your oral surgeon to determine if you need a ride home after the procedure. Dental implant surgery is an outpatient procedure performed under either:

  • IV sedation
  • General anesthesia
  • Local anesthesia


To place an endosteal implant, the oral surgeon will cut into your gums to expose the jawbone underneath. They'll drill a hole into the jawbone to insert the implant post.


This process may take one to two hours. After this surgery, you may need three months to heal.


Healing and Osseointegration


"Combining with the bone," or osseointegration, takes two to six months. This healing process allows new bone to grow naturally around your dental implant, ensuring it stays stable among your natural teeth.


You may need to eat soft foods while the area heals. Follow your dentist's recovery instructions to reduce the risk of complications. 


Placing the Abutment


After the surgical site heals, your dentist will place an abutment. This extender connects the dental implant to an artificial root.


Your dentist will make an impression of your teeth to create a fixed or removable replacement. For a fixed tooth, the dentist will cement or screw the crown into place atop the abutment.


After this procedure, let your dentist know if you experience:

  • Severe pain
  • Swelling
  • Bleeding
  • An uneven or uncomfortable bite
  • Lasting discomfort


Your new, artificial tooth should feel and function like a natural tooth. Talk to your dentist for care tips to ensure its longevity. 

Discuss the Dental Implant Surgery Stages


Don't let a missing tooth affect your smile or quality of life. Instead, talk to your dentist about the dental implant process step by step. With treatment, you can restore your smile for years to come!


At Bellissimo Dentistry, we're committed to providing exceptional care with a personalized touch. Trust our technology-driven dental care and personalized treatments. Contact us now to schedule your appointment.

Why Chandler Families Are Choosing One Dentist for Everyone: The Benefits of Family Dentistry

By Bellissimo Dentistry & Implant Center • June 11, 2025
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one in 10 children aged 2 to 5 has at least one untreated cavity in their baby teeth. By ages 6 to 8, this increases to nearly one in five children. Finding a Chandler family dentistry practice could help reduce their risk of decay. With comprehensive dental care, you can protect their smiles, encourage proper oral hygiene, and ease their anxiety. Are you not convinced you need to find family-friendly dental services? Read on to discover the benefits of choosing a family dentist today! Avoid Decay and Disease Cavities (tooth decay) develop when plaque binds to teeth. Plaque forms from a combination of: Food particles Acid Saliva Bacteria Plaque can release acid, which can erode protective tooth enamel. Enamel protects our teeth from decay. As the enamel weakens, your risk of tooth decay will increase. Tooth decay can cause pain, sensitivity, and visible holes in your teeth. When left untreated, it can cause complications, including: Pain An abscess Chewing problems Broken or damaged teeth Tooth loss Swelling or pus around a tooth Tooth loss may affect your appearance, self-esteem, and confidence. A tooth abscess may lead to life-threatening infections. According to the National Library of Medicine , the mortality rate for an untreated abscess can increase to 40% if patients develop mediastinitis from a descending infection. Plaque can also cause gingivitis, also known as gum disease. Without treatment, gum disease can increase your risk of lung disease, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Symptoms include: Loose teeth Red, swollen, or tender gums Gums that bleed A change in your bite Sensitivity Foul-smelling breath Pus between the gums and teeth Pain when chewing Gums that pull away from teeth Regular visits to your Chandler dental practice can protect your family's teeth. The dentist will recognize early signs of decay and disease. They will ensure your family members begin immediate treatment before complications develop. Ease Dental Anxiety According to this meta-analysis on dental anxiety, the prevalence of dental anxiety in children and adolescents is 23.9%. If your child struggles with dental anxiety now, it may affect them as an adult. Their anxiety could keep them from scheduling regular dental checkups. Routine checkups may help: Ensure early detection of dental issues Prevent tooth decay Enhance their oral hygiene Keep their teeth white and bright Boost their self-esteem and confidence Improve their overall health Save them time and money Give them peace of mind Choosing family dental care may help your child grow comfortable around their dentist. They will have the familiarity and support of the family members receiving treatment alongside them. Helping your child grow comfortable around the dentist now can help them later. They will prioritize their oral health as adults, which can improve their overall health and set them up for success. Convenience Taking multiple children to the dentist and scheduling your appointment across several days can be time-consuming and stressful. Choosing family dental services in Chandler will save you valuable time. You can enjoy the ease and convenience of visiting the same dentist during a single trip. You will not have to worry about taking your kids out of school or taking time off work multiple times a year. Family Dental Care Your Chandler dental team will care about and get to know your family. They will collect a comprehensive family history, including: Past dental disease Previous oral surgeries Sensitivities Allergies These records can help the dental team develop a preventive treatment plan tailored to your children's needs. For example, perhaps you have had gingivitis. A family history may increase your child's risk. Knowing this, your family dental care team can help mitigate or prevent your child's gingivitis. They may recommend more frequent dental appointments, allowing them to catch early signs of gingivitis before it worsens. This can give you peace of mind while ensuring your child's oral and overall health. Comprehensive Dental Care Your Chandler dental practice will offer comprehensive dental care for your entire family. These family-friendly dental services may include: Dental cleanings Dental imaging Silver diamine fluoride Emergency Dentistry Dental implants Dentures Teeth whitening Crowns and bridges Dental veneers Pediatric Dentistry Sedation dentistry Wisdom teeth removal Orthodontics Accessing these comprehensive services in one place will save you time and money. You can develop personalized dental care plans to meet each family member's unique needs. Brighter Smiles Routine dental appointments can improve your family's oral health. Reducing plaque and tartar can keep teeth healthy and bright. If you are concerned about the appearance of your smile, talk to your Chandler dentist about cosmetic dentistry services. They can whiten or straighten your teeth, improving the appearance of your smile. Cosmetic dentistry services can boost your self-esteem and confidence, improving your quality of life. Lasting Relationships Your children can continue visiting their family dentist even after they turn 18. They will not have to grow accustomed to a new dentist. Instead, they can develop a lasting relationship with a dentist who already understands their medical history. This ensures your family receives consistent, family-friendly dental services from a team you know and trust. Emergency Dental Services in Chandler Choosing a Chandler family dentist who offers emergency dental services will give you peace of mind. If your child chips or knocks out a tooth, it is essential to receive treatment promptly. Immediate treatment may help save the tooth or reduce the likelihood of complications. Dental emergencies can be frustrating and painful. Knowing your emergency dentist can save time and ensure your child's comfort and well-being. Their familiarity with the dentist may ease their dental anxiety. Choose Chandler Family Dentistry Today Relying on a Chandler family dentistry practice will save you time, money, and stress. You can depend on a familiar and friendly dentist who understands your family's dental history and needs. Their compassion and skill can help your family maintain optimal oral health. Choose a Chandler dental practice that is committed to providing exceptional dental care with a personalized touch. At Bellissimo Dentistry, our team prioritizes comfort while providing technology-driven dental care.  We offer precise and effective treatments with minimally invasive procedures. Rely on our affordable dental care that is tailored to your needs. Contact us now to schedule your appointment.
A dentist examines a child 's teeth in a dental office

From Toothaches to Broken Teeth: When to Seek Emergency Dental Care

By Bellissimo Dentistry & Implant Center • May 20, 2025
Struggling with tooth pain but not sure if it requires emergency dental care? Learn when to see a general dentist and when you need instant care in our guide.
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