Step 1 — Initial Dental Assessment

The first stage is a comprehensive clinical assessment.

The dentist reviews the patient’s dental history, examines the teeth and gums, evaluates the missing-tooth area and discusses the patient’s expectations.

Depending on the case, diagnostic imaging may be recommended.

For patients beginning their journey digitally, Dr. Kartavya Agravat’s ATH AI-enabled free assessment can provide an initial technology-assisted assessment experience. It should be viewed as an awareness and screening-support tool rather than a substitute for a dentist’s clinical examination.

Step 2 — Digital Imaging and Diagnosis

Modern implant dentistry can use digital radiography and three-dimensional imaging such as CBCT when clinically indicated.

These technologies can help the dental team evaluate:

• Jawbone dimensions
• Implant site anatomy
• Nearby anatomical structures
• Bone availability
• Position of adjacent teeth
• Treatment requirements

The dentist determines which diagnostic imaging is appropriate for each patient.

Step 3 — Digital Treatment Planning

Once the diagnostic information is available, the dental team develops an individualized treatment plan.

Digital planning can allow the dentist to evaluate implant position, restorative requirements and surgical considerations before treatment.

In selected cases, computer-assisted planning and surgical guides may be used to help transfer the planned implant position to the clinical procedure.

The goal is not simply to place an implant but to plan the complete tooth replacement—including the implant, abutment and final restoration.

Step 4 — Preparing the Mouth

Before implant placement, existing oral health problems may need to be addressed.

Depending on the patient, treatment may include management of gum disease, removal of a damaged tooth, treatment of infection or evaluation of bone volume.

Some patients may require additional procedures, such as bone augmentation, before or together with implant placement.

The exact sequence varies according to the individual case.

Step 5 — Dental Implant Placement

During the Dental Implant Procedure, the dentist creates an appropriate site in the jawbone and places the dental implant.

Local anesthesia is commonly used, while other forms of anesthesia or sedation may be considered depending on the procedure and patient.

Digital planning may assist the dentist in achieving the planned implant position, but the procedure remains a clinical treatment performed by a qualified dental professional.

Step 6 — Healing and Osseointegration

Following implant placement, the implant generally requires a period of healing.

During this stage, a process called osseointegration allows the implant to become integrated with the surrounding bone.

Healing time varies considerably between patients and depends on factors such as implant location, bone quality, surgical procedure and individual healing.

Patients must follow the treating dentist’s postoperative instructions during this period.

Step 7 — Abutment and Final Crown

Once the implant has adequately healed and the dentist determines that it is ready for restoration, an abutment may be connected.

The final dental crown is then designed and fitted to restore the appearance and function of the missing tooth.

Digital scanning and computer-aided laboratory workflows can be incorporated into the restorative process in appropriate cases.

Step 8 — Follow-Up and Maintenance

A Dental Implant Procedure does not end when the crown is placed.

Long-term maintenance is important.

Patients should maintain good oral hygiene, attend recommended dental check-ups and follow professional cleaning and maintenance advice.

Although implants are designed for long-term use, they can develop complications if oral hygiene is poor or if the surrounding tissues become affected by disease.