Implant Treatment Outline

There are several approaches that may be used in implant placement, depending on the patient's particular needs. Generally, an implant restoration consists of three phases: (1) placement of the implant itself, (2) following implant healing, insertion of a post or other fixture that emerges through the gum, and (3) seating the final crown or prosthesis. Below is an example of a typical treatment sequence for a common restoration, the single tooth replacement. (Click here to see Single Tooth Implant-Clinical Case).

Phase One (Diagnosis and Treatment Planning)

1. Study model
2. x-rays and CAT Scan
3. Careful planning and coordination with the restorative dentist
4. Pre-surgical consultatoin

Phase Two (Surgeon)

Appointment 1
Examination and treatment planning

Appointment 2
Placement of implant

Appointment 3 (10-14 days)
Sutures removed

Appointment 4 (4 weeks)
Site examined to assure proper healing

Appointment 5 (2-4 months)
Implant exposed, if submerged at the insertion appointment

Appointment 6 (1-3 weeks after exposure)
Study models taken that record exact location of implant

When the study models are poured they produce an exact replica of the patient's jaws, with the implant simulation in place. Using the models, the dentist orders the exact size of post or fixture that will be attached to the implant and used to hold the restoration (such as a crown). The surgeon or the restorative dentist may perform this step.

Phase Three (Restorative Dentist)

The restorative dentist can use the study models, with the post attached to the simulated implant, to analyze the case before the patient is seen. The post may be contoured to the desired shape on the models, so only minimal refinements are needed when seated in the mouth. 

Appointment 7
Post seated permanently in the implant, and shape refined
Temporary crown placed on post
(Final impressions for the crown may be taken at this appointment)

Appointment 8 (if needed)
Final impression for crown taken and sent to lab

Phase Four (Restorative Dentist)

Appointment 9
Final crown seated and occlusion (bite) refined

There can be a number of variations in treatment. Under ideal circumstances it may be possible to place the implant without requiring a second surgical procedure. In these cases a healing cap may be placed at the surgical appointment, negating the need for the secondary implant exposure surgery (Appointment 5). Conversely, surgery may reveal less bone than expected, and implant placement may be delayed while more bone is generated.

Click here for more information on implant treatment outline from the American Academy of Periodontology.