A dental implant replacement is really two things: the surgical placement of the implant post, and the restoration that sits on top of it. Different steps, sometimes different providers, always coordinated. Understanding which part is which makes the whole process easier to plan.
Dr. Zack Finnegan, DMD at Magnolia Smiles in Woodstock, GA handles the restorative side (crown, bridge, or denture on top of an implant), and coordinates with an oral surgeon or periodontist for the surgical placement when needed. This guide explains the difference, the typical timeline, and what to expect.
The two parts of an implant
Part 1: the implant itself (surgical)
A small titanium (or in some cases ceramic) post is placed into the jawbone where the root of a missing tooth used to be. It is roughly the size and shape of a natural tooth root. Over the following months, the bone grows around and locks into the surface of the post through a process called osseointegration. Once healed, the implant is as stable as a natural root.
This step is done under local anesthetic (the oral surgeon can discuss sedation options), typically in about an hour for a single implant.
Part 2: the restoration (restorative)
Once the implant has healed and integrated, a custom crown, bridge, or denture is attached to it. This is what you see and chew with. The restoration screws or cements onto a small connector called an abutment.
This step involves scans, lab work (or in-office milling), and final delivery. No surgery, no numbing usually needed.
Who does what
- The surgical placement is often done by an oral surgeon, periodontist, or implant-trained general dentist.
- The restoration is typically done by your general dentist.
- The plan should be coordinated between both providers before any surgery so the implant is positioned for the ideal final crown.
At Magnolia Smiles, Dr. Finnegan plans the restorative goal first and works with a trusted surgeon on placement. The result is a crown that emerges from the gum the way a natural tooth would.
Typical timeline for a single-tooth implant
- Consultation and 3D imaging. Plan the implant position and confirm bone volume.
- Bone grafting if needed. If more bone is required, a graft is placed and heals for 3 to 6 months.
- Implant placement. Surgical appointment. About one hour.
- Healing (osseointegration). Typically 3 to 6 months. A temporary crown or removable appliance can fill the space in the meantime for visible teeth.
- Abutment and impression / scan. Once healed, the top of the implant is uncovered (if needed), and the connector plus a digital scan is taken.
- Final crown delivery. The custom crown is attached to the implant. Bite is checked. You walk out chewing normally.
The whole process is typically 4 to 8 months. Same-day or immediate-load implants exist for specific cases and are discussed when clinically appropriate.
Types of implant restorations
Single implant crown
One implant, one crown. Replaces a single missing tooth.
Implant-supported bridge
Two implants supporting a bridge that replaces three or more teeth in a row.
Implant-supported denture
Two to six implants supporting a removable or fixed denture. Dramatically improves stability compared to a traditional denture that rests on the gums.
Full-arch implant restoration
Four to six implants supporting a full arch of teeth. Also called All-on-4 or All-on-X in some marketing.
What can go wrong at each step
Being honest about risks:
Surgical
- Rare early implant failure (does not integrate). Usually noticed within the first few months.
- Nerve or sinus complications (uncommon with proper planning).
- Infection (uncommon with proper aftercare).
Restorative
- Screw loosening on a screw-retained crown. Fixable in a short visit.
- Cement washout on a cement-retained crown. Re-cementable.
- Ceramic chipping on the crown (uncommon).
- Occasional need for occlusal adjustment.
Long-term studies show implants have 10-year success rates in the mid-90s percent range. Most complications are manageable.
What Magnolia Smiles handles
- Restorative planning before referral for surgery.
- Coordination with the surgeon on implant position.
- Custom abutment and crown design.
- Final delivery, bite adjustment, and maintenance.
- Follow-up cleanings that respect implant surfaces.
Learn more about dental implants at Magnolia Smiles or restorative dentistry in Woodstock, GA.
Frequently asked questions
Does one dentist do both parts?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Complex cases benefit from an oral surgeon or periodontist for placement and a general dentist for the restoration.
How long does the whole process take?
Typically 4 to 8 months for a single implant. Longer if bone grafting is needed.
Is it painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort after the surgery, comparable to a routine extraction. Ibuprofen and rest for a day or two.
Can I have implants if I have gum disease?
Not with active gum disease. It is treated first, stabilized, then implant planning begins.
Are implants covered by insurance?
Coverage varies. Many plans now cover a portion. Bridges are still more commonly covered. The office verifies benefits and provides written estimates.
How long do implants last?
Well-placed and well-maintained implants often last 20 to 30 years or longer. The crown on top may need replacement earlier than the implant itself.
Ready to plan an implant?
An exam and 3D imaging tell you whether an implant is the right option for your case. Contact Magnolia Smiles to schedule a consultation.
Reviewed by Dr. Zack Finnegan, DMD. Magnolia Smiles, Woodstock, GA. This article is for general education and does not replace an in-person exam.