The first is to place the implant fixture itself into the bone. After this is done, the bone must be allowed to heat for four to six months. During this time the bone weaves its way around the implant and directly on the implant surface. This is called osscointergration. After the implant has integrated, it is uncovered by a second procedure, so the dentist may use it to do the tooth replacement.
Patients are generally surprised how pain-free and easy the surgical procedures go.
Relatively few dentists are trained to practice implant dentistry but the number is increasing. The national standards in the field of implant dentistry is being worked on by the American Dental Association. Currently, most educational programs are provided by implant manufacturers. These programs orient the dentist toward the particular system the manufacturer sells. The implant treatment can be done in several ways.