What Is Implant Exposure Surgery?
Implant exposure surgery is a minor surgical procedure performed to uncover a dental implant that was intentionally buried beneath the gum tissue at the time of placement. In a two-stage implant protocol, the implant is placed and the gum tissue is closed over it to allow undisturbed healing and osseointegration. Once the implant has fully integrated with the bone, a second procedure is needed to expose the implant, attach a healing abutment, and prepare the site for the final restoration.
Implant Exposure Surgery: Quick Facts
| Quick fact | Typical answer |
|---|---|
| Number of visits | 1 |
| Time needed | 15 to 30 minutes |
| Anesthesia | Local anesthesia |
| Recovery time | A day or two; gum heals in 2 to 4 weeks |
| Next step | Impressions for the final crown |
These are typical ranges. Your own plan is confirmed after an examination.
Who Needs Implant Exposure Surgery
Some implants are left covered by gum while they heal, which protects them from pressure. Once the bone has bonded, the implant is uncovered so a crown can be made.
- Your implant was placed in two stages
- A bone graft was done at the same time as the implant
- The implant has had three to six months to heal
- X-rays confirm the implant has integrated
- You are ready to begin the crown stage
Implant Exposure Surgery at Bensonhurst Dental Care
At Bensonhurst Dental Care, implant exposure surgery is performed by Dr. Geoffrey Rubinshtein, who placed the implant and continues to manage the surgical and soft tissue aspects of the case through every phase. The procedure is straightforward: Dr. Geoffrey makes a small incision in the gum tissue to access the top of the implant, removes any tissue covering it, and attaches a healing abutment that protrudes through the gumline. This abutment shapes the surrounding gum tissue as it heals, creating the proper contour for the eventual implant crown or prosthesis.
What to Expect, Step by Step
- Check. An X-ray confirms healing.
- Numbing. A small amount of local anesthesia is given.
- Uncovering. A small opening is made in the gum over the implant.
- Healing abutment. A healing cap is attached to shape the gum.
- Gum healing. The gum heals around the cap for two to four weeks before impressions.
One-stage and two-stage implants
| Approach | What happens at placement | Exposure surgery needed? |
|---|---|---|
| One-stage | A healing cap is attached at placement and stays visible | No |
| Two-stage | The implant is covered by gum while it heals | Yes |
Exposure surgery is the shortest visit in implant treatment, and the one that tells you the end is in sight.
Recovery and Aftercare
After your visit
The first 24 hours
- Avoid chewing on the area
- Rinse gently with salt water
- Take pain relief if needed; most patients need little
The following days and weeks
- Brush the healing cap gently with a soft brush
- Tell us if the cap loosens
- Book the impression visit
When to Call Us
Call the office on (718) 234-3434 if you notice any of the following:
- The healing cap comes off or feels loose
- The gum grows over the cap
- Swelling or pain increases
Recovery and the Crown Stage
The procedure is quick, performed under local anesthesia, and recovery is minimal. Most patients experience little to no discomfort and return to normal activities the same day. The healing abutment remains in place for several weeks while the gum tissue matures around it, at which point the final impression is taken and the permanent restoration is fabricated.
Cost and Insurance
The fee for periodontal treatment depends on how much of the mouth is affected and on whether surgery or grafting is needed. You receive a written estimate after your gum evaluation.
What affects the cost
- The number of teeth or areas treated
- Whether treatment is non-surgical or surgical
- Graft materials and membranes, where used
- Sedation, if you choose it
Many dental plans contribute to gum disease treatment and maintenance. Benefits are often set per quarter of the mouth. Our team can check your benefits and explain your options before treatment begins.
