Single Tooth Implant: Step-By-Step Procedure

Step 1 — Consultation and 3D CBCT scan (day 0)

We examine the site, take a 3D scan showing bone height, width, nerve position, and sinus proximity, and plan virtually. You see the plan on-screen before anything is scheduled.

Duration: 45–60 minutes.

Step 2 — Tooth extraction (if still present)

If the problem tooth is still in place, we extract it atraumatically — often placing a small bone graft into the socket at the same time (socket preservation). Healing period: 2–4 months before implant placement.

Some cases allow immediate implant placement at the time of extraction — we'll discuss if this is suitable for you.

Step 3 — Implant placement (surgery day)

Duration: 30–60 minutes under local anaesthetic (sedation available if you prefer).

• Small gum flap raised at the site
• Pilot drill followed by sequentially wider drills, cooled with saline
• Titanium implant threaded into place — measured torque confirms primary stability
• Healing abutment placed on top, or implant buried under the gum to heal
• Single suture or two

You leave with the implant integrating silently under the gum. If you had a temporary tooth made, this is placed today or within 48 hours.

Step 4 — Healing (3–4 months)

The implant fuses with bone through osseointegration — a biological process you don't feel. Regular brushing continues. No special restrictions other than chewing on the opposite side of any temporary that isn't cemented to teeth.

Step 5 — Uncovering (if buried)

A 15-minute visit. The implant is exposed through the gum, a healing abutment placed, and gums shaped around it. 2–3 weeks of gum maturation follows.

Step 6 — Impression / scan for the crown

A digital scan of the implant and surrounding teeth. Takes 15 minutes. The lab (or in-house CAD/CAM) fabricates the custom abutment and crown.

Duration: 1–2 weeks of lab work.

Step 7 — Abutment and crown fitting

The abutment is screwed into the implant, then the crown is cemented or screw-retained onto the abutment. Bite adjusted. You leave with a permanent tooth.

Duration: 30–60 minutes.

Step 8 — Post-op check

A short visit 1 week later to verify bite and contact with adjacent teeth. Oral hygiene instructions for maintenance.

Total timeline

• Straightforward case: 3.5–4 months from surgery to final crown
• With socket preservation first: 6–8 months total
• With major graft first: 9–12 months total

Pain expectations

Most patients rate implant surgery itself as less uncomfortable than an extraction. Over-the-counter paracetamol handles post-op discomfort for most people. Swelling is minimal for single-tooth cases.

Days off work

• Surgery day: yes
• Day 1 post-op: usually yes
• Day 2 onward: back to normal (desk-based work especially)

Hard physical work is best delayed 2–3 days.

References

• Academy of Osseointegration — Clinical protocols
• Journal of Oral Implantology