The implant, the abutment and the tooth: three separate parts
An implant is an artificial root, usually made of titanium, placed in the jawbone. Once integrated, it supports a crown, a bridge or a denture. The abutment connects the implant to the restoration; the healing screw, when used, is a temporary part.
The aim is to regain comfortable chewing and a restoration that suits your smile. It can avoid preparing the neighbouring teeth for a bridge, but requires surgery and long-term maintenance.
Which solution for your situation?
Your pathway, from assessment to prosthesis
- Assessing your indicationExamination of the teeth, gums and bite, medical history, current medication and expectations. The CBCT (3D scan) and digital impression are used as the assessment requires.
- Preparing a joint planThe surgeon and the dentist making the prosthesis define the future teeth, then the position of the implants and any need for grafting.
- Performing the surgeryPlacement under local anaesthesia; sedation or general anaesthesia is discussed when the indication justifies it. Guided or navigated surgery can assist the procedure.
- Letting the implant integrateOsseointegration usually takes 3 to 4 months, sometimes longer. This period is adapted to the bone quality and any associated procedures.
- Restoring and maintainingImpression, try-in and fitting of the crown or prosthesis. If your dentist referred you, you go back to them for this phase and for maintenance.
Immediate implant and temporary tooth: two different decisions
Placing an implant on the day of extraction does not necessarily mean fixing a tooth on the same day. Immediate placement depends on the condition of the site and whether the implant can be stabilised. Immediate loading also requires favourable prosthetic and mechanical conditions.
A temporary tooth may be considered during healing, in a form suited to your situation. The final timeline is set after the assessment and may be adjusted at the time of surgery.
Benefits, alternatives and risks to discuss
A bridge on natural teeth, a removable denture or, in some situations, not replacing the tooth at all may be alternatives. The choice depends on the remaining teeth, your health and your preferences.
Risks include pain, swelling, bleeding, infection, failure to integrate and, depending on the site, nerve injury or a sinus complication. In the long term, peri-implant inflammation or a prosthetic problem may require treatment.
Smoking, poor oral hygiene, active periodontitis and some illnesses or medications affect the risk. Mention in particular diabetes and any anti-resorptive or anticoagulant treatment. Do not stop any medication on your own initiative.
A quote and follow-up prepared before you decide
The quote sets out the planned stages: imaging, any bone preparation, implants and prosthetic restoration. Reimbursement depends on your situation and the conditions in force; it should be checked before treatment.
How long implants last also depends on hygiene and check-ups. A restoration may need maintenance, repair or replacement over time.
Read the information and consent document · See the frequently asked questions
This general information helps you prepare for your consultation. Treatment, its risks and aftercare instructions are adapted to your situation by the surgeon.