How Are Dental Implants Placed?

Implant placement involves inserting an artificial root into the jawbone to replace a tooth lost for various reasons. It is a multi-stage treatment with a potentially lengthy healing process, so it's important for the patient to be both physically and mentally prepared.

In the first stage, the patient undergoes a radiological and physical examination, and ongoing conditions and medications are reviewed. Once the jawbone is deemed suitable, local or general anesthesia is administered, any necessary extraction is performed, and the implant is placed in the jaw and covered with gum tissue.

In the second stage, the implant is left to fuse with the jawbone. This period varies by patient but generally lasts two to six months; during this time the patient may use temporary teeth and should pay particular attention to oral hygiene.

In the third stage, an abutment for the crown is prepared and placed, followed by roughly two more weeks of healing. In the fourth stage, a custom-made tooth, crafted from the chosen material, is fixed onto the implant.

Unlike a bridge, implant treatment only involves the area with the missing tooth and does not require reshaping healthy neighboring teeth. Implant-supported bridges may be used for multiple missing teeth.

Treatment cost is influenced by factors such as the technique used (e.g., stitchless or mini implants), the implant brand, material quality, and the dentist's experience. For accurate information, it's best to consult a dentist directly.