Reviewed by Dr. Alan Baughman, DMD, MBA
Reading time: three minutes
Dental implants are often described as a long-term solution for missing teeth, but many people are unsure what the actual procedure involves. From the first exam to final crown placement, the dental implant process happens in stages over several months.
Table of Contents
Dental Implant Procedure Step-by-Step
Dental implant treatment follows a predictable sequence, with each phase serving a distinct purpose and timeline.
Step 1: Examination and Planning
Your dental implant treatment starts with a thorough exam and imaging to confirm that an implant is the right option for your smile. During this visit, your teeth, gums, and jawbone are evaluated using imaging to understand how much support is available for an implant.
This information helps determine where the implant should be placed and whether any additional procedures are needed beforehand. Some patients are able to move directly into implant placement, while others benefit from preparation first to support proper healing and long-term results
Step 2: Implant Placement Surgery
Local anesthetic is used to keep the area numb, and sedation may be recommended based on comfort needs. Once the area is numb, the gum tissue is opened and a small space is prepared in the jawbone for the implant.
The implant is placed into this space to serve as a replacement for the tooth root. A single implant typically takes about an hour to place. After placement, the gum tissue closes around the implant, sometimes with a healing cap in place to support proper healing.
Step 3: Healing and Osseointegration
Over the first one to two weeks, the gum tissue heals and seals around the implant site. During this time, it is important to follow post-operative instructions to protect the area and support proper healing.
The second stage is osseointegration. Over the next several months, the jawbone gradually grows around the implant. This process creates the stability needed to support the final crown and allows the implant to function like a natural tooth root.
Step 4: Abutment and Final Restoration
Once healing is complete, the final phase of treatment begins. An abutment is placed to connect the implant to the visible portion of the tooth.
A custom crown is then made to fit comfortably with your bite and blend with the surrounding teeth. When the crown is secured, the implant is fully restored and ready for normal chewing and daily function.
Understanding each stage of the dental implant process helps set clear expectations and supports long-term treatment success.
Dental Implants in Greeley, CO
For patients in Greeley considering dental implants, a consultation at Clearwater Dentistry allows for a personalized review of bone support, oral health, and treatment considerations before moving forward.
To book a dental implant consultation at our dental office in Greeley, CO, call (970) 515-3550 or visit us at 3110 67th Ave Pl, Greeley, CO.
FAQs
Planning usually takes one or two visits. Implant placement occurs in a single appointment. Healing and osseointegration usually take three to six months. Final restoration typically takes several weeks after healing.
Most patients feel pressure during surgery, not pain. Post-surgical soreness is usually mild and temporary.
Dental implants are considered a safe and predictable treatment. As with any surgical procedure, risks can include infection, implant failure, or irritation of nearby structures. These complications are uncommon and are carefully evaluated during treatment planning.
For a single missing tooth, a dental bridge is the most common alternative to an implant. A bridge relies on the neighboring teeth for support, while an implant replaces the tooth without involving adjacent teeth. The differences between these options can be reviewed during a consultation.
