The Dental Implant Timeline

The time it takes to place a single-tooth implant is usually about 6-7 months, and it can take up to 12 months or longer if you require additional surgeries before your implant is placed. In this guide from Precision Dental, we’ll discuss the steps and the timeline that you can expect if you want dental implants in Bowling Green.

1. Initial Consultation & Implant Plan Development

To begin, you will need to see Dr. Bryan Packard for a consultation. He will determine if implants are a good option for restoring your smile, and approve you for treatment. Then, he will begin developing your implant placement plan using advanced computer tools and programs to ensure a great result.

(Optional) Necessary Pre-Treatment Surgeries

In some cases, additional surgeries may be needed before your implant placement. If you have a weak jaw bone, for example, you may need a bone graft to replace missing bone material and strengthen the jaw to prepare for an implant. Dr. Packard will discuss these surgeries with you and schedule them after your initial consultation, if necessary.

2. Surgical Implant Placement

A few weeks after your initial consultation, you’ll come to Precision Dental to have your implant placed by Dr. Packard. Following your implant plan closely, he will create an opening in the gum and jaw tissue, place your implant, and sew the area shut to promote proper healing.

3. Recovery & Osseointegration

You’ll be sent home with instructions to follow as you recover. It will take 1-2 weeks to heal from your surgery, but it takes 3-6 months or longer for your implant to permanently attach itself to your jaw bone. You will be required to visit Precision Dental for several appointments during this time to track your progress.

4. Building The Implant Restoration

During your visits at our office, Dr. Packard will also take impressions, images, and measurements of your implant site and your mouth. This information will be sent to our partner dental lab, where an implant restoration such as a dental crown will be made to fit into your mouth perfectly. 

5. Abutment Placement

Once your mouth has healed, a few weeks before your implant restoration is placed, you'll need to come to Precision Dental to have an “abutment” placed in your mouth. This is the small attachment that will connect your dental crown to the implant, and it’s an essential component of your new tooth.

6. Final Placement Of The Restoration 

Once your abutment has been placed, you will come in for your last appointment.  Dr. Packard will check and adjust the fit of your crown, then bond it in place permanently once it looks perfect. You’ll be sent home with a bright, brilliant new smile! 

The Implant Treatment Process At Our Office 

This is a simplified overview, but this dental implant timeline will give you a good idea of what to expect during your treatment at Precision Dental. To learn more, get an appointment, and get started with the implant process, just contact us online or give us a call at 270-715-9214. We’re always accepting new patients in Bowling Green. 

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