If you’re wondering why Dr. Laun places the implant post and abutment but your general dentist completes the final tooth, this explains the team approach. Placing dental implants is a surgical procedure that requires precise planning and technical skill. Your trusted general dentist knows your smile and will craft the final restoration. This patient-first model helps deliver safer care and better long-term results for impants in Carbondale, IL.
Why an oral surgeon focuses on placing the implant post — not the crown
Oral surgeons are trained to manage surgical anatomy, bone, and soft tissue. Their work centers on accurate implant positioning, avoiding vital structures, and creating the right foundation for a lasting restoration. Restorative dentists specialize in esthetics, bite function, and matching tooth color and shape. Separating surgical and restorative roles reduces risk, improves implant longevity, and gives you a final tooth that looks and feels natural.
How implant placement works (step-by-step)
Comprehensive planning
We start with a full evaluation using CBCT imaging and digital planning. These tools map nerves, sinuses, and bone volume so the implant is safely placed. We do not do same-day consult-to-surgery. Review and planning time matters to protect your health and ensure the best outcome.
Surgical placement
When appropriate, Dr. Laun can extract a failing tooth and place an endosteal implant in the same visit. We use precise techniques and, when needed, zygomatic implants for severe upper jaw bone loss. Most implants placed at our office follow careful, image-guided surgical protocols for accuracy.
Abutment, osseointegration, and timing
After the implant is placed, an abutment connects the implant to the future crown. Osseointegration — the bone bonding to the implant — takes time. We monitor stability with tools like the Osstell ISQ to determine when your dentist can safely restore the tooth. This healing window is critical for long-term success.
How your general dentist restores the tooth after surgery
Once the implant is stable, we coordinate with your general dentist for the final crown. We share digital scans or impressions, ISQ readings, and surgical details so the prosthesis fits precisely. Your dentist customizes the color, shape, and bite to match your natural teeth. This teamwork ensures personalized results for impants in Carbondale, IL.
What to expect at Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery of Carbondale
Dr. Billy B. Laun II is a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon leading a team with over 24 years of combined experience. Our office is about 15 minutes from Marion, IL. We use advanced technologies—X-Guide 3D Dynamic Navigation, CBCT, Intraoral Scanner (IS 3800W), Osstell ISQ, PRF, PIEZOSURGERY®, PerioLase®, and AccuVein—to plan and place impants in Carbondale, IL with high precision. We offer office-based anesthesia and personalized care to keep you comfortable.
Why this approach protects your long-term oral health
Specialist surgical placement, precise planning, and close monitoring of osseointegration lower complications like implant failure or poor esthetics. Working with your general dentist for the prosthesis preserves your bite and smile harmony. This collaborative model gives each expert the role they do best, improving longevity and patient satisfaction.
Common patient questions about impants in Carbondale, IL
- Will I need bone grafting? Many patients do if bone has resorbed; grafting can rebuild a stable foundation. - How long before my tooth is restored? Healing often takes several months; timing depends on stability checks like ISQ readings. - Do you place crowns in-office? No — restoration is completed by your general dentist. We coordinate closely for fit and timing. - What about emergency contact and follow-up? We provide 24-hour access and personal care coordination, including direct contact when needed.
Other oral surgery services at OMS Carbondale
We also provide wisdom tooth removal, bone grafting, laser treatment for periodontal disease and failing implants, orthognathic surgery, TMJ care, and pathology evaluation. Contact our office to coordinate surgical care with your general dentist.
