The surgical placement phase is the surgeon’s part in implant treatment. Normally, there is very little trauma and high predictability when care is taken in the diagnosis and planning. Typically, implants are placed with temporary healing extensions (abutments) while the tissue heals. A few situations require a second uncovering procedure. Select cases may actually permit the immediate placement of an implant at the time of extraction or even the immediate restoration (loading) of an implant. Dr. Jones is one of the first to be trained in the technique called “Teeth In An Hour” whereby teeth may be extracted, implants placed and the final prosthesis delivered, all within an hour.
Typically, implants are placed with temporary healing extensions (abutments) for 2-3 months in the lower jaw and 4-6 months in the upper jaw. The healing phase usually requires a temporary tooth replacement for esthetics and function. The temporary prosthesis requires adjustment appropriate to the phase of healing.
