By Dr. George Tunder – Montour Oral Surgery
One of the most common questions we hear at Montour Oral Surgery is, “How long do dental implants take from start to finish?” While every case is unique, the general dental implant process takes several months and occurs in stages to ensure long-term success.
This article outlines the full dental implant timeline so you can understand what to expect at each step—and why patience pays off when restoring your smile.
Step 1: Initial Consultation (Week 1)
Your journey begins with a comprehensive exam and consultation with our experienced oral surgeon, Dr. George Tunder. We’ll review your medical history, take 3D CBCT scans, and assess your jawbone structure.
If necessary, we’ll discuss procedures such as tooth extractions or bone grafting.
Cone Beam CT scans are considered a best practice in implant planning, as they provide detailed anatomical data critical for safe, accurate placement [1].
Step 2: Tooth Extraction (If Needed) – Week 1–2
If you have a damaged or decayed tooth that needs to be removed, we may schedule an extraction. In some cases, implants can be placed immediately after the extraction, depending on bone integrity and infection status.
Step 3: Bone Grafting (If Needed) – Week 2–12
If there isn’t enough healthy bone to support the implant, we may recommend bone grafting. This allows new bone to grow and creates a strong foundation for the implant.
Healing from a bone graft can take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks before implant placement.
Studies show that grafting increases implant success rates in cases with insufficient bone volume [2].
Step 4: Implant Placement – Week 8–14
Once the area is ready, the implant is surgically inserted into the jawbone. This quick outpatient procedure typically takes less than an hour per implant and is done under local anesthesia or IV sedation.
Step 5: Osseointegration – Months 2–6
After placement, the implant begins to integrate with your jawbone. This critical phase, known as osseointegration, typically takes 3 to 6 months.
During this time, your body forms a strong bond with the implant, giving it the same stability as a natural tooth root.
Research confirms that osseointegration is essential for the long-term success of dental implants [3].
Step 6: Abutment Placement – Month 5–7
Once osseointegration is complete, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant. This part will support your crown, bridge, or denture.
Some patients receive a healing abutment at the time of implant surgery, which can reduce the need for a second procedure.
Step 7: Final Restoration – Month 6–8
After the gums have healed around the abutment, your permanent crown or prosthesis is custom-designed to match your surrounding teeth. It’s then secured onto the implant, completing your new smile.
CAD/CAM technology allows for highly aesthetic, natural-looking restorations that blend seamlessly with real teeth [4].
Optional Step: Immediate Load Implants
In select cases, patients may qualify for immediate load implants (same-day teeth), where the crown or denture is placed right after surgery. This option is ideal for those with adequate bone and strong initial implant stability.
Total Timeline: ~6–8 Months (On Average)
| Phase | Timeframe |
| Consultation | Week 1 |
| Extraction/Grafting | Week 1–12 (if needed) |
| Implant Placement | Week 8–14 |
| Healing & Osseointegration | Months 2–6 |
| Abutment & Crown | Months 6–8 |
Final Thoughts
Though the process may take several months, the results are well worth the wait. Dental implants offer unmatched durability, aesthetics, and function. At Montour Oral Surgery, we’ll walk you through each step to ensure a smooth, stress-free experience.
References:
- Scarfe, W. C., & Farman, A. G. (2008). What is Cone-Beam CT and How Does it Work? Dental Clinics of North America, 52(4), 707–730.
- Urban, I. A., & Lozada, J. L. (2014). Vertical ridge augmentation in the atrophic posterior mandible: A review of literature and a technique. Implant Dentistry, 23(4), 375–381.
- Brånemark, P. I., et al. (1977). Osseointegrated implants in the treatment of the edentulous jaw. Scandinavian Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 11(Suppl 16), 1–132.
- Reich, S., et al. (2011). Clinical fit of all-ceramic crowns fabricated using CAD/CAM technology. Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, 106(6), 346–354.
