Phase 1: Comprehensive Consultation and 3D Planning
Every successful implant procedure begins with a solid plan. During your initial visit to our Honolulu office, Dr. Nishime will perform a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. This is not just a visual check; we utilize advanced diagnostic tools to get a complete picture of your oral anatomy.
We use high-resolution 3D imaging to assess the density and volume of your bone. This technology allows us to identify the precise location of nerves and sinuses, ensuring that the implant is placed safely and in the optimal position for long-term stability. This digital planning phase is crucial because it eliminates guesswork, allowing us to create a surgical guide tailored specifically to your mouth.
We will also discuss your medical history and aesthetic goals. Our bilingual (English-Japanese) team is here to ensure that communication is clear and that all your questions are answered.
Phase 2: Preparing the Foundation
For an implant to be successful, it requires a healthy environment. Some patients may need preparatory procedures before the implant can be placed. If you have a damaged tooth that cannot be saved, it must be removed. Our team handles oral surgery, including extractions, right here in our office.
Additionally, if you have experienced bone loss due to missing teeth or periodontal disease, your jaw might not be thick enough to support an implant. In these cases, bone graftingis performed to regenerate bone tissue and create a sturdy base. We also ensure your gums are free of infection; if gum disease is present, we may recommend periodontal careor scaling & root planingto ensure the soft tissues are healthy enough for surgery.
Phase 3: The Implant Placement Surgery
Once the planning and preparation are complete, you are ready for the placement procedure. While the word “surgery” can be intimidating, the placement of a dental implant is a routine procedure performed with precision and care at our practice.
Dr. Nishime will make a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the bone. A specialized titanium or zirconia post—which acts as the new tooth root—is then gently inserted into the jawbone. We use the most advanced materials to ensure biocompatibility and strength.
We prioritize your comfort throughout this appointment. Local anesthesia is used to completely numb the area. However, we know that many patients suffer from dental anxiety. To help you relax, we offer sedationoptions. This allows you to drift through the appointment with little to no memory of the procedure afterward, making it a stress-free experience.
If you are looking for a dentist’s office near youthat prioritizes anxiety-free care, please contact us at (808) 732-0291to discuss your options.
Phase 4: Osseointegration and Healing
After the implant post is placed, a healing period follows. This phase is critical and typically lasts anywhere from a few months to half a year, depending on your body’s healing rate and the quality of your bone. During this time, a biological process called osseointegration takes place.
Osseointegration is where the jawbone grows around and fuses with the implant post, locking it securely in place. This fusion is what makes dental implants so stable and allows them to function like natural teeth. While you heal, we can provide a temporary restoration so that you do not have to go without a tooth in your smile.
Phase 5: Abutment and Final Restoration
Once osseointegration is complete and the implant is firmly anchored in the jaw, you will return to our office for the final phase. Dr. Nishime will attach a small connector piece, called an abutment, to the implant post. This abutment serves as the base for your new tooth.
Finally, your custom-made restoration is placed. Depending on your specific needs, this could be a single dental crown, an implant-supported bridge, or a full-arch prosthesis like All-on-X.
We take great pride in our cosmetic dentistrycapabilities. Your new tooth will be color-matched to your existing teeth and shaped to complement your facial features. The result is a fully functional, natural-looking smile that allows you to eat, speak, and laugh with total confidence.
To see if you are a candidate for this life-changing procedure, call our office at (808) 732-0291.
Why Choose Advanced Restorative Dentistry?
Choosing the right provider for your implant journey is essential. At Advanced Restorative Dentistry, we combine years of clinical experience with a compassionate approach. We are not just fixing teeth; we are engaging in full mouth rehabilitationthat restores quality of life.
Our practice is equipped to handle complex cases, and we stay current with the latest techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes. From the front desk to the treatment chair, our goal is to make you feel like family. We are proud to be a leading dentist’s office near youin Honolulu, serving our community with integrity and excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
The timeline varies for each patient. For straightforward cases, the process may take 3 to 6 months to allow for bone healing. However, if extensive bone grafting or extractions are required, the timeline may extend to ensure a stable foundation. During your consultation, Dr. Nishime will provide a customized timeline based on your specific oral health needs.
Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the procedure is. We use effective local anesthesia to numb the site, so you shouldn’t feel pain during surgery. Post-operative discomfort is usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. For patients with higher anxiety, our sedation options ensure a relaxed experience.
Yes! Many of our patients transition from traditional dentures to implant-supported solutions. Implants can stabilize loose dentures (overdentures) or replace them entirely with a fixed full-arch bridge, providing much greater chewing power and comfort.
You should care for your implants just like natural teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and routine check-ups at our Honolulu office are vital. Good oral hygiene prevents gum inflammation around the implant, ensuring its longevity for decades to come.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Don’t let missing teeth dictate your life any longer. The dental implant procedure is a proven, safe, and effective way to reclaim your smile. Dr. Nishime and the team at Advanced Restorative Dentistry are here to guide you through every step of the process with skill and compassion.
Contact us today at (808) 732-0291or visit our dentist in Honoluluto schedule your consultation. Let us help you achieve the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve.