Dr Otgen Clinic guide

A dental implant is a titanium root placed in the jawbone to replace a missing tooth; together with the crown fitted on top, it restores chewing function close to that of a natural tooth. Implant treatment is not completed in a single appointment: the time the implant needs to fuse with the bone is the longest and most important part of the treatment. Below we explain each stage and why there is a wait; timings vary with your bone structure and treatment plan.

1. Examination and planning

Treatment starts with an oral examination and X-rays. The height and width of the bone where the implant will be placed are often assessed with a three-dimensional CT scan. These images are used to plan the length and angle of the implant and its distance from structures such as nerves and the sinus.

Your general health is also discussed. Uncontrolled diabetes, smoking, a history of radiotherapy to the head and neck, and some medicines used for osteoporosis can affect how well the implant integrates. Share all the medicines you take and any illnesses you have had in full at the consultation.

2. Preparatory procedures, if needed

Some patients need preparation before the implant. Teeth that need extracting, gum disease or infection are treated first. If there is not enough bone, a bone graft may be planned, and in the upper back jaw the sinus floor may be raised (sinus lift).

Preparatory procedures can lengthen the overall treatment, but a long-lasting implant needs a solid foundation of bone and gum.

3. Placing the implant

The implant is placed under local anaesthesia, so you do not feel pain during the procedure. The duration depends on the number of implants and is usually 30–120 minutes for a single implant. Stitches are placed at the end if needed.

In suitable cases a temporary tooth can be fitted on the day the implant is placed. Your dentist makes this decision after assessing bone density and the initial stability of the implant; it is not suitable for every patient.

Care in the first days

  • For the first 24 hours avoid rinsing your mouth and very hot food and drinks
  • Choose soft foods in the first days and do not chew on the implant side
  • Apply cold compresses to your cheek for swelling as your dentist describes
  • Smoking impairs healing into the bone; you are advised to stop during treatment
  • Keep brushing your other teeth; clean the implant site the way your dentist tells you

Mild swelling, tenderness and bruising lasting a few days are expected side effects. Most people can return to work the next day.

4. The healing period: fusing with the bone

Before a permanent tooth is fitted, the implant needs to fuse with the jawbone (osseointegration). This usually takes about 2–3 months in the lower jaw and 3–6 months in the upper jaw, depending on bone quality. If a bone graft or sinus lift was performed, it may take longer.

During this period a temporary prosthesis can be used for a gap in a visible area. The healing time cannot be shortened; the long-term stability of the implant depends largely on this period being completed.

5. Healing cap, impressions and try-in

Once integration is complete, a healing cap that shapes the gum is placed on the implant. The gum takes shape around this cap within a few weeks.

Digital or conventional impressions are then taken. The colour, shape and bite of the permanent tooth are checked at a try-in appointment.

6. Fitting the permanent tooth and long-term care

The permanent crown or bridge is fixed onto the implant and the bite is checked. From this point on, the implant tooth needs daily care just like natural teeth.

Inflammation of the gum around the implant (peri-implantitis) can develop. To prevent it, in addition to daily brushing, using interdental brushes or floss and attending a check-up and professional cleaning every six months is recommended.

Total duration and number of appointments

In a treatment that needs no preparation, the time from placing the implant to the permanent tooth is usually a few months, and treatment is generally completed in 2–6 appointments. Plans that need bone grafts or several implants take longer.

If you are travelling from another city or abroad, two separate visits are usually planned because of the healing period between placing the implant and fitting the permanent tooth. Setting the appointment dates together at the first examination makes it easier to arrange your travel in advance.

Frequently asked questions

Is implant treatment painful?

Because the procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, you do not feel pain during it. Tenderness afterwards usually lasts a few days and is managed with the pain relief your dentist recommends.

Can the implant and tooth be fitted on the same day?

If bone density and the initial stability of the implant are suitable, a temporary tooth can be fitted on the same day. The permanent tooth is made after the implant has fused with the bone.

Can I have an implant if I do not have enough bone?

A lack of bone can often be addressed with preparatory procedures such as a bone graft or sinus lift. Which method is suitable is decided after the CT assessment.

How long does a dental implant last?

With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, implants can be used for many years. The crown on top may wear over time and can be replaced when needed.

Dr Otgen Clinic Medical Editors · Last updated: October 6, 2026