What to Expect When Getting Dental Implants
By Dr. Junho Choi
Thinking about dental implants? You’re not alone. They’ve become one of the most reliable and natural-feeling ways to replace missing teeth—and I get a lot of questions about what the process actually looks like. So, let’s break it down together.
Dental implants are a long-term solution that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. And yes, they really do make a difference—not just in your smile, but in your confidence and comfort when eating, speaking, or, you know, showing off at a dinner party.
Here’s what the process usually involves:
Step 1: Consultation & Planning
At your first visit, I’ll evaluate your oral health and use advanced imaging to take a detailed look beneath the surface—think of it as a behind-the-scenes tour of your smile. From there, we’ll create a treatment plan that’s tailored specifically to you. If your jawbone needs extra support, I may recommend bone grafting to ensure a solid foundation for your implant. It’s all about setting things up for long-term success.
Step 2: Implant Placement
This part involves a small surgical procedure where I place a titanium post into your jawbone. It acts like the root of a tooth, and over the next few months, something pretty amazing happens—your bone fuses to the implant. That’s called osseointegration, and it’s one of the big reasons implants are so strong and lasting.
Step 3: The Final Restoration
Once everything’s healed up and secure, we place your custom crown on top. It’s color-matched and designed just for you, so it looks completely natural (and no one will know it’s not the real deal—unless you decide to brag about my artistic dental work).
With the right care— brushing, flossing, and regular checkups—dental implants can last a lifetime. That’s the beauty of doing it right the first time.
If you’re thinking about dental implants in Palm Desert, I’d love to help you understand your options and see if it’s the right fit for your smile and lifestyle. Let’s make a plan that works for you.
Looking forward to seeing you at the studio,
– Dr. Choi
