If you're considering a dental implant, it's normal to feel unsure about what the entire process involves. You may be wondering how long it will take, whether it’s painful, and what kind of care you’ll need after the procedure. The truth is, dental implants are a reliable and long-lasting solution for missing teeth but they do involve several important steps. In this guide, we’ll walk through what to expect before, during, and after a dental implant to help you feel informed and confident at every stage.
Before the Implant
The success of a dental implant depends heavily on how well things are planned in advance. Before anything is placed in your mouth, there’s a series of assessments and preparations.
1. Dental Consultation and Health Review
Your dentist will begin with a comprehensive oral assessment, which includes:
Checking the condition of your gums and surrounding teeth
Analysing X-rays or digital scans to assess bone density
Reviewing your medical history for any conditions that might affect healing
You might not realise it, but your overall health plays a significant role in how well your body will accept an implant.
Factors your dentist may consider:
Smoking habits
Diabetes (especially if uncontrolled)
Medications that impact bone density
Recent infections or oral surgeries
If your dentist feels you're a suitable candidate, you’ll be given a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
2. Bone Health and Grafting (If Needed)
A key component of successful implants is having enough healthy jawbone to support the implant.
If bone loss has occurred something that can happen naturally after tooth loss—your dentist may recommend a bone graft. This procedure builds up the jaw area to create a stronger foundation for the implant.
Things to note about bone grafting:
It may delay the implant by a few months to allow healing
Not all patients need it
It’s a routine and safe part of implant dentistry
At this stage, if you experience pain, swelling, or infection, don’t wait. An emergency dentist in Barnsley can help keep everything on track and ready for the next step.
3. Tooth Extraction (If Applicable)
If the damaged tooth is still in place, it will need to be extracted before the implant can be inserted. Some patients have their tooth removed and the implant placed during the same visit, depending on healing ability and bone condition.
During the Implant
This part of the process is often the most anticipated, but many patients are surprised by how straightforward and painless it can be.
1. Preparing for the Procedure
Here’s what usually happens just before the surgery:
You’ll receive local anaesthetic (or sedation, if required)
The area will be completely numb
The dentist will clean and prepare the site for placement
Once you're comfortable, the actual surgery begins.
2. Placing the Implant
The dentist will:
Make a small incision in the gum
Drill a precise hole into the jawbone
Insert the titanium implant (which acts like a tooth root)
Secure the implant and close the gum tissue over or around it
The entire procedure often takes less than an hour for a single implant.
There’s minimal bleeding, and thanks to modern techniques, discomfort is kept to a minimum. Most patients are surprised at how smooth the experience is.
3. Immediate Aftercare
Once you go home, healing begins. You’ll receive instructions on:
Taking prescribed painkillers or antibiotics
Using saltwater rinses
Avoiding certain foods (crunchy, spicy, very hot or cold)
Managing swelling with ice packs
Normal side effects may include:
Minor bleeding
Swelling around the gums or face
Mild bruising on the cheeks
If symptoms worsen or infection is suspected, it’s best to contact a dentist for immediate advice or treatment.
4. Healing and Osseointegration
The titanium implant now begins a process called osseointegration, where the jawbone naturally fuses around it. This typically takes between 8 and 16 weeks.
During this time, you’ll be advised to:
Eat soft, balanced meals
Avoid chewing directly on the implant site
Maintain excellent oral hygiene
Attend follow-up appointments
Once healing is complete, the implant will be strong enough to support a dental crown.
After the Implant
The final stage is fitting your permanent crown and getting used to your new tooth.
1. Fitting the Abutment and Crown
The abutment is a small post that connects the implant to your crown. It’s placed in a short procedure where the gum is reopened, and then allowed to heal again for 1–2 weeks. Once healed, your dentist will take impressions for the crown.
What to expect with the final crown:
Custom-designed to match your natural teeth in colour, shape, and size
Can be made from porcelain, ceramic, or other tooth-like materials
Attached securely with dental cement or a screw-retained method
Once fitted, it will look and feel like a natural tooth.
2. Living with Your Implant
With your crown in place, daily life becomes much easier.
Benefits include:
Ability to chew naturally
No slipping or discomfort
Preserved bone and facial structure
Improved speech and confidence
You can smile, talk, and eat as if the implant were your own tooth.
That said, implants still require care. Even though the implant can’t decay, the surrounding gums are still vulnerable.
3. Ongoing Care and Maintenance
To keep your implant in top shape, you should:
Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
Floss daily, especially around the crown
Use an antibacterial mouthwash
Avoid habits like nail-biting or chewing ice
Schedule routine cleanings and exam
Regular visits will help your dentist catch any early signs of inflammation or damage. If you ever feel discomfort, sensitivity, or mobility in the crown, reach out to an emergency dentist in Barnsley immediately.
A professionally placed dental implant Barnsley can last for 20 years or more with proper care, sometimes even a lifetime.
Conclusion
At EDB, we know a dental implant is more than just a fix, it's a transformation. That’s why we walk you through each step with compassion, clear guidance, and unwavering support. From the first consultation to the final crown and beyond, our focus is your comfort, confidence, and long-term oral health. Whether it’s replacing one tooth or rebuilding your smile, our skilled team makes sure your implant journey is simple, safe, and successful one smile at a time.
