The Dental Implant Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Thinking about getting a dental implant but not sure what the process involves?

Dental implants are one of the most effective, long-lasting solutions for missing teeth. But because they involve a few steps (and a bit of patience), it’s important to understand what the full journey looks like before you begin.

Tend aims to make every part of your implant experience as stress-free as possible. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process—from your first consultation to the moment you bite into your favorite food again with confidence.

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into your jawbone, where it acts as a replacement for the root of a missing tooth.  It is used in implant dentistry to support tooth restoration options like crowns and bridges. Once healed, this post supports a custom-made dental crown that looks and functions like a natural tooth.

It’s strong, stable, and designed to last decades—making it one of the most trusted methods of tooth replacement.

The dental implant procedure involves several steps:

• Consultation: Dental professionals assess oral health using tools like CT scans.
• Preparation: If needed, tooth extraction or bone grafting is done.
• Implant Placement: The titanium implant post is surgically placed in the jaw under local anesthesia.
• Healing: The implant fuses with the bone, a process called osseointegration.
• Abutment Placement: A connector, or abutment, is attached to the implant.
• Crown Placement: Finally, the dental crown is placed on the abutment.

Step 1: The Consultation

Your dental implant journey begins with a consultation. This visit is all about learning if a dental implant is right for you—and creating a personalized plan.

Tend's dental professionals may use CT scans to get a detailed view of your jawbone. This helps determine if you need a bone graft to support the titanium implant. Bone grafting is crucial if your jawbone is not strong enough for the dental implant.

We'll determine whether you’re a good candidate for implants, and walk you through the full process and timeline. Ideal candidates have good oral health, healthy gums, and enough jawbone to support an implant. If you don’t, don’t worry—bone grafting or other prep treatments may still make implants possible.

Here is what to expect during your consultation:

• Oral Examination: Evaluation of your teeth and gums.
• Review X-rays, CT Scans or 3D Imaging: Detailed images to check bone density quality.
• Discussion: Treatment options, including dental implant bridges and mini dental implants. Review medical history, current medications, ask questions and discuss your goals
• Treatment Plan: Tailored to your specific needs and oral hygiene habits.

Step 2: Pre-Treatment (If Needed)

Some patients may need additional procedures before getting an implant. These help create a strong foundation for long-term success.

Here are common pre-treatment steps:

• Bone Grafting: If your jawbone lacks density, a bone graft may be necessary. This procedure strengthens the jaw to support the titanium implant.
• Tooth Extraction: In cases where a tooth is irreparable, extraction may be required to create space for the implant.
• CT Scans: Dentists use these scans to evaluate bone density and structure. They help in planning the implant procedure accurately.
• Oral Health Assessment: Ensuring good oral hygiene and health is crucial. Dental professionals check for gum disease or other issues that need addressing before implant surgery.
• Temporary Crown or Dental Bridge: While waiting for the implant, a temporary crown or dental bridge might be provided for aesthetic reasons or functionality.

These procedures may add healing time—but they’re often essential to ensure your implant stays secure.

Step 3: Implant Placement

This is the big moment: the titanium implant is placed into your jawbone during a minor surgical procedure.

Here's a quick breakdown of the process:

• The area is numbed for a comfortable experience
• The dental professional makes a small incision in the gum to expose the bone.
• A precision drill is used to create a hole in the bone where the implant will sit.
• The titanium implant post is precisely placed into the jaw
• A healing cap may be placed on top to protect the site
• Stitches are applied, if necessary. The gum is stitched back over the implant to protect it during healing.

A temporary crown may be placed to maintain the appearance and function of the mouth during recovery. This step is crucial as the titanium post acts as the root for the new tooth, supporting future abutment placement and the dental crown.

You might feel mild soreness or swelling for a few days, similar to a tooth extraction. Most patients return to daily activities within a day or two.

Maintaining oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups are essential during this phase to ensure successful healing and integration. This step can take several months as the bone and implant fuse, forming a strong base for the tooth restoration.

You’ll go home with aftercare instructions, a soft-food diet recommendation, and follow-up support from your dental team.

Step 4: Osseointegration and Healing

Once your implant is in place, the most important part of the process begins—osseointegration.

This is when your jawbone naturally grows around the dental implant post, securing it like a natural tooth root. It typically takes three to six months, depending on your healing and bone health.

To aid healing and osseointegration, maintaining good oral hygiene is vital. Regular dental check-ups will help monitor progress and prevent complications. Dentists may recommend avoiding hard foods to reduce pressure on the implant site.

Yes, it takes time—but it’s worth it. Osseointegration is what makes implants so durable and effective long-term. Patience is key during this time, as it ensures the success of the dental implant procedure. Once healing is complete, the next step is ready: abutment placement. This stage is vital for a successful tooth restoration and long-term oral health.

Step 5: Abutment Placement

After healing, the next step is to remove the healing cap and attach the abutment—a small connector that links the implant post to your crown. This crucial stage in the dental implant procedure involves attaching a small connector post to the implant.

This in-office procedure involves numbing the area so that you're comfortable. A minor incision is made in the gum tissue to expose the titanium implant. The abutment is carefully screwed onto the top of the implant. This piece will eventually hold the dental crown. The gum tissue may be reshaped around the abutment. This helps create a natural appearance. Healing can take one to two weeks.

Sometimes, a temporary crown is attached. This helps maintain oral health and function while the gum heals.

Some implant systems place the abutment at the same time as the post, so this step may vary depending on your treatment plan.

Step 6: Crown Placement

Once your gums are fully healed from the abutment placement, it’s time for your final dental crown—the part that looks like a real tooth.

A precise impression or digital scans of your mouth are taken to craft a custom-fit crown. The crown can be made from different materials like ceramic or porcelain, chosen to match your natural teeth color.

During your visit, the dentist will attach the crown using a small screw or dental cement. This step is usually done without local anesthesia, as it's a simple process. The dental crown restoration completes the tooth replacement, restoring full function and aesthetics to your smile.

The result? A strong, beautiful, and fully functional replacement tooth that blends seamlessly with your smile.

How Long Does the Dental Implant Process Take?

On average, the full dental implant process can take three to nine months from start to finish, depending on:

• Whether extractions or bone grafting are needed
• How long osseointegration takes for you
• Your personalized treatment plan

Throughout this time, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial for success.

Caring for Your Dental Implant

Good news: Implants are low-maintenance and easy to care for. Follow this simple guide to keep your implant in top condition:

• Brush and floss daily, just like your natural teeth
• Use a soft-bristle brush and non-abrasive toothpaste
• Come to Tend for regular dental checkups and professional cleanings
• Avoid hard or sticky foods that might damage the implant or surrounding teeth. A balanced diet supports recovery and overall health.
• Avoid smoking, which can slow healing and affect implant success

With proper care, your implant can last 15–25 years or more.

Is the Dental Implant Process Worth It?

For many patients, absolutely. While the treatment requires time and commitment, the benefits of dental implants make them one of the best investments in your oral health:

Key advantages:

• Permanent solution—no slipping or adhesives
• Preserves jawbone health
• Feels and functions like a natural tooth
• Improves bite strength and chewing
• Protects nearby teeth from shifting
• Restores confidence in your smile

Your dedicated Tend dental team will be with you every step of the way, making the process clear, comfortable, and customized to your needs.

Why Choose Tend for Dental Implants?

When you choose Tend, you’re not just getting a dental procedure—you’re getting a modern, supportive care experience. Our top-rated team combines clinical precision with warmth and transparency to make your smile journey as stress-free as possible.

Here's why you should consider Tend:

• Soothing, thoughtfully designed studios
• Expert clinicians trained in implant dentistry
• Major insurance plans accepted, plus flexible financing
• Detailed treatment plans built around you
• Follow-up support to ensure your long-term comfort and success

Choosing Tend means opting for quality, expertise, and personalized care in your journey to restore your smile with dental implants.

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