Dental Implants – How long does it take

Treatment time can vary greatly depending on your needs.

If you were to break your arm, the bone would take a few weeks to heal. Bone in the mouth is similar.  It usually but not always needs the same amount of time. The upper jaw usually takes a little longer due to softer bone. The lower jaw is usually very dense which speeds up the time frame.

Techniques such as “immediate implants” allow me to complete full mouth implants in one hour, sometime less. Each situation needs a separate evaluation. Some implants can be completed from start to finish in a single hour, while certain situations will require a few months of healing. Be assured that at no point in your treatment will you have no teeth. Temporary teeth are used to make sure you can smile with confidence until the final teeth are completed. At your first visit I will be able to give you an approximate timetable.

Traditionally, the procedure has been performed in two steps. The dentist began by placing the implant, which was left for from three to six months to heal and integrate with the jawbone. During the healing period, the patient was given a temporary denture until the permanent crown could be put in place.

I provide an alternative to the two-step method that allows you to have the implant placed in one single session. This new method has simplified the procedure for patients. The procedure chosen depends on several factors, such as your health, the number of teeth involved and which teeth are replaced. These factors will also determine the total number of visits.

Surgical Advances

My technique saves many months of healing that are typically associated with dental implants. Temporary teeth can be placed on the implants on the same day of the surgery. There are even many situations where the implants can be placed at the same time as a tooth extraction further minimizing the number of surgical procedures!; In fact, I am one of few dentists that can extract a molar tooth and replace it on the same day! Advances in dental implant technology have made it possible in select cases, to extract teeth, and place implants with crowns at one visit. This process, called “immediate loading” greatly simplifies the surgical process. Most patients experience minimal disruption in their daily life. In some cases where significant bone deterioration has occurred, we may have to delay placing the final teeth for 3-6 months.

A patient of mine is featured below.  She broke her front tooth and it was not savable. The next picture shows the SAME DAY extraction, implant and temporary crown. Hence to say she was very happy.  With this procedure there is literally no pain when done correctly. No incisions were made. The next picture is her final porcelain crown on the implant, four years after placement! I think it looks great and she is thrilled.  The final x-ray shows how the implant is encased by bone.

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2 - Final restoration in function for a minimum of one year 1-6-09

146 thoughts on “Dental Implants – How long does it take”

  1. In 2012 I had an implant screw placed where my second molar from the back was. It has been 6 years now and I have never been back to the dentist to complete the work and have a crown put on it. Could you please tell me if by waiting this long I have caused damage to the surrounding teeth or what are some of the complications for waiting so long.

    Reply
  2. Does the temporary teeth also look same like my other tooth . My dentist is not giving me temporary too because my gums are not develop or healed properly but i think after my gums property healed i can directly implant my teeth..is that true ??

    Reply
  3. I am 38 and had an implant put in a month ago on a front tooth with NO bone grafting. It was very easy with no issues. The dentist put on a temporary crown and wants me to wait 4 months before fitting me for a permanent. I went in for a check up and everything is healing really well. My teeth are really white and this temporary stands out because it does not match. If all continues to go well, is it possible for me to get fitted for my permanent at 3 months? The color of this temporary is driving me nuts!!

    Reply
    • Yes. Very likely as
      Long as implant had high “torque” and or “ISQ” at the time of placement. Ask your dentist.
      🙂
      There is more to it than just that but that is a very important issue along with the gums looking great at 3 months.

      Reply
      • I had all on 4 dental surgery 17 days ago,I had three teeth on the top and 5 teeth on the bottom extracted with bone grafting and temporary dentures placed,my mouth is still sore is this normal or should i be worried?

        Reply
        • Yikes 😳 unfortunately you did not have the real version of this procedure. If you did you would not have dentures. You would have had non-removable bridges placed on the implants within 24 hours of the surgery.

          Putting a denture on top of newly placed implant is one of the worst things that can be done.

          Most situations in my practice get teeth right away.

          My best advice for you would be to leave the dentures out as much as possible over the next several months

          Read this article to help get you up to speed on how this should go

          https://burbankdentalimplants.com/all-on-4-full-mouth-dental-implants/

          Reply
  4. Hi, I am 20 years old (turning 21 in 3 months). When I was fourteen, I had an accident which broke off my front left tooth very close to the gumline. I had a root canal done and had a crown put on. I recently found out I horizontally fractured the tooth, but it has not reached the root canal post yet. I must get an implant but my dentist said I have two options, as I am moving for work for 3 months in a few weeks. 1. Extract the tooth now and get an implant placed and wear a retainer with a false tooth until I come back and finish the process. 2. Wait until after in hopes that I don’t get an infection of any sort. My work requires me to interact with many people and talk so I was leaning towards waiting until I get back, but I also would just like to get it done as soon as possible so I’m in a sticky situation. What would you suggest?

    Reply
  5. Hello, I am 18 years old and I am in need of an implant for one of my upper front teeth. How long would the entire implant process take?

    Reply
    • More important than speed is your age. If you are an 18-year-old male I would likely wait until he you are a bit older to have an implant. Statistically you will grow slightly as your jaw develops. If possible wait until you are approximately 21 years old. In the past we use to place implants on younger patients but men in particular have late growth spurts. I know you do not want to hear any of this but it is important to understand that this is a very long term decision. Seek out the help of an expert and have this discussion.

      Reply
  6. Hi in 2013 teeth 7-10 were knocked out now I am about to get bone grafting done and implants about how long would it take to get the implants after the delayed grafting.

    Reply
  7. All my teeth are really bad especially my top jaw some have broken off and some have rotted away is it possible to replace with implants to give me back a smile and how long will it take

    Reply
    • Yes it is always doable. It can range from a single day procedure to leave with a temporary to a staged procedure requiring bone reconstruction. This could vary from just a few months to two years. You really need to be seen to be evaluated properly.

      Reply
  8. I am 60 years old having worn a denture to replace two front teeth knocked out when I was 11 years old. 16 years ago I asked my dentist about implants, he said my gums weren’t deep enough and would need bone grafts. I am now exploring implants again – any help/advice you can give me please?

    Reply
  9. I have had a upper broken bicuspid removed, the dental implant with some immediate bone grafting done, recheck and told to wait 2 mos. before going to general dentist for crown placement. My question is because of the cost, with no insurance, is it okay to wait 3 months instead of 2, will shifting take place? I think the cap thing is on it. Thanks for consideration.

    Reply
  10. Hello,

    What is the maximum amount of time you can wait between dental implant procedures? i.e. between the actual implant and the placement of the crown. I know they say between 3 and 6 months but is it bad if I wait fopr longer than that?

    Reply
    • It is not bad at all to wait additional time. The bone will become more dense. I would not let things go beyond approximately 9 to 12 months though as your teeth may shift and bone begins to deteriorate.

      Reply
  11. I had a broken tooth pulled and a graft layed. Getting it checked at 2.5 months to see if it is good to go he said that because I’m young (32) that should be enough time. When I get my post drilled, how long average is the wait time before the next step can happen? How long does it usually take to settle nicely into the upper jaw? Just curious my surgeon hasent mentioned the future details.

    Reply
    • I would wait longer if you had a bone graft. Typically 4 months is ideal but some take as long as 6 months. At only 2.5 months, the bone is immature. Bone grafting techniques and materials are vary, but if it were happening in my mouth

      Reply
      • Hey guys,

        If I need to get bracers due to one of my teeth thats too far back and won’t fit in to my upper jaw, is it easier to get it removed and another new one installed? Or is the bracers the better option?

        Reply
        • Braces are better to pull in your natural tooth. Hopefully you are less than 16 years old if that is the case. Tougher to do this in adults.

          Reply
  12. Hello I need sinus lift and bone grafts now. Going in for it in two weeks. Hoping it is not too painful as I can’t take pain meds. Sensitive stomach !
    Pray for me

    Reply
    • Excellent technique, skill and judgment are one of the huge factors besides experience that will help you reduce pain. I assume you’re seeing somebody who has done hundreds of these. Also I would strongly suggest IV sedation and a single low-dose intravenous and or intramuscular steroid.

      Most of my patients truly will take Tylenol or Advil for this procedure. Antibiotics are an absolute must for this procedure especially if it is a lateral window sinus graft

      Reply
      • Yes Iv sedation I’m getting and I believe decadron. He seems to have many credentials as an implant specialist plus he write a book and lectures as well. Am hoping it goes smoothly ! Thank u for always replying!

        Reply
  13. If this is available , why was I made to be, extremely embarrassed , & afraid to go out, I had no top teeth, for 3monthes . It was not the money, because we payed top rate. I have only six bottom teeth, but have really been put off by the pain, & time scale. May I say the Specilest I see , is very highly qualified .

    Reply
    • I have been undergoing ( implants) now for a year. Have been told , my bone graft has been successful . I now have to wait a further 4/5 months, before my ,permant teeth can be placed. As , if you say, this can be done, in a much shorter time, why was I left without teeth for 3 months, ( so very embaresing ). I have 6 bottom teeth, but am loathed to have more implants, because of the time and pain. May I say my specialist is highly qualified . Can you help with this, my dilemma. I live in London N21 1SB

      Reply
      • You must have had to have some extreme bone grafting to have to be forced to be without teeth all that time. This is very rare.

        It is only needed for titanium mesh bone grafts and huge block grafts.

        Your case must be unique!! Even sinus bone grafts don’t require you to be toothless during the process.

        Tell us more about the technique you had done.

        Reply
  14. Iam 24 years old girl.i have one implnted teeth on my upper jaws .it placed before 9 yeras ago.Now it has colur chenge what i do? if there any chance to falling out this.And in my lower jaws there is no 2 teeth so i placed teeth there by 6 unit.i have fare about this.my marriage will be on next month.i havent any confifence due to this .please help me and give proper advice.
    Thanku

    Reply
    • Just change the porcelain teeth if the implants are still good. This will make things look better. Congratulations on your marriage. 🙂

      Reply
  15. hi I’m a 16 year old girl. I have a single missing tooth on the right side of my mouth right next to the two front teeth. I had a retainer with a tooth built inside of it. I was really embarrassed of my missing tooth so I ate with my retainer so no one would notice. However, it was really uncomfortable so my dentist gave me a flipper and I have to wear the retainer at night. What age would I be able to get my implant?

    Reply
      • I am 30 years old and l went to a dental consultant for implants for my 2 missing teeth. The problem is like I have only 1 month of time to travel to abroad, dentist suggested me to fix the implant now and fix the crown after 1 year or later.

        Is this fine?

        Reply
  16. It is very happy to see this.me also like to do it mam.my marriage will be soon .so i have to make it fast.but it is time consuming…na

    Reply
  17. are there any dentist in Canada that do this i have a plate right now but it hurts i had my teeth removed in Nov and did not receive my plate till Feb so my gums have sores from them of course i wanted to see how much it would cost to just have teeth wired into my gums? Please e-mail me at sharlene [email protected] concerned Canadian sharlene jefferson thanks

    Reply
  18. I just had the rest of my upper arch removed to get ready for a full mouth restoration. I had ten teeth left and a prosthetic upper denture was made. However it is over a week and my mouth is so very sore I can’t stand to have the denture placed! Stitches everywhere and some very raw spots but no infections. I am without teeth so that things will heal but is this normal? The pain of placing the dentures was way worse than post surgical. I had to have the dentist stop !! Some advice ? I’m 58.

    Reply
    • hang in there. A soft reline should help. You should also be on a very soft diet. It typically takes about 1 month or things to settle down

      Reply
  19. Dear Dr. Amin,
    Upon advice from my dentist. 2 weeks ago I had 26 teeth removed & received temporary dentures. I hate them. Since all teeth were removed could I possibly have all implants put in within a very short time? Say 2 or 3 days? I know it will cost me some money. But I will write you a check plus a bonus if done in a short time. Respectfully, T. B.

    Reply
    • Hi Terri,

      Reconstruction of any of your body parts (teeth included) should never be rushed. Sometimes things can be moved along much faster in the right situation but don’t ever compromise your final result over trying to get it done faster. That being said, I am often consulted to redo cases that really turned out terrible and have lots of complications.

      For the last 16 years I have done immediate and early reconstruction of full arches on a routine basis. When we have a patient that needs to speed up things, oftentimes I have to add more implants since we may do same day fixed teeth. If you’re in my area, please call the office and we can see what can be done. Hang in there…. Soon enough you will be out of dentures 😉

      Reply
  20. Hello Dr. Amin,

    I’ve read elsewhere on the internet that some patients who have received a front tooth implant often complain about tightness and discomfort. Is this common and what are some ways to adjust the implant for maximum comfort?

    I currently have a root canaled tooth that is causing me pain and I’m considering whether implants are a viable solution. Comfort is most important for me (aesthetics too), as I don’t want to have to live with a bothersome tooth for the rest of my life.

    Thank you!

    Reply
    • Dental implants done properly in the front of the mouth do not cause the type of pain you describe. It is by far the most comfortable tooth replacement that dentistry has to offer. Of course if you’re tooth is savable, there is no reason to have an implant. Implants are a distant second placed to your own natural tooth. Nothing is better than nature.

      here are some additional examples.

      Respectfully,

      Ramsey Amin DDS

      Reply
  21. Just wondering if there is a max length for implant in anterior lateral incisor, #10. Have had one and pain remains 6 months after placement. No crown yet due to pain. CBCT is showing poor bone integration, odd angle of implant itself and close proximity to neurovascular bundle. Consideration of removing it on table, but wondering if there are any other options than doing that. Is titanium, BioHorizons 3.8 x 15mm on a 3.0 platform.

    Reply
    • There is no maximum length for any dental implant. It is determined by each area and it’s unique anatomy. The area of the lateral incisor is dictated and link by the base of the nose.

      There are no nerves or arteries in this area. The closest one is called the infraorbital nerve which is quite a distance away and not in the maxillary lateral position

      A regular x-ray is better than the CBC T for evaluating integration.

      If there are any questions about it causing your pain you should probably just remove it and replace it with a second one

      Reply
  22. Hello Doctor Amin,
    I have upper full denture for 7years. I tried mini implants but it was feeling uncomfortable and one of mini came off.
    Then when they made implants on my existing denture when I tried it on my face expression changed very badly. My front teeth look stick out longer and my round face made look longer and my dentist doesn’t seem noticed even I was almost cry to see such change in my face expression.
    Also current concern is my lower teeth with partial denture.
    I want to have good bite and as well as I want my face back as I can feel that I’m myself.
    Would you be able to take my concern and requests that my front teeth should look with my photos?
    Also I want to have implants on lower teeth to support denture. I don’t think I am ready for upper implants but I want to make new upper and lower denture.
    My affordable budget is somewhere 30k.
    Would it possible to my teeth that I believe it should be?
    Would you test try them to see if it is the one that I want?
    Appreciate your advice.

    Thank you,

    Yuri,

    Reply
    • Mini implants are never a good idea. They bend and break and are really considered temporary dental implant. I have removed so many of these.

      Yes, I definitely use photographs and try to duplicate the patient’s face and teeth. You must be realistic and provide a photograph that is more current. Sometimes people bring photographs that are 30 years old….I wish I was 10 years younger too!!

      Your budget is realistic to have treatment that is good overall. If you want fixed teeth on both upper and lower you may have to double your budget.

      After the steps of the surgery/extractions//bone grafting are done it is time to start making the final teeth. You and I will choose the specifics of how you want your teeth to look. I will coach you on color, how much teeth/gum you should show when you smile, the length/shape and about 1000 other details. This process includes digital and real molds, facial analyses and bite measurements. Many of the Prettau dental implant bridges I make involve a digitized version of fixed temporaries to allow you to test drive the real teeth before they are made. –

      See more at: https://www.burbankdentalimplants.com/the-process-of-permanent-fixed-dental-implant-teeth-5-steps-to-replacing-all-your-teeth/#sthash.5NcUcLDB.dpuf

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry

      Reply
  23. I had implants put in the lower and upper jaw. The dentist put in my temporary teeth until my gums heal. However, I cannot chew with my temporary teeth as they seem to be too big. Is there something I can ask my dentist to help this concern?

    Reply
    • I don’t have enough information to fully answer your question. I assume you have upper and lower immediate dentures. This means he had dentures placed the same data teeth were extracted. You may have to remake the dentures if they are too big. The other problem may be that you’re not adapting to normal-sized dentures. Dentures in general are very difficult to adapt to in the first 1-3 months…. Some people never adapt to them. If you have fixed teeth those can be modified more easily.

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry

      Reply
  24. I had a root canal many years ago on my front tooth and never had it capped. It broke off almost totally. I am so self conscious about it. How much does it cost to fix it and is there any cosmetic quick fix till I get some money. I have no dental insurance.

    Reply
    • Ugh… That is no fun… I feel so bad for you.

      Don’t necessarily look for the cheapest implant. Dental implants are not permanent but can be performed to last a very long time. Do your research carefully. Cost is going to vary tremendously by experience.
      This page on dental insurance will help answer some of your questions.

      Very Respectfully,

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry

      Reply
  25. Dear Dr. Amin

    I lost my two upper front teeth when I was just 10 years old (11 years ago) because of a school accident and I’ve been using dental bridge since then. I changed my first bridge 5 years after the accident. My current crown is 6 years old and my dentist told me that it could last for a maximum of 15 years. Right now I’m thinking of getting an implant, and I’ve read articles saying that the “immediate loading” phase could last up to 8 months or more in some case, during that period, patients would wear removable dentures to have the confidence to smile in the process. My question is, can I wear a fixed dentures instead, I’m afraid that my removable dentures would fall off while I’m working especially that my job requires a lot of talking and face to face interaction with people. I was emotionally affected by the incident which I carried with me growing up, the permanent dentures made it better but the removable ones just scares me.

    -Janice Caporal

    Reply
    • I understand your apprehension. Keep in mind this is going to be a short-term sacrifice for a long term benefit. Depending on your unique situation, a fixed temporary may be possible but this will be determined primarily by the health of your adjacent teeth and your bite pattern. Without seeing you, I cannot answer this for sure. There is also a type of temporary we call and Essix bridge— this looks like a clear Invisalign retainer placed over your teeth. It looks like you’re having braces done. Look into this option and see if it is right for you.

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry

      Reply
  26. Dear Dr Amin,

    Thanks for taking the time to reply to comments on the site! I just had a few questions for you. I had a bike accident about a week ago and lost my bottom front tooth. Fortunately I was able to see a dentist quickly, however, although I thought I’d kept the tooth, I realised I’d misplaced it. I have decided to get a dental implant, but my dentist said I should wait a month for the gum and bone to heal before undergoing the surgery. I just would like to get a second opinion on the following:

    1) do I really have to wait a month? My teeth and gums no longer hurt, and I’m very self conscious about my smile.
    2) in the event that I do have to wait a month, would you recommend that I wear a temporary partial denture for this period?
    3) my bite feels different from before. Will my teeth move back to their original alignment, or is this new alignment what I have to live with?

    I would ask my dentist these questions, but my appointment is scheduled for next Friday and I’m just worried over the meantime. Thanks for answering my questions!

    Reply
    • Waiting or not waiting both have risks. For sure, I would’ve already taken a 3-D scan. This would assess the adjacent teeth and most importantly, the presence of the extremely thin outer wall of bone we call the buccal plate.

      If you wait too long, the bone will shrink and you will need a substantial bone graft to recover this area or else the implant will be placed without a graft in a position that’s to close to your tongue making the tooth look unnatural. If you don’t wait long enough, the adjacent teeth that may have also been traumatized may die in need root canal treatment from the impact. If they abscess next to a dental implant or healing bone graft, everything is going to fail. It will take out the implant, the graft and possibly the adjacent teeth. Depending on your unique situation, I may have removed the contents of the healing socket and grafted bone within a week of you losing the tooth. The options for temporaries are going to be dependent on the skill, training and judgment of your dentist. Most often, I place a dental implant and a temporary at the same time in this particular area of the mouth because the bone is usually very dense. Your bite needs to be carefully evaluated. If your bite seems off you may have broken your jaw all the way up near the TMJ or anywhere else. Again a 3-D scan and excellent panoramic x-rays will help determine this. If your bite is off, this can be extremely detrimental to all of your teeth.

      Respectfully,

      Ramsey Amin DDS

      Reply
    • If it was out more than an hour, the chances are extremely low that it will take. I hope it does.
      I am assuming you had the tooth reimplanted after it was knocked out.

      Ramsey Amin DDS

      Reply
    • If it was out more than an hour, the chances are extremely low that it will take. I hope it does.
      I am assuming you had the tooth reimplanted after it was knocked out.

      Ramsey Amin DDS

      Reply
  27. is it possible to pre-implant the knock-out teeth after one day past?…my friend kept it in a dry area,but after one day he consult to a denstist and doctor said,he will preimplant his teeth then after they will wait and observe for three months if it will going to work…what do you think much better he do about it?.
    .thank u.

    Reply
    • Hello Maria,

      A tooth should be reimplanted within 1 hour of it being removed ideally. Ideally it has been stored in your mouth or in milk at a second choice. The tooth should not be scrubbed or cleaned at all. This removes the periodontal ligament fibers and natural cells and that would help reattach the tooth. It is extremely unlikely that 24 hours after tooth has been knocked down that it can be replaced. The blood clot already fills in the extraction socket in the tooth will not be able to fit back into the original socket.

      This would be the time to start looking for a dental implant specialist. He may even want to consider curetting out the socket and doing a bone graft some time in the first 7 days after the accident. A socket bone graft can be done even after the tooth has been extracted.

      socket bone grafting basics

      respectfully,

      Ramsey Amin DDS

      Reply
  28. Dr.. I have been without all of my teeth for a little under 2 years now. I finally got my law suit settlement and I would like to get my entire month done with Implants. Price is not an issue and I also don’t mind going without teeth for a while. My main concern is that the work is done right. I want the strongest teeth possible I am 48 years old. Are there different materials and strengths of the final teeth? How and what would you recommend if price is not an issue? Would I get an implant for every missing tooth? Or what I have been told is that they do (I’m going from memory and I might have the terminology wrong) but I think they said like a full on 7 or something to that affect. Where I’m guessing but I assume that 7 Implants would support the whole upper and the same for the lower. Anyway what would you recommend for someone in my situation where a complete upper and lower in other words I have absolutely no teeth in my mouth..What is the price of such a procedure? Thank you very much. I would like to have you do the work as you seem to be very knowledgeable and helpful to everyone who writes to you. Thank you again for your time and help..

    Reply
    • Hello Philip,

      In order to answer your question accurately I would obviously need to see you. The examination is extensive and usually takes about an hour and a half to complete. A full set of digital intra-oral photographs and a hi resolution 3-D scan is necessary. Molds are taken of your teeth and mounted in a simulated mouth that called an articulator.

      One implant for every single tooth is not always the proper answer even if money is no object.

      Your case needs to be evaluated closely to make your teeth strong, handsome and function well in the short and long-term. Your facial profile, lip support and ability to speak all need to be evaluated and built into prototype teeth and then made into the final teeth.

      The cost can vary tremendously for rehabilitating the mouth with implants that stay in full time. Most of it is going to depend on how much bone you have and how dense that bone is. Some people require extensive sinus bone grafting and even repositioning of their main nerves in the bottom jaw. Others require bone block grafts with screws in order to rebuild a really thin areas of bone. Some people have naturally ton of bone to work with v.

      Each of the two jaws can vary in cost from approximately $25-$50,000. This would bring a total mouth cost between 50,000 $100,000 at times.

      We have to think of our teeth as a body part or organ system. It is extremely important to design it in such a way that gives us the best long term. Dental implants are not teeth but they are the closest second place that we have.

      I would love to meet you in person. Please call my office to schedule an appointment. The phone number is 818-846-3203

      Very respectfully,

      Dr. Amin.

      Reply
  29. Dear Sir,
    I have dental implant in bottom jaw center portion.4 months of implant placement with temporary removable acrylic denture, I felt implant loos & discomfort in bottom of implant(gums) with acrylic denture. Please advice me the reason for this situation & best solution to resolve it.

    Thanks in advance

    Reply
    • It sounds like your implants are failing. It also sounds like you had “immediate same day teeth”. This requires a dentist with a very high skill level and a patient that has the perfect situation for it.

      I would see your dentist asap.

      Reply
      • Actually its not same day teeth.firstly implant bottom part was fixed with healing cap . After 3 months top part(abutment) fixed & then temporary denture removable fixed. but after one & half month I felt implant front & back movement(marginal may be 1 mm) & little pain on gums(implant bottom portion)There is no vertical movement.Can you please analyse this case? What goes wrong & what is to be done?
        Thanks in advance.

        Reply
        • without seeing you, there is no way that I can really give you a final answer. All I can tell you is that a dental implant is not supposed to move at all. If it is moving, it has failed. Sometimes it is only the healing cap that is moving and of course that can be easily tightened. But if the entire implant is moving, it needs to be removed.

          Dr. Amin

          Reply
  30. Hi,

    I had a root canal on one of my bottom molars when I was 11 (I’m 30 now) and the crown came off a few years ago. I had it replaced then however the new crown and part of the tooth came out a couple of weeks ago. The dentist I have now says I need an extraction and also need to get an implant and crown, but I can only afford the first part of the procedure right now. Once I have the implant put in, how long can I wait before I must get the crown? The lady who scheduled my appointment said the important thing now is getting the rest of my tooth extracted and getting the implant put in, and the crown can wait…but how long can I wait?

    Thanks!

    Anna

    Reply
  31. Hello Dr. ,

    I had RCT on tooth #4 over a year ago. Despite numerous visits to endodontist and ENT specialist and My own primary. Xrays and Opinions are saying I should not have any pain but I do !! My primary recently found that I had a cavity on tooth #5 that had RCT and a crown so that was where my pain was coming from.

    So last week I got a crown put on #4 , got cavity fix on tooth #5 with a crown to put on next week… But I still feel pain in tooth #4… I guess at this time
    I am ready to get Tooth #4 extracted and possibly a dental implant.
    I am own blood thinners and was wondering can you get Dental implants if you temporarily stop blood thinners ?

    Thanks and regards

    Reply
    • Hi Darrin,

      Blood thinners are not typically an issue for the experience dental implants surgeon. Most of the time they will elect to leave you on the blood thinner and manage bleeding. It is typically safer to keep you on the blood thinner than to take you off of it. It depends on the reason why you are taking it in the first place such as severe atrial fibrillation.

      I would also suggest that you have a high resolution, limited field of view 3-D scan to make sure that all of the root canals are filled. This could lead to pain even after the root canals are complete. Oftentimes a fracture can be spotted on 3-D scan that cannot be seen nontraditional x-ray or by visualization.

      These web links may help:
      Blood Thinners and Dental Implants
      Cone Beam 3D Scan X-ray – Basics For Dental Implants

      Very Respectfully,

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry

      Reply
  32. Hello Dr. Ramsey,

    I had a traumatic incident about 20 years ago when my front tooth was severely injured. At the time it was saved, but I ultimately had it extracted in 2005 and wore a flipper for the last 7 years of that timeframe. In 2012, I decided to get Invisalign in order to straighten the teeth before proceeding with a dental implant. The tooth is the front tooth on the left side (tooth #9). I had the implant placed on july 28th 2014. At the time, the periodontist also placed additional synthetic bone alongside the implant to give it better structure since I had lost a lot of bone mass in the time I didn’t have a tooth. On december 15th, (roughly 4.5 months after the implant placement), I went in to get the abutment put in. The doctor took an XRAY and there was black spacing around the implant, but he told me not to worry because the occlusion is ultimately what matters in the end, and that this black space may never fill in. I am concerned that the black space means there is lack of bone in that area and that this could mean failed osseointegration and could end up leading to a failed implant. Does black space around an implant always mean lack of bone? Should I be highly concerned about this? I’m going back on Jan 19th 2015 to get moldings made for the crown, and then the crown will be place around the third week of February 2015. Any light you could shed on this would be great.

    Reply
    • Hello Vincenzo,

      I really appreciate your attention to detail… You would make a great dentist!

      X-rays are very difficult to read. They can only be read by a trained eye. They are variations of black white and gray. Not all black spaces are bad. There is no way for me to know what your x-ray looks like so I cannot give you a detailed answer. It is unlikely that your dentist will make a crown on a compromised implant.

      On a front and Center tooth, I would highly suggest that a temporary is fabricated first. Allow the temporary to be on the implant for 1-3 months prior to making the final crown. This will allow the gum to take shape. Any problems would be noted during this time typically.

      Ultimately it is the cosmetics of your front tooth that is most important. The occlusion of course is important but for a front and center tooth, aesthetics takes the pole position in my opinion

      Front Tooth Bone Loss and Dental Implant Replacement
      Front Teeth Dental Implant Samples

      Very Respectfully,

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry

      Reply
  33. I want implants to replace some of my missing teeth. My dentist just completed a Flexi-partial, must say, looks great but hurts like an SOB. He advised Im not a canidate for implants as I’m a grinder. In your opinion, could I get implants? Thank you do much for your feedback.

    Reply
    • Hi Lee,

      Just because you’re a grinder, that does not mean you cannot have dental implants.

      It just means everything has to be done more carefully. You have to make sure you have sufficient bone, a good size dental implant, excellent adjustment of the crown, strong crown materials…. In essence everything has to be built very tough for you.

      You do not want to skimp on implant number. You need as many as possible to prevent a long-term failure and bone loss. I would also suggest the teeth be restored with monolithic zirconia if they are back teeth. This material is very strong.

      Dental implants are performed on patients that grinding that their teeth every single day.

      Check out this link:
      Ramsey Amin DDS Reviews Solid Zirconia Custom Dental Implant Crowns and Abutments Instead of Metal

      Good luck,

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry

      Reply
  34. Okay, so in September I had to get crowns over my two front teeth after the dentist took off the decaying areas. Its been almost two months and my gums still aren’t looking right. Between my gums and my crown there is a little blackness there. How long is it supposed to take before that finally heals up and advice to speed it up??

    Reply
    • Mr. Anonymous,

      Dental x-rays need to be closely evaluated for the presence of bone at the very crest of your natural teeth or dental implants. I do not know whether you have teeth or implants but it sounds like you’re talking about natural teeth.

      This post may help you, but ultimately a dentist needs to closely evaluate you in order to determine whether or not this triangle of gums will grow back.

      The Triangle of Gums Between Teeth and Implants

      Respectfully,

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry

      Reply
  35. Hi doctor Amin. So enjoyed reading your comments. I am having my healing post fitted next Monday. On my front tooth I was just wondering how much longer until the implant ie whole procedure will be finished.

    Thanking you

    Lilian

    Reply
    • Hello Lilian,

      Thank you for your very kind words. Back teeth tend to be done more quickly than front teeth. Oftentimes front teeth need the gums to be groomed into position which may take 3 months after having the healing abutment and placed. Back teeth can typically have the crown about 4 weeks after the healing abutment is placed.

      Abutments -Burbank Dental Implants Expert -Dr. Ramsey Amin – Case Follow up

      Respectfully,

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
      Burbank, California

      Reply
  36. Dr.
    I had a root canal on # 5 done six weeks ago. There is still discomfort in the area of that molar. Have been on a six day medrol pack and ten days of amoxicillin. Have been checked by endo twice . Tonight I saw a tiny bump in the gum above the molar, does this mean an abcess and if so will I lose the molar? Thank you in advance for your reply.

    Reply
  37. I was in an accident many years ago and subsequently had to have all my teeth removed. At first, the dentist wanted to wait to see if the teeth would reseat, but they did not, so he pulled them all. I have tried dentures several times, but I cannot keep them in because the cause severe gagging. I have thought about getting implants, but I don’t know how this would work or what the cost would be. I have heard as high as $34,000 for a full set, but this is way out of my price range. I am very self-conscious when needing to speak in public, but I just cannot afford anywhere near that kind of money and I don’t have any insurance to even offset even a part of the cost. Are these figures correct or would the cost be more or less?

    Reply
    • Hi Craig,

      Replacing an entire jaw with dental implants is an extremely complex procedure. Replacing our body parts is never inexpensive. The cost you were quoted are definitely within range. Oftentimes extensive bone grafting is needed in addition to dental implants and porcelain fixed teeth such as Prettau.

      A fixed dental implant replacement can range from $25-$50,000 for just the upper or lower. A high resolution 3-D scan and a very skilled implant dentist can help you achieve what you’re looking for.

      Most of my patients that have this done spread the cost out over time using healthcare financing such as CareCredit.

      3D Scan

      Prettau Dental Implant Full Mouth Bridge

      Hours and Financial

      I hope you’re able to do something soon before your bone shrinks so badly that treatment becomes even more expensive and complex.

      Very respectfully,

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
      Burbank, California

      Reply
  38. For planning purposes, I have an appointment to have my 2 implants installed. What is this process since the molds have been taken and I assume the teeth have been made. Will this be my final visit and how long does this final appointment take? Are there follow-ups?

    Thank you,
    Tony

    Reply
    • Hello Tony,

      If you only had 2 simple dental implants, this will likely be your final visit. Expect to be there approximately one hour if both the final abutments and crowns are being installed. Also expect to have a dental x-ray taken at the end to verify that all cement has been removed. Follow-up visits are sometimes necessary in order to make sure your bite is accurate on the dental implants. I am assuming these are 2 dental implants for back teeth.

      Respectfully,

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry

      Reply
  39. Dr. Amin,

    Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions. I have been without four teeth for maybe 10 years, wearing a partial denture. One tooth on one side of my two upper front teeth, two on the other side of my upper teeth, and one on the bottom near the front are missing. With the teeth having been missing for over 10 years, will the bone mass be enough, and when I have the teeth replaced will the gums look natural?

    Thanks,

    John

    Reply
    • Hello John,

      If you have been missing teeth for 10 years, it is extremely likely that you will need a bone graft in order to have enough bone mass for dental implants. Because you haven’t used this bone for more than 10 years, natural atrophy has occurred and basically bone just melts away. When the bone melts away, the gum also shrinks too.
      Bone Loss
      It is very possible to get your teeth, gums and bone back to its original size and shape before or during the dental implant placement. It will likely require some extensive bone grafting to give you enough vertical and horizontal thickness for the dental implant posts.

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
      Burbank California

      Reply
  40. I had a first bicuspid removed in February. After 4 months healing it was determined that more grafting was needed due to a curved root in adjacent tooth. Now 4 more months to heal again, hopefully implant of post and then 4 more months before tooth can be attached. I’m so discouraged with the length of this process. Is there any way for this to be accelerated?

    Reply
    • Hello Casey!

      Some dental implants take a short is one day. Some dental implants that are complex can take two to 2 ½ years to complete. Every situation is so unique. I recently treated a very attractive young female that was missing her front and center tooth. I had to take her through several stages of bone and gum grafting in order to bring everything back to ideal. Once we finally place the implants, it was allowed to heal for four months. After the four-month healing duration, I fabricated a temporary on a custom abutment to help groom her gum to be shaped correctly.

      I can go on and on with the detail but just keep in mind that your unique situation and the skill, training, judgment, and experience of your dentist are all factors in what determines how much time your implant will take.

      Here’s a link that will help you

      https://www.burbankdentalimplants.com/dental-implant-bone-graft-healing-what-to-expect/

      😉
      Very respectfully,
      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
      Burbank, CA

      Reply
  41. Hi, I’m currently 16 and I’m almost going to get my braces removed but I need two implants on my upper teeth and my dentist wants me to wear my retainer with fake teeth while I wait for my mom to start the whole implant process but can’t I keep my braces while I wait? And I’m still a little confused to how the whole implant process works. Like the day I’m set to get them do I get everything done and my implants are put and it takes 3-6 months to recover or?

    Reply
    • Hello Mellisa,

      It sounds like you are missing a tooth from birth. This is called a congenitally missing tooth.

      At 16 years of age, and you need to make sure that you are done growing. If you are still growing, you could outgrow your dental implant. This can sometimes be verified by taking an x-ray of your hand/wrist junction.

      During the process of having a dental implant to replace her missing tooth, you should always be able to have a temporary tooth on your braces. The whole process generally takes between 3-12 months depending on if you need bone grafting or not. Many times when you’re missing a tooth from birth, the bone does not form so it needs to be rebuilt. These can be very complex.

      Be sure you have the level of your gum line and evaluated for evenness prior to placing a dental implant in your upper front teeth. sometimes her teeth have not completely erupted and you have excessive gum tissue that needs to be removed so that your teeth don’t look so small. Your gum line is likely not completely mature at age 16, but that can be surgically altered to speed up and have a very nice cosmetic result.

      https://www.burbankdentalimplants.com/missing-one-tooth/

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry

      Reply
  42. Hi! I had a single dental implant Oct. 2013. After 4 month of healing and follow up appointments w surgeon he advised that the bridge could be replaced and my dentist did the work. I have had strange sensations at the implant site ever since and often thought if it as phantom pain where the original toothed once was. Recently this sensation has become a nagging pain and I have to take Advil regularly. Is it possible that my body is rejecting the implant and what should I do now?! Thanks for your anticipated response.

    Reply
    • Hi Friede ,

      You need to see your dental implant dentist right away. X-ray should be taken, your bite should be checked and your gums measured for any pockets or early bone loss.
      It is imperative that you be checked out very soon!

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry

      Reply
  43. i am having several teeth extracted and implants placed. I will be having the extractions and implants done at the same time and them in a month I will be having temporary crowns loaded on the implants. Will a month of healing be enough to load temporary crowns?

    Reply
    • hello K,

      Immediate extraction and placement of dental implants with temporary crowns is something I do on a daily basis in my practice for the last 15 years. I would not wait one month to do this though. The implants should be loaded either on the same day or within 24 hours or wait until 2 months has gone by. At the 1 month mark, the bone is going through changes were the implant is just about to anterior its weakest remodeling phase inside of the bone. This generally occurs at 6 weeks. The implants should achieve high initial stability and tightness in the bone in order to have temporaries placed on the same day. A very skilled implant team should be responsible for this.

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry

      Reply
  44. doctor as it is known that implants is very expensive for the country i am Tanzania to us is huge amount of money plus hotel is it posible to have implants in the day of operation and the cost for 5 missing teeth

    Reply
    • Hello Mropa,
      Dental implants are placed all over the world. It is nice to hear from you being on the other end of the world!!! I would explore some local options and find a very qualified, skilled, dental implant specialist.

      Dr. Amin

      Reply
  45. i have severe decay in roots two lower molars and bad receding gums in the same area and they need to be extracted.
    The periodontist said he can extract them and put implants at the same time.

    The Oral Surgeon said not to do that but to extract and let them heal then do implants.
    What should i do?

    Reply
    • Hi Barbie,

      I would need to see you to make that determination. Sometimes delayed or sometimes same day dental implant placement is best. It is highly variable. Typically same day implants are located towards the front of the mouth.

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry

      Reply
    • Hi Alice,

      If the crown can be replaced that would be a better option than extracting the root and having an implant.

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry

      Reply
    • Hi Mary,

      After 2 weeks it is likely that there is a problem. Generally speaking, by that time you should really be on the mend.

      Most of my patients take motrin or Tylenol after standard implant procedures and even large bone grafts. If they need strong meds, it is only for a 3 days typically.

      Some patients are more sensitive though. I suggest you see your dentist ASAP to evaluate the source of the pain. The bone should be checked for infection and vitality.

      Good luck!

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry

      Reply
  46. Hello Doctor,

    I had my two lower teeth pulled and now finally I got two post in the front of my mouth. The doctor told me it would take 4 months for the posts to heal and see if they will stay in?(whatever that means) Is that, a all right time frame for healing and then getting the crowns(I think that is what they would be called) fitted and then to put back in? After that, How long will that take SO I got the post in and waiting for it fo heal and then get implants in after 4 months?

    Reply
    • Hi Michael,

      I don’t totally understand your question. Can you please rephrase it?

      4 months is fairly average time to allow bone healing.

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
      Burbank, CA

      Reply
  47. I am having alot of trouble i was going to get implants after getting a bone graft for my lower 4 front teeth, my dentist pulled the teeth than done bone grafting, i waited for about 2 months than i had a ct cone scan, his office called me in about a week to tell me they needed another 5000.00 for a bone block. at no time did he tell me that this could happen. i have already paid him 4600.00. now i dont know what to do. do you know anything about mini implants? thanks i’m just so sick about all this.

    Reply
    • Hi Tammy,

      Ugh. I understand your concern. Often after a recent extraction, the whole outer wall of bone disappears quickly.

      If this were the case, another, more major bone graft would be needed.

      In my practice I am usually able to predict this 99% of the time, but there is no guarantee as how the human body will heal.

      Respectfully,

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
      Burbank, CA

      Reply
  48. hi dr i recently had a front tooth knocked out im 20 and my teeth are very important to me so you can imagine how i felt, because the whole tooth came out clean the dentist has put it back in and used a bonding agent across my front teeth to hold it in place, will my jaw re accept the tooth, how long will it take roughly, and when do i need to look at getting a root canal treatment done ? thanks in advance

    Reply
    • Hi Lucy,

      Sorry for the delayed reply. This comment did not come through properly.

      When a tooth is knocked out the prognosis is really variable. They do not always need root canals or dental implants.

      How is it doing now as of late november 2012?

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
      Burbank, California

      Reply
  49. Hi Dr. Ramsey! Do you have any recommendations for this kind of procedure in the Saint Louis area? I am currently active duty and deployed, but when I get back I’d like to get an implant for a canine tooth I lost a while ago. I’ve been using a flipper with a wire across the front to keep my teeth in place. The flipper is better than nothing, but I hate my smile right now and am so self conscious about my smile. Looking into civilian because my plan for now is to get out after my enlistmet is up in January. Thanks!

    Reply
    • Hi Stephanie,

      Thank you for serving our country and protecting my children. The world needs more people like you.

      Your best bet would be to find someone with similar credentials to mine. They are well qualified to handle your unique needs.
      http://www.aboi.org/diplomate.asp

      Thank you again and good luck!

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
      Burbank, CA

      Reply
  50. Hi, 3 weeks ago had a tooth removed just in front of my wisdom ‘the top left’. The gum is not really healing at all. Can I get an implant now rather than waiting for this to heal then having it done afterwards?

    It is also giving me slightly bad breath and this is something that I have never ever suffered with and is making me slight uncomfortable speaking to people up close.

    Thanks Tom

    Reply
    • Hi Tom,

      The upper back teeth area has VERY soft bone. In most instances, it is best to wait until complete bone healing before placing the implant.
      Bad breath is not uncommon after an extraction of the socket is not kept clean.

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
      Burbank, CA

      Reply
  51. I had a front tooth implant placed 10 weeks ago and was told I can’t get my temp crown for another 10 weeks! My restorative dentist wants me to get a temp crown now to allow the gums to heal around it and to get me out my flipper (which I would love) Who’s right? and is 10 weeks to early to load a temp?

    Reply
    • Hi Gary,

      10 weeks is not too early. If you have a class one bite and the implant had initial stabilty of more than 35NcM in great natural bone, you should be able to have a temp on a front implant. There are about a 100 more details to consider, but those are the basics.

      Ramsey A. Amin, D.D.S., D.A.B.O.I.
      Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology /Implant Dentistry
      Fellow-American Academy of Implant Dentistry
      Burbank, California

      Reply
  52. I have to have an upper sinus lift and would like to know realistically how long the recovery; bone growth, etc will take before the implant is inserted? I get different time frames from different dentists. One said 6 months which is too long as with all my past dental work, I heal quickly. Thank you

    Reply
  53. Hi Susanne,
    There is a neat way to have a temporary with your braces.
    Ask your dentist to “hang” a tooth on the ortho wire. This will fill in the space and still allow you to move the teeth.
    I do this all the time!
    Dr. Amin

    Reply
  54. I currently have braces making space to put in an implant for my front upper lateral incisor.
    My current dentist has only quoted me for the completion of the braces treatment. Told me i have at least 8 months left to go… although I believe there to be a significant GAP in my front tooth already.
    This makes me self conscious and unwilling to smile or talk. Is there a way to make the gap less noticeable? Such as this temporary teeth you have mentioned in this post? While i complete my braces treatment?

    Reply
  55. Wow. What a helpful post. I wish I lived closer to you. My dentist is not as thourough. 🙁 I am having three lower molars replaced.

    Reply
  56. Feel hopeful about your procedure! In the hands of an experienced implant dentist, this should be successful. I have been doing immediate implants for 10 years now.
    Thanks for your post. Let me know if I can be of any assistance.
    Dr. Amin

    Reply
      • yuyu,

        Why not be sedated for the dental implants? IV sedation is extremely safe and will keep you very comfortable during and even after the procedure. I perform IV sedation 1-3 times a day for the last 15 years or so. make sure sedation is given by IV not by oral medications.

        Reply
  57. This is amazing! I was told that I need to get a dental implant in my molar, and seeing this success story makes me feel less hopeless about my upcoming procedure.

    Reply
    • I need some help, some answers. I have MS, and had to have all of my teeth surgically removed inpatient under general anesthesia. I was to get 4 implants, but only got 2 on the bottom. This was done April 20th, 2016. I have not had any teeth since then. I am finally getting over the pain. I have had 2 sets of molds done,and picked out my teeth color. How much longer do I have to go before my implants will be completed? I still have to have the upper implants inserted. I am just looking for a light at the end of this tunnel. Please give me any information that you have. I went into this blindly. I should have done my homework!

      Reply

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