Dental implant treatment step by step — from planning to the crown

The first appointment is for making a plan

The dentist starts by asking about your health, medicines and previous treatment, then examines your teeth, gums and the planned restoration site. X-rays may be needed, including a three-dimensional scan if it helps with safe planning.

This is a good time to discuss concerns and alternatives. Different gaps may need different approaches. Bring previous records if you have them, together with a list of medicines.

When can an implant be placed after tooth removal?

Sometimes an implant can be placed at the same appointment as an extraction. In other cases, the gum or bone is allowed to heal first. Early placement may be planned after several weeks, while later placement involves a longer healing period.

These are different treatment approaches rather than a single deadline for everyone. The choice depends on the site, the ability to place the implant securely and the full restoration plan. Discuss it before a planned extraction where possible.

Surgery is one part of the treatment

Implants are usually placed under local anaesthetic. The dentist prepares a site in the bone, places the implant and protects the tissues. The scope and appointment length depend on the plan.

Mention any worries about pain beforehand and agree how to signal discomfort. Anaesthetic is intended to prevent pain, although you may feel touch or pressure. You will receive instructions for care afterwards.

Gum healing and bone healing are different

The gum may look healed before an implant is ready for the planned load. The implant needs time to bond with the bone; in many plans this takes months. The dentist decides when to proceed by assessing healing.

A short surgical appointment does not mean that the complete restoration will be finished quickly. Bone regeneration, if needed, may extend the timetable.

Plan quieter days after surgery

Pain and swelling can develop once the anaesthetic wears off. Follow your own instructions for pain relief, eating and cleaning. Do not choose an antibiotic yourself or change regular medicines without medical advice.

Before leaving, ask how to clean the area, what to avoid temporarily and whom to contact. Increasing pain or swelling, fever or persistent bleeding should be reported to the treating team. Difficulty breathing or swallowing requires urgent medical help.

When is the finished crown fitted?

Once healing has been assessed, the final restoration can be made. This involves fitting the visible replacement, checking the bite and explaining how to clean it.

A temporary crown, if planned, is not necessarily the final result. “Immediate implant”, “immediate temporary tooth” and “finished permanent crown” describe different things. Ask what will be fitted at each stage.

Three things to take away from the consultation

• A list of stages, approximate dates and factors that could change them.
• A plan for replacing the tooth during healing, if needed.
• A written estimate, follow-up date and arrangements for contact after surgery.