If you’ve lost a tooth or two, you may find yourself wondering, ‘Am I suitable for dental implants?’. Strength, longevity, and natural appearance are among the best-known benefits of dental implants, so it’s no wonder they’re often the gold standard in tooth replacement. If you’re wondering how dental implants are done, you’ve come to the right blog. We’ll walk you step by step through the dental implant procedure, from consultation to aftercare, so you’ll know exactly what to expect.
Step 1: Consultation & Suitability
The first of the dental implant stages is a comprehensive consultation. Your dentist will determine whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants by assessing your oral health and taking X-rays (or 3D scans) inside your mouth. So long as you have healthy gums and adequate jawbone density, chances are you’ll get the all-clear for dental implants. Failing that, your dentist may recommend a bone graft or other preparatory treatment.
Depending on your needs, this step may also include discussing alternatives, such as dental crowns or dentures.
Step 2: Treatment Planning
Next, your dentist develops a tailored treatment plan. This plan includes mapping the dental implant stages, scheduling necessary preparatory procedures (like extractions), and ensuring you’re comfortable with the process. Your dentist will also explain how dental implants are done and what your recovery timeline might look like.
Step 3: Implant Placement
Now it’s time for the procedure itself. The dentist places a titanium screw — the actual implant — into the jawbone. The implant mimics the root of a natural tooth and serves as the foundation for your new restoration. Dentists typically perform the procedure using local anaesthesia, but we can offer you some sedation options if you’re feeling particularly anxious.
Once your dentist has placed the implant, your body needs time to heal. This stage is crucial for osseointegration, which is the process where the bone fuses with the implant.
Step 4: Healing & Recovery
Dental implant recovery time varies from person to person, but the total healing period generally lasts three to six months. Following your dentist’s aftercare instructions closely during this time is important. Good oral hygiene and regular check-ups are also key to a smooth recovery.
If you’re replacing a front tooth or multiple teeth, your dentist may provide a temporary restoration to maintain function and aesthetics while you heal.
Step 5: Abutment & Crown Placement
Once the implant has fully integrated with your jawbone, the dentist attaches an abutment. This small connector sits above the gumline and holds your final restoration in place. The dentist then attaches a custom crown to the abutment, restoring your tooth’s look and function.
Occasionally, dentists may use implant-supported dental bridges if multiple teeth are missing from a single row.
Benefits of Dental Implants
The benefits of dental implants go beyond aesthetics. They last for decades (with proper care), protect bone health, and function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile confidently. Because implants attach to the jawbone, they give you better biting power than any other prosthetics. They also prevent jaw recession, stimulating the jawbone whenever you bite or chew.
Aftercare & Maintenance
Once you have your implant, you need to maintain ongoing aftercare. Many of our maintenance tips are similar to those we recommend for general dentistry patients: brushing at least twice daily, flossing at least once daily, and attending biannual check-ups. If you want to give your prosthetic teeth the best chance at a long-term stay, you should avoid smoking or consuming tobacco products. These undermine osseointegration and increase the chances of infection. If you experience bruxism (involuntary teeth grinding), you should also find ways to manage the condition, such as stress management or wearing a night guard. Repeated grinding can wear down and damage the crowns.
Once they’ve placed your implants, your dentist will usually recommend some tools to clean around or between your implants or teeth. The top recommendation will likely be a soft-bristled toothbrush, as hard bristles are abrasive against delicate prosthetics. They may also recommend an interdental brush or water flosser. In any case, your dentist will monitor the health of your implant and its surrounding tissue during your check-up to ensure overall stability.
Book Your Implant Consultation Today
Understanding the step-by-step dental implant procedure can make all the difference when deciding what to do next. Stanley St. Dental offers expert care at every stage — from your first consultation to the final placement and beyond. Whether you’re still exploring your options or ready to begin the implant process, our experienced team will help you find the best solution for your smile.
It’s time to restore tooth functionality and aesthetics with a long-term solution. Book an appointment today and let Stanley St. Dental guide you through your dental implant journey with care, precision, and professionalism.