What is involved in the implant procedure?

There are two types of dental implants: the classic two stage implant protocol and the new one stage immediate loading protocol, both of which are approved by the American Dental Association (ADA)

Classic Two Stage Protocol

The dental implant process involves several steps that take place over a time period that averages from 4 to 9 months. The typical process will include:

Initial implant placement: This procedure is performed in our office under a local anesthesia. For those who prefer it, we can also use IV sedation. The doctor places the small implant into your jaw. Over the next several months, bone will attach to the surface of the implant anchoring it into position. Depending on your particular case, an additional minor procedure creates an opening through which your artificial tooth will emerge.

Implant prosthetic attachment: During this phase, your dentist painlessly attaches a prosthetic "post" to the implant. A simple impression will be taken and over the next few days an artificial tooth will be created for a functional natural restoration.

One Stage Immediate Loading Protocol

Using the latest in implant technology the dental surgeon will place the implant into your jaw and attach the prosthetic tooth soon thereafter, thus reducing the number of visits to the dentists office and allowing you to enjoy your new teeth much sooner.

In just one visit to Costa Rica we can place the implants and fabricate the final crowns so that you can go home and enjoy them. This protocol can be used in almost any case, from full mouth rehabilitation to replacing a single tooth obtaining a wonderful final result.

Most patients are candidates for this protocol except those that need a bone graft along with the implant, or patients with osteoporosis, bruxisim and/or intraoral infections of any kind.

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