The Chairside Instructor 37 Implants Tooth Replacement Missing tooth Tooth replaced by a dental implant and crown Implant and abutment in place Steps of Implant Placement Steps of Implant Surgery There are three general phases of implant treatment: • Implant placement: The dentist surgically places the implant into the jaw. • Healing: The bone grows around the implant and holds the implant in place. This can take up to several months. • Replacing your missing teeth: The abutment, then a crown, bridge or denture will be made to fit your mouth and your implants. Once completed, the man-made teeth are attached to the implant posts. Before implant The implant is surgically placed in the jaw. Bone and tissues grow around the implant. A crown is placed on the implant. The crown may be connected to the implant by an abutment. Implant Gum tissue Crown Abutment Bone