Your 2025 Guide On How Are Dental Implants Installed?

If you’re asking how are dental implants installed in San Antonio, this short guide walks through the main steps, typical timeline, and who it’s for. Read on to learn the process, recovery expectations, and simple next steps to get started.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are metal posts (usually titanium) placed into the jaw to act like tooth roots. A typical implant restoration has three parts: the implant (the post in bone), the abutment (the connector), and the crown or prosthesis (the visible tooth or bridge). Implants replace missing teeth to restore chewing, speech, and a natural appearance.

Step-by-step: how are dental implants installed

1. Consultation & treatment planning

The process starts with an exam and review of your medical history. X-rays or a CBCT scan check bone and nearby structures. Your dentist creates a custom plan that shows where implants will go and what type of restoration you’ll get.

2. Preparatory care (extractions, bone grafts, sinus lifts)

Some patients need tooth extractions or bone grafting to build enough support. Sinus lifts may be required for upper back teeth. These procedures add healing time—often a few months—before implants can be placed.

3. Implant placement surgery

Surgery is done with local anesthesia and often IV sedation for comfort. The surgeon places the implant into the jawbone through a small incision and closes the site. You may get a temporary crown or denture right away in some cases.

4. Healing and osseointegration

Over 2–6 months the bone fuses to the implant in a process called osseointegration. Expect light swelling and mild discomfort for a few days. Follow-up visits check healing and let your team know when the implant is stable enough for the next step.

5. Abutment and impression

Once healed, the abutment is attached to the implant. Your dentist takes impressions or digital scans to design the final crown, bridge, or full-arch prosthesis so it fits your bite and looks natural.

6. Final crown or prosthesis placement

The final restoration is secured to the abutment and the bite is adjusted. Your dentist will confirm fit, function, and appearance. After placement you should be able to chew normally and see a natural-looking tooth replacement.

7. Ongoing care and maintenance

Daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups keep implants healthy. Watch for redness, pain, or loosening and contact your dentist promptly if you notice any problems.

Who is a good candidate for implants?

Good candidates generally are adults with enough jawbone, good oral hygiene, and controlled medical conditions. Factors that affect candidacy:

• Bone volume and density (may need grafting)

• Overall health — uncontrolled diabetes or conditions that affect healing can be a concern

• Smoking — quitting improves success rates

• Age — implants work for most adults; bone health matters more than age alone

People not ready for implants may consider bridges or dentures while planning for implants later.

Risks, recovery timeline, and common side effects

Common side effects include swelling, mild pain, and minor bleeding for 1–7 days. Full osseointegration usually takes 2–6 months. Rare but possible complications are infection, nerve injury, or implant failure. Most issues are treatable—antibiotics, minor surgery, or replacement implants—and early detection improves outcomes.

Cost, timeline, and financing basics

From first visit to final crown, expect a timeline of a few months to a year depending on extractions, grafts, or healing needs. Cost varies by number of implants, type of restoration (single crown vs. All‑on‑4), materials, and use of advanced technology. Common financing options include payment plans, third-party medical credit, and in-office financing to spread cost over time.

About The Smile Institute SA and Dr. Luis Galvan

The Smile Institute SA in San Antonio provides implant and cosmetic dentistry with an emphasis on stress-free care. The practice offers an on-site dental laboratory, IV sedation, and full-arch solutions like All‑on‑4 and All‑on‑6 for faster, predictable results. Dr. Luis Galvan has extensive implant experience, advanced training, and professional affiliations that support high-quality, consistent outcomes.

How to get started

To learn more about how are dental implants installed in San Antonio, schedule a consultation at The Smile Institute SA. Bring a list of medications and your medical history. Prepare questions about the timeline, sedation options, and financing so you leave the visit with a clear plan and next steps.