Surgically placed dental implants are titanium posts inserted into the jaw to replace missing tooth roots. They help people with one or more missing teeth, loose dentures, or teeth that can’t be saved. This guide gives a clear, step-by-step look at the process, what healing involves, common risks, and practical next steps so you know what to expect.
What “surgically placed” means
When a dentist says an implant is surgically placed, it means a minor outpatient procedure is used to insert a titanium screw into the jawbone. It’s done under local anesthesia, and you can often choose sedation for extra comfort. The implant acts as an artificial tooth root that bonds with bone, which is why surgery is required instead of a simple filling or crown.
Surgery is needed because the implant must be anchored below the gum line into bone. A crown or filling only fixes what sits above the gum; it can’t replace the root or restore long-term stability the way an implant does.
Step-by-step: before, during, and after
Before the surgery
Preparation includes a consultation and oral exam, plus X-rays or a CBCT scan to check bone and anatomy. Your provider will create a treatment plan and discuss timing. If a damaged tooth must be removed or if bone is too thin, extraction or bone grafting may be required first.
- Consultation and imaging (X-ray/CBCT)
- Medical and dental history review
- Possible extraction or bone grafting before implant surgery
During the procedure (how the implant is surgically placed)
On the day, local anesthesia numbs the area; sedation may be available. The dentist makes a small incision in the gum, drills a pilot hole in the jawbone, and places the titanium implant screw. The gum is then closed with sutures. The whole process is usually under an hour for a single implant, though timing varies with complexity.
Because the implant is placed into bone, the step is inherently surgically performed — precise work with drills and guided tools to protect surrounding nerves and sinuses.
Healing and osseointegration
After placement, the key healing step is osseointegration: the bone grows tightly around the implant. This typically takes 2–6 months depending on the area and your health. During that time you may get a temporary crown, bridge, or removable denture so you can eat and speak comfortably.
Final restoration
Once the implant is stable, your dentist attaches an abutment and then places the final crown, bridge, or fixed denture. The final tooth is matched for color and bite so it looks and functions like a natural tooth.
Recovery, risks, and what to expect
Common post-op symptoms include mild swelling, bruising, light bleeding, and discomfort for a few days. Home care helps: use ice packs for swelling, eat soft foods, take prescribed pain relievers or OTC meds, and keep the area clean with gentle brushing and salt rinses as instructed.
- Typical recovery: most normal activities return in 24–72 hours; full healing over months
- Home care: cold packs, soft diet, follow medication and oral hygiene instructions
Possible risks include infection, implant failure (if osseointegration doesn’t occur), and rare nerve or sinus complications. Seek prompt care for heavy bleeding, fever, uncontrolled pain, numbness that won’t fade, or if the implant feels loose.
Choosing who should place your implant and next steps
Look for a provider with proven implant experience and training — for example, a dentist or oral surgeon who places implants regularly and uses modern imaging like CBCT. Ask about sedation options, guided surgery or 3D planning, success rates, and follow-up care. Don’t hesitate to request before-and-after photos and patient references.
If you’re considering surgically placed dental implants, schedule a consult to review your case. A consult will cover imaging, treatment timing, costs, and whether implants are the right choice for your oral health and lifestyle.
