Prior to the dental implant procedure, a thorough examination will be conducted. The dentist will examine the teeth and jawbone to assess whether the gums are healthy enough and if the patient has enough bone to properly support an implant. X-rays will be taken to help the dentist develop impressions of the mouth to ensure replacement teeth fit accurately and naturally. A local anesthetic can be given prior to the implant to minimize pain and discomfort. The dentist will place the small titanium post implant into the missing tooth’s bone socket. During the course of the jawbone healing, it will grow around the implant.

The jawbone healing process can take 3 – 6 months as it lays a strong foundation for the replacement tooth to be placed. At this time, a small abutment, or connector post, is attached to the implant so that a new tooth, called a crown, can be placed later.