If you’re asking “what is the process for a dental implant,” it’s a step-by-step journey from consultation to the final crown. Most patients move through planning, any needed preparatory care, the implant surgery, a healing phase where the implant bonds to bone, and then the attachment of the abutment and final crown.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a titanium post placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. Patients choose implants to restore chewing, improve speech, and get a natural-looking smile. Implants are durable and often last many years with good care.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Treatment Planning
At your first visit the dentist reviews medical and dental history, performs an exam, and discusses your goals. Expect a discussion of options, timelines, and whether one implant, several, or a full-arch solution fits your needs.
Step 2: Advanced Imaging and Digital Planning
CBCT Scans
A CBCT (3D) scan maps your bone, tooth roots, and nerve pathways. This helps plan a safe implant position and avoid vital structures during surgery.
Digital Impressions (Primescan) and Virtual Treatment Plans
Goop-free digital scans with Primescan capture precise 3D data. Virtual planning and surgical guides let the team place implants predictably and align the final crown for the best fit and function.
Step 3: Preparatory Treatments (If Needed)
Some patients need extra steps before implant placement, like extracting a damaged tooth, bone grafting to build bone, or a sinus lift for upper back teeth. These procedures create a strong foundation for the implant and improve long-term success.
Step 4: Implant Placement Surgery
During surgery a small incision exposes the bone and the implant is placed. Procedures can be done with local anesthesia or IV sedation in a fully equipped surgical suite. Most placements are quick, and your team will explain recovery steps beforehand.
Step 5: Healing and Osseointegration
Over weeks to months the implant fuses to the bone in a process called osseointegration. Expect some swelling and mild discomfort early on. Maintain gentle oral hygiene, avoid hard foods at first, and watch for excessive pain or prolonged swelling as signs to call your dentist.
Step 6: Abutment and Digital Impressions for the Crown
An abutment connects the implant to the crown. Your dentist will take digital scans to design the final restoration. Technologies like Primemill can mill a precise crown quickly, shortening the time between abutment and final tooth.
Step 7: Final Crown Placement and Aftercare
At the final visit the crown is adjusted for fit, bite, and color, then secured to the abutment. Long-term care includes regular brushing, flossing around the implant, and routine dental checkups every 6 months or as recommended.
Risks, Success Rates, and What Affects Outcomes
Risks include infection, implant failure, or nerve irritation, but success rates are high—often above 95% with good planning and hygiene. Factors that improve outcomes include strong bone, good oral hygiene, non-smoking, and careful surgical planning.
Costs, Insurance, and Financing Options
Costs, Insurance, and Financing Options cover the implant, abutment, crown, any grafting, and surgical fees. Many dental plans limit coverage for implants; ask about payment plans or third-party financing to spread costs.
Why Choose Harmon Dental Center for Your Implant Care
Dr. Bradley Harmon, DDS (with honors), combines advanced training and a compassionate approach. The office offers on-site implant lab, CBCT, Primescan, Primemill, in-house 3D printers, and a fully equipped surgical suite—allowing efficient, same-day workflows and predictable results.
Next Steps / Call to Action
To learn if implants are right for you, schedule a consultation to review your medical history, imaging, and a personalized treatment plan. Contact Harmon Dental Center to get started.
