The process involves a thorough dental and general examination. Intra oral and OPG X rays are required. The first stage surgery involves the placement of specific size and shape implants at strategic locations in the mouth. This is performed after anaesthetizing the patient and giving an incision. Using special drills holes are made inside the bone at the locations where implants are to be placed. After the completion of the procedure sutures are placed. These might be resorbable or non resorbable type. Usually the healing is uneventful as the patient is on the prescribed drugs. A slight swelling might occur near the area of operation. It takes 2-3 days to subside. A temporary restoration is placed for the time being. After 4-6 months the second stage surgery is performed to give a punch hole and the implants are exposed. Metallic abutments are screwed on top of the implants. The last stage involves the placement of crowns, bridges or over dentures as the final prosthesis. Implants can also be placed immediately after extractions. Dental implants can last a lifetime and are an excellent investment in oral health provided a patient can invest time into it !.

Today implants are used fairly commonly in dentistry. They have a good success rate, and can sometimes mean the difference between a patient having teeth, or going without anything. They can be used to replace individual missing teeth, and in situations in which a standard bridge would not work, such as replacing back teeth where no posterior abutment is available for a retainer .They are especially good for people who cannot wear a full denture because they gag, or because of severe bone resorption. All the teeth can be either permanently fixed or could be used as an over denture.