Implant surgery is a multi-step process that can take several months to complete. The procedure itself typically takes 1 to 2 hours for each implant that is placed, and the healing time is 3 to 6 months. During this time, the titanium alloy implant will fuse with surrounding bone tissue. In some cases, a minor bone graft may be needed before the implant surgery, which can be done at the same time as the implant surgery.
The first step is to meet with a restorative dentist to determine if you're a candidate for
dental implants
. A CT scan is performed and the doctor will evaluate the existing dentition along with the bone structure at the site of the implant. If your jaw isn't thick enough or too soft, you may need a bone graft before you can have dental implant surgery. Once your dentist is convinced that you are ready to receive the implant, the process begins.Your dentist will take about an hour per implant. Your next appointment will be four to six months later. Now, the dentist will decide if the implant is ready to receive the abutment and crown that complete the process. The artificial root is placed in the bone and allowed to heal.
The initial healing process takes 1 to 2 weeks. However, the implant must also “osseointegrate” with the jaw bone. This means that it adheres completely to the bone and becomes a natural part of the mouth. This process can take 3 to 6 months or longer, depending on your case. If you want to have a temporary tooth while you wait for the implant to heal, ask your dentist about your options.
Much of that time is spent healing and waiting for new bone to grow in the jaw. Depending on your situation, the specific procedure performed or the materials used, certain steps can sometimes be combined. You might be surprised to hear that most patients say that getting a dental implant hurts less than extracting a tooth. The right method to ensure long-term success is to place the artificial root and allow the body time to accept and integrate the implant. The entire process can take many months from start to finish. Now is the time to start YOUR dental implant journey by scheduling a consultation.