Dental Implants: Procedure, Healing and Duration
From planning and the procedure to the finished crown: this is how implant treatment works and how long it takes.
A dental implant is not a procedure done “in passing” but a carefully planned treatment over several months. Most patients are surprised at how little the actual procedure affects them – the longest phase is the healing period, during which you have almost nothing to do.
Implant treatment comprises consultation and planning, placing the implant under local anaesthesia, a healing period of usually two to six months and finally the crown. If bone needs to be built up, the treatment takes longer.
The phases at a glance
Procedure- Examination and planningTeeth, gums and bone are examined; an X-ray and, if necessary, a 3D scan (CBCT) show how much bone is available. Any existing periodontitis is treated first.
- Cost planTreatment and cost plan (Heil- und Kostenplan) including your health insurer’s fixed subsidy.
- Implant placementUnder local anaesthesia the gum is opened, a precise bed is prepared in the bone and the implant is screwed in. For one implant this usually takes less than an hour.
- HealingBone grows onto the implant surface (osseointegration). This is often faster in the lower jaw than in the upper jaw.
- UncoveringIf the implant has healed under the gum, it is uncovered in a small procedure and a healing abutment is fitted.
- Impression and crownDigital impression, fabrication and fitting of the crown on the abutment.
- Aftercareregular check-ups and professional cleaning.
What does the procedure feel like?
Thanks to the local anaesthetic, you mainly feel pressure and vibration during implant placement. In the first few days afterwards, swelling, a bruise and wound pain may occur. Cooling, rest and painkillers help; most patients are able to work again after one to two days.
What to do after implant placement
- On the day of surgery: cool, no smoking, no alcohol, no sport.
- Soft food; do not chew on the implant side.
- Brush your teeth as usual but leave out the wound; rinse as instructed.
- Stitches are removed after about 7–10 days.
Immediate implant placement and immediate loading
In favourable cases an implant can be placed directly after the tooth is removed and sometimes fitted with a temporary crown straight away. Whether this is possible for you depends on the bone, the inflammation situation and the stability of the implant.
Book your appointment at the Zahnarztpraxis St. Peter – via online booking or by phone on 0911 554181. You will find us at Hainstraße 25, 90461 Nürnberg (tram 6/10 to Scharrerstraße, patient parking via Scharrerstraße).
Frequently asked questions
How long does the whole treatment take?
Without bone grafting, usually three to six months from implant placement to crown. With bone grafting it can take longer.
Will I have a gap during healing?
In the visible area you receive a temporary solution so that you feel comfortable in everyday life.
This article is a translation of our German guide and does not replace a personal examination and consultation. If you have symptoms, please see a dentist – for example at the Zahnarztpraxis St. Peter in Nuremberg.
