It’s a team effort.

The most crucial part of the process is starting the discussion with your dentist. They will be looking after the prosthetic tooth (crown) that goes onto the implant—a process called implant restoration—once the implant has been placed and integrated.

We will work with your dentist or dental specialist to find a solution most suitable for your circumstance—even if it means something other than an implant.

What are your thoughts?

We will go over your concerns and what you are hoping to achieve. Our goal is to align ourselves with what can be realiably achieved.

Assessing the lay of the land.

We will assess the area(s) where the implant(s) will be placed. Commonly, additional imaging is required for us to accurately plan where the implant should go. This involves a 3d x-ray (CBCT) and an intraoral scan. We aim to provide these on the same day. However, if we can’t, we will make arrangements for these to be carried out.

Technology is key.

There are several components to planning the procedure:

• Normal x-rays (periapical and panoramic radiographs)

• 3d x-ray imaging (CBCT)

• 3d picture of the mouth (Intraoral scanning)

Together, these modalities provide us with the information needed to navigate the intricacies of implant surgery.

What happens here?

The diagonistic information is gathered and mapped using modern software. Important areas close to nerves and blood vessels in the jaw are identified. The volume of bone available can be estimated and we can determine whether the site is suitable for an implant as is. If required, there are several methods of bone grafting available to help turn the tides in our favour.

Keeping you informed.

A letter that outlines the findings will be prepared for you. It will detail whether any bone or soft tissue grafting is necessary and will outline the estimated cost.

Green for go.

Once all this has been processed, the digital surgical plan will be manufactured into a custom, one-off, guide for the planned implant. We work with facilities based in New Zealand to produce these, and we keep as much of our processes within the country as possible.

The time has come.

If you’re a bit apprehensive, some procedural sedation might help take the edge off. You will be required to use an antibacterial mouthwash immediately before the procedure.

Sterility is key.

A special drape will be used that only exposes the mouth will be used. This ensures that any bacteria on your skin and in your hair is unlikely to invade the surgical area. Unlike other common procedures in the broader realm of dentistry, implant placement requires the utmost care, and we are equipped to provide it. The handle covers, switch covers, gloves, drapes, and gowns are all sterile single-use items.

Rest-up before our next catch-up.

Following implant placement, you will have a partially exposed component called a healing abutment or a healing cap if it will be covered fully under the gums. We will assess the integration of the implant over the coming months to ensure that the area is optimised for the prosthetic tooth to be placed and secured.