Are your teeth becoming weak, or do you struggle to chew, bite or speak because of missing teeth? If so, it may be time to consider dental implants. Dental implants are a safe, reliable way to restore your smile and the function of your teeth without relying on removable dentures.
Medically reviewed by Albin Tahiri, oral surgeon · Last updated: July 2026
Quick takeaways
- Dental implants are artificial titanium tooth roots placed in the jawbone to replace missing teeth.
- Treatment usually runs across two stages over several months, so the bone can heal and fuse with the implant.
- A 3D scan – and, where needed, a bone graft – is assessed before surgery.
- The procedure is carried out under anaesthetic, so it should not be painful.
- Once healed, implant-supported teeth are as strong as natural teeth.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots inserted into the jawbone. The implant acts as a base that holds the replacement tooth in place, working much like a natural tooth root. The result is an artificial tooth that looks like a natural tooth and performs perfectly, even when you eat and speak.
What is the implant insertion procedure?
There are several stages to placing a dental implant. We explain each one below so you know what to expect.
Initial assessment
Your dentist or oral surgeon first carries out a thorough examination to check the state of your jawbone and oral health and to plan the best approach for your implant. This assessment includes X-rays, impressions of your teeth and matching the colour of your teeth so the implant looks as natural as possible. The dentist also reviews your full dental and medical history.
At OrthoDental, we give you a comprehensive consultation and answer all of your questions. We will ask about your general health and any medication you take, and together we will decide how many teeth it makes sense to replace with implants.
3D dental scan
To assess your case, OrthoDental takes a 3D dental X-ray of your jaw, focusing on the area where a tooth or teeth are missing. This shows the dentist how much jawbone is available for the implant. The scan also locates structures such as sinuses and nerves that must be avoided during surgery to prevent damage.
When is a bone graft needed beforehand?
If your X-rays show there is not enough bone in your jaw to hold the implant, a bone graft is arranged first. Without enough bone, the implant may fail or be unable to withstand the forces of chewing.
What to expect with a bone graft
A bone graft usually involves taking bone from another part of your jaw, hip or chin and adding it to your jaw, so the implant can later be anchored deep in the bone like a real tooth root. If this step is needed before the implant procedure, it typically takes four to twelve months for the grafted bone to be ready for implantation.
Traditional implant insertion procedure
The traditional procedure involves two treatments, three to six months apart. The gap allows for proper recovery and healing.
The first treatment is carried out in these steps:
Initial incision
The dentist makes a small cut in the gum where the implant will be placed. This gives access to the area where your missing teeth were.
Drilling
Through this incision, the dentist drills into the bone and places the implant. The gum is then stitched and left to heal. The procedure is done under anaesthetic, so you do not feel any pain.
Healing period
A few months of healing follow before you are ready for the second part of the procedure.
The second part of the procedure
Implant opening
If the implant has healed under the oral mucosa, an implant-opening step is carried out after about three months. Under local anaesthetic, the dentist cuts just the mucous membrane above the implant and removes the small cover screw. A healing cap is then fitted, extending above the gum, ready to connect the implant to the final restoration.
Removing the healing cap
The cap encourages the surrounding gum to heal into shape. After a few weeks it is removed, and the final part of the procedure can begin.
Installing the abutment
The dentist screws an abutment onto the implant. This connector holds the crown securely so it will not loosen under biting forces.
Fitting the crown
After taking impressions, your dental surgeon designs a restoration that fits your existing teeth. In the final stage, the crown is placed on the abutment. Matching the crown’s colour to your natural teeth creates the most natural appearance possible.
Healing and implant integration
While the implant is settling under the gum, a temporary removable or fixed restoration can be worn. During healing and integration, the implant site should be free of swelling, pain and any discharge from the overlying gum. If that is not the case, tell your dentist straight away.
Recovery after implant insertion
Most people need a little time to recover fully after implant surgery. Mild pain and discomfort are common, along with some gum swelling, tenderness around the implant and slight bleeding. Symptoms ease day by day and should not last long. If they get worse, your dentist may prescribe painkillers.
Stick to soft foods immediately after surgery and keep ice packs handy to reduce swelling. Avoid tobacco, which raises the risk of infection and stains your teeth.
Follow the post-operative instructions closely to heal faster. Once the implant has settled and recovery is complete, you can eat as normal – implant-supported teeth are just as strong as natural teeth. The NHS notes that, with good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, implants can last for many years.
We have also prepared a quick recovery guide for you. Read our full advice on recovery after a dental implant.
Frequently asked questions
The surgery is carried out under local or general anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Mild discomfort, swelling or minor bleeding afterwards is normal and usually settles within a few days.
The traditional approach uses two treatments three to six months apart, with healing time in between. From the first assessment to the final crown, the process often spans several months.
A graft is needed when X-rays show there is not enough jawbone to hold the implant securely. Grafting can add roughly four to twelve months before the implant can be placed.
Eat soft foods at first, use ice packs to reduce swelling, avoid tobacco and follow your dentist’s post-operative instructions. Report any worsening pain, swelling or discharge to your dentist.
Ready to restore your smile?
Book a first exam at OrthoDental and we will assess whether dental implants are right for you.
Article author
Gordana Čižmek
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