This post explains the steps in dental implant placement and what to expect if you’re planning care by Jacksonville. You’ll learn each stage, a realistic timeline, common outcomes, and simple next steps to move forward with confidence.
What are dental implants and who can benefit?
Dental implants are small titanium posts placed in the jaw to replace missing teeth. They act like natural tooth roots and hold crowns, bridges, or dentures. Compared with bridges or removable dentures, implants preserve bone, feel more stable, and often improve chewing and speech.
Good candidates are adults with healthy gums and bone or those willing to have preparatory treatments like grafting. People choose implants to replace one tooth, several teeth, or a full arch when they want a long-term, natural-feeling solution.
Overview: The main steps in dental implant placement
Here’s a short preview so you know the flow before details.
- Consultation and digital evaluation
- Preparatory treatments (if needed)
- Implant surgery: placement of the implant
- Healing and osseointegration
- Abutment placement and final restoration
- Aftercare and long-term maintenance
The consultation and digital evaluation
Medical and dental history review
The first visit focuses on your health, medications, habits like smoking, and dental goals. The team will discuss your expectations, medical risks, and any conditions that affect healing.
Digital imaging and intraoral scanning
Advanced imaging (CBCT) and intraoral scans map your jaw, nerves, and sinuses. This digital planning shows precise implant locations, helps pick the right size, and reduces surprises during surgery. Scans also speed up crown design and improve fit and esthetics.
Preparatory treatments
Tooth extraction and site preparation
If a damaged tooth must come out, the dentist removes it and cleans the site. Sometimes an implant can be placed the same day; other times the site needs to heal a few weeks first.
Bone grafts and sinus lifts (if needed)
If bone is thin or missing, grafting rebuilds volume so the implant has solid support. In the upper back jaw, a sinus lift may be needed. These procedures add healing time—often a few months—before implant placement.
Implant surgery: placement of the implant
On the surgery day, local anesthesia and optional sedation keep you comfortable. The surgeon places the titanium implant into the jaw using the treatment plan from your scans. Many practices now use an on-site surgical suite for safer, more convenient care and to keep everything in one location.
Sutures may be used and a temporary tooth can be provided if needed for appearance and function during healing.
Healing and osseointegration
Osseointegration is when bone fuses to the implant. This usually takes 3–6 months depending on location and whether grafting was done. During this time expect some tenderness, soft food recommendations, and follow-up visits. Temporary restorations help with chewing and looks while the implant integrates.
Abutment placement and final restoration
After healing, the dentist attaches an abutment (a connector) to the implant and takes impressions or scans for the final crown, bridge, or denture. Final restorations use materials like porcelain or zirconia for a natural look. Before finishing, your provider checks bite, fit, and esthetics to ensure comfort and function.
Aftercare, follow-up, and long-term maintenance
Good care helps implants last. Brush twice daily, floss or use interdental brushes, and keep regular dental checkups. Expect a few short follow-up visits after surgery and routine cleanings every 3–6 months depending on your needs. Watch for signs that need attention: persistent pain, swelling, loose restorations, or changes in bite.
Common risks, timeline, and cost considerations
Risks are low but can include infection, nerve irritation, or implant failure. The overall timeline from consult to final restoration commonly ranges from 3 months to a year, depending on grafting and healing. Costs vary with the number of implants, materials, and any extra procedures; many practices offer financing to spread payments.
Choosing a provider for the steps in dental implant placement by Jacksonville
When evaluating providers for the steps in dental implant placement in Jacksonville, look for digital imaging, an on-site surgical suite, and an experienced surgical team. West Dentistry offers these features: Dr. Victor Erminy provides on-site oral surgery, the practice uses CBCT and intraoral scanning for precise planning, and the integrated surgical suite lets you get coordinated care without multiple referrals. Their team focuses on comfort, predictable esthetics, and clear communication about timing and costs.
If you’re ready to learn your personal timeline and options, schedule a consult or an online visit with West Dentistry to discuss next steps and financing.