Oral Surgery Procedures · Tooth Replacement
Dental Implants
A dental implant is a small titanium or ceramic post placed in the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. Once the bone fuses to it, the implant can support a crown, a bridge or a full arch of teeth that look, feel and function much like natural teeth. With good care, an implant can last a lifetime.
About 1 week of initial healing
3–9 months for bone to fuse to the implant
Lifetime potential with proper care
Understanding Implants
How an implant replaces a tooth
Every implant restoration has three parts that work together, much like the root and crown of a natural tooth.
The Implant Post
A small threaded post placed in the jawbone. It serves as the new tooth root.
- Most implants are titanium; some are ceramic. Both are biocompatible.
- Bone grows onto its surface in a process called osseointegration.
- It stands on its own, so neighboring teeth don’t need to be reshaped.
The Abutment
A small connector that attaches to the implant and extends just above the gumline.
- Usually attached after the implant has healed.
- Forms the foundation for the new visible tooth.
- Helps the gum tissue heal into a natural shape around the restoration.
The Restoration
The part you see. It is custom-made to match your smile.
- Single crown to replace one missing tooth.
- Implant bridge on two or more implants to replace several teeth.
- Full arch of teeth, fixed or snap-on, usually supported by four to six implants.
The Procedure
How implant treatment typically works
Treatment is usually completed in stages over several months. The exact timeline depends on your bone, your overall health and the type of restoration planned.
Step 1
Evaluation & planning
- Exam, X-rays and often a 3D CBCT scan to measure bone and map nerves and sinuses.
- Review of your medical history and medications.
- Bone grafting may be recommended first if the bone is too thin.
Step 2
Implant placement
- Local anesthesia numbs the area; sedation is often available.
- A small incision exposes the bone, and a precise opening is prepared for the implant.
- The implant is placed and the gum is closed with stitches.
- A temporary tooth may be provided for teeth that show when you smile.
Step 3
Healing & osseointegration
- The gums heal in about a week.
- The jawbone fuses to the implant over roughly three to nine months.
- Follow-up visits confirm the implant is stable before the final tooth is made.
Step 4
Final restoration
- The abutment is attached, sometimes with a minor procedure to uncover the implant.
- Impressions or digital scans are taken.
- Your crown, bridge or denture is secured to the implant.
Is It Right for You?
Who is a good candidate
Most healthy adults missing one or more teeth can be considered. The main requirement is enough healthy jawbone to anchor the implant.
Good candidates usually
- Are done growing, typically age 18 or older. There is no upper age limit.
- Have healthy gums and enough jawbone, or can have bone rebuilt with grafting.
- Can keep up daily brushing, flossing and regular dental visits.
Factors that need extra planning
- Active or untreated gum disease, or extensive tooth decay.
- Unmanaged diabetes, certain bone disorders or some medications.
- Significant bone loss in the jaw.
- Smoking or vaping, which slows bone healing and raises the risk of implant failure.
Benefits of implants
- Chew and speak more naturally and confidently.
- Help preserve the jawbone, which shrinks after a tooth is lost.
- Stabilize loose dentures.
- Can last a lifetime with good hygiene. Crowns and dentures on top may eventually need replacing.
After Implant Surgery
Know what’s normal, and when to call
There should be no pain during surgery. Afterward, mild discomfort and swelling are normal, and most people feel like themselves within about a week.
What’s normal
- Mild swelling, bruising and tenderness for several days.
- Light oozing during the first 24 hours.
- Discomfort that is controlled with your prescribed or over-the-counter pain relievers.
- A small metal healing cap visible through the gum, if one was placed.
Call our office if
- The implant feels loose or wobbly.
- You notice pus, swollen or bleeding gums around the implant.
- You have a fever above 101°F or swollen lymph nodes in your neck.
- Pain or swelling gets worse after day three.
- Numbness of the lip, chin or tongue lasts after the anesthetic should have worn off.
For day-by-day recovery tips, see our Post-Care & Recovery guide. If you have difficulty breathing or swallowing, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Next Steps
Considering dental implants?
A consultation with an oral and maxillofacial surgeon is the best way to learn whether implants are right for you and what your treatment timeline would look like.
This page describes how the procedure is typically performed and is not a substitute for professional advice. Your surgeon will recommend a plan based on your exam, imaging and health history.
