What actually happens during implant placement — a step-by-step guide

Before you arrive

You'll have been given clear pre-treatment instructions at your consultation. For most single implant placements, no special preparation is needed beyond eating normally beforehand. If you've been prescribed antibiotics, you'll have started these the day before.

Arriving at the practice

You'll be welcomed by our nurse and taken through a brief pre-treatment check — blood pressure, confirming medical history, answering any last-minute questions. There's no rush.

Local anaesthetic

The area is numbed using local anaesthetic injections. This takes 3–5 minutes and is the most uncomfortable part of the procedure for most patients — comparable to a standard dental injection. Once numb, you'll feel nothing sharp.

The placement itself

A small incision is made in the gum to access the jawbone. A precise channel is prepared using a series of drills — you will hear and feel this but it should not be painful. The titanium implant is then placed into the channel and the gum is closed with a small suture.

For a single implant, this typically takes 45–75 minutes. For multiple implants or a full arch, the session is longer and may be split across appointments.

Immediately after

You'll rest for a few minutes, have a brief check with our nurse, and receive written aftercare instructions. Most patients feel well enough to drive home (though we recommend someone accompanies you for your first appointment).

The healing phase

Over the next 8–16 weeks, the implant fuses with your jawbone — osseointegration. You'll have a temporary restoration if needed so the gap isn't visible. Mild swelling and tenderness for 2–5 days is normal. Most patients return to work the following day.

The final restoration

Once the implant has fully integrated, an abutment is attached and your custom-made crown is fitted. This is straightforward and usually requires no anaesthetic. The result: a permanent, natural-looking tooth.