A thorough assessment is made first. This involves a detailed examination of the entire mouth including dental xrays such as a 2D view called an OPG or, increasingly, a 3D CT scan that allows the three dimensional view of the bone and surrounding teeth to be viewed in great detail. In addition photographs and dental models may be taken. A comprehensive treatment plan is then formed and this is discussed with the patient.

It may be necessary to carry out other treatment first to eliminate other disease from the mouth.

The implants are placed with gentle surgical, techniques. This is most often done under local anaesthesia but may use IV sedation. Once placed the implants are left for a period of between six weeks to six months to heal in which time the bone fuses to the implant in a process called osseointegration. The healing time is determined at the time of implant placement and is reliant on the quality and quantity of the available bone.

Once integrated impressions of the jaws are taken and the restorations made. These are then fitted in the mouth either by cementing in place or by dental implant screws. The patient is then placed on a maintenance programme where the implants can be properly looked after and monitored.