How long does the implant process take?
The process of replacing missing teeth with implants can take up to nine months to complete. Each patient heals differently and the variety of solutions means that treatment times will vary. The first stage of treatment involves the surgical placement of the implant/s into your bone. Healing following placement can take between 3-4 months during which time the implant fuses to the bone, producing a rigid connection in the first 6 weeks and then maturing over the next 6-9 weeks.
The second stage of the treatment involves the fabrication and fitting of the replacement teeth. Depending on the complexity of the restoration, this can take between 6-8weeks to complete. In certain specific circumstances, if bone quality is good and the biomechanics of the case permit, implants can be placed and temporary replacement teeth fitted in one appointment. The final teeth are completed some three months later, once implant healing and fusion are confirmed.
There are so many different scenarios in which implants can be used and each has its own treatment process and timing. A Prosthodontist should be able to outline all the options available to you and tailor a treatment that delivers your new teeth in the shortest possible time without compromising the end result.
