If you’re considering dental implants in Woodhaven, MI, one of the first questions you’ll likely have is: what actually happens during the procedure? Understanding the dental implant surgery process from start to finish can ease anxiety and set realistic expectations for your treatment. Here’s a step-by-step walkthrough of what patients at Brownstown Dental Care experience.

Step 1: Consultation and 3D Treatment Planning

Every implant case at our Woodhaven office begins with a thorough consultation. Dr. Ben Hanson reviews your medical and dental history, takes cone beam CT (CBCT) 3D imaging of your jaw, and assesses bone density and gum health. This imaging is essential — it allows Dr. Hanson to plan the precise position, angle, and depth of each implant before any procedure begins. If bone grafting or other preparatory work is needed, it is identified at this stage and discussed with you upfront.

Step 2: Preparatory Procedures (When Needed)

Some patients require bone grafting, tooth extraction, or soft tissue preparation before implant placement. These procedures are performed in-house at our Woodhaven office and may require a healing period of several weeks to months before implant surgery proceeds. Not every patient needs this step — Dr. Hanson will tell you at your consultation whether it applies to your case.

Step 3: Implant Placement Surgery

On the day of surgery, you’ll receive IV sedation so you are comfortable and relaxed throughout. Dr. Hanson makes a small incision in the gum tissue, then places the titanium implant post — which functions as your new artificial tooth root — precisely into the prepared channel in your jawbone. The gum is sutured closed and the implant is left to heal. Most patients report little to no discomfort during the procedure. Surgery typically takes one to two hours depending on the number of implants being placed.

Step 4: Osseointegration — The Healing Phase

After placement, the implant fuses with the surrounding jawbone through a biological process called osseointegration. This is what gives implants their exceptional stability — they become a fixed part of your skeletal structure. Osseointegration typically takes three to six months. A temporary restoration ensures you are never without teeth during this period.

Step 5: Abutment Placement

Once osseointegration is confirmed, a small connector piece called an abutment is attached to the top of the implant post. This piece sits just above the gumline and serves as the anchor point for your final restoration. In some cases Dr. Hanson places the abutment at the same appointment as the implant itself.

Step 6: Final Restoration

Digital scans of your mouth are taken using our in-house intraoral scanner to fabricate your custom crown, bridge, or full-arch restoration with precision. Your final restoration is secured to the abutment — and your new, permanent smile is complete.

What Is Recovery Like After Dental Implant Surgery?

Most patients experience mild soreness and swelling for a few days after placement, easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief and cold compresses. Dr. Hanson provides detailed post-operative instructions and our team is available if questions arise during your recovery.

Ready to take the first step? Schedule a free consultation with Dr. Ben Hanson at Brownstown Dental Care in Woodhaven, MI. We’ll walk through the entire implant process with you and build a treatment plan designed specifically for your situation.