What Is a Dental Implant? Costs and Treatment Timeline

A dental implant is a titanium or zirconia screw placed into the jawbone to function as an artificial root. A porcelain crown placed on top restores esthetics and function.

Typical Treatment Flow

It usually involves three stages and, depending on the case, takes about 3–6 months in total.

Stage 1: Examination & Planning (2–3 Days)

1. Clinical Exam: Oral exam and medical assessment.
2. Imaging: CBCT to map bone dimensions and anatomic landmarks.
3. Surgical Planning: Determine site, angulation, and implant type.

Stage 2: Surgery (Implant Placement)

1. Placement: Under local anesthesia, a flap is opened, an osteotomy is prepared, and the implant is inserted.
2. Healing (Osseointegration): ~3–6 months in the maxilla; ~2–4 months in the mandible. A temporary prosthesis may be used.

Stage 3: Prosthetics

1. Second-Stage: Healing abutment is connected.
2. Impressions: Digital or conventional precision impressions.
3. Crown Delivery: The lab-made crown/bridge is fixed to the abutment.

What Affects the Cost?

1. Brand/Quality of the Implant
2. Number of Implants
3. Additional Surgeries: Sinus lift, bone grafting, etc.
4. Clinician’s Experience & Location
5. Prosthetic Type: Metal-ceramic, zirconia, all-ceramic, etc.