Dental Implant Full Timeline: How Long From Consultation to Final Tooth Placement

If you’re missing one or more teeth and considering dental implant treatment, you’re likely wondering: “How long will this take from start to finish?” At Springhurst Hills Dentistry in Louisville, Dr. Lan Tran walks patients through every phase of the process, so you’ll know what to expect—how long it takes, why it takes that long, and how your body’s healing plays into the timeline.

Step 1: Consultation & Planning

We begin with your initial visit. This includes reviewing your dental and medical history, taking digital scans and X-rays, examining your jawbone and gum health, and determining if implants are the right solution. If extractions or bone preparation are needed, we’ll build that into your plan.

Time needed: Usually one or two visits over a few weeks.

Step 2: Any Preparatory Work (if needed)

Some patients can move right into implant placement, but others may need:

• Tooth extraction, if the damaged tooth is still in place
• Bone grafting or sinus lift, to strengthen the jaw for implant support

These steps take additional time but are essential for long-term success.

Time needed: This stage can add 3 to 9 months of healing, depending on the procedures involved.

Step 3: Implant Placement Surgery

Once the foundation is ready, the implant is placed into the jawbone. This small titanium post acts as a replacement root. Then, your body does the hard work—healing and fusing the implant with the bone (a process called osseointegration).

Time needed: The surgery itself is typically completed in one visit, while healing lasts 3 to 6 months.

Step 4: Abutment & Final Restoration

When the implant has integrated with the bone, we attach a connector called an abutment, followed by the custom crown, bridge, or denture. Timing here depends on your healing and the number of teeth being replaced.

Time needed: Several weeks to a couple of months.

Step 5: Total Timeline—What to Expect

Here’s how long the overall process usually takes:

• In straightforward cases: 3 to 6 months from consultation to final placement
• In more complex cases (with bone grafting or multiple implants): 6 to 12 months or longer

Factors That Can Influence the Timeline

• Bone health – Strong, healthy bone shortens the process; grafting adds time
• Health and lifestyle – Conditions like diabetes or smoking can slow healing
• Number of implants – Full arch restorations take longer than a single tooth
• Aftercare – Following post-op instructions supports smooth healing

Why Patients Choose Springhurst Hills Dentistry

Dr. Tran and the team are experienced in guiding patients through each step with clarity and care. Whether you’re looking to replace one tooth or several, we’ll create a plan that matches your goals and timeline—and walk with you every step of the way.

Ready to Begin?

If you’ve been living with missing teeth or uncomfortable dentures, now’s a great time to explore implants. Schedule a consultation at Springhurst Hills Dentistry in Louisville. We’ll answer your questions, assess your needs, and help you plan for a confident, lasting smile.

Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0

Posted on behalf of Dr. Lan Tran, Springhurst Hills Dentistry