A dental implant is usually completed in stages over several months. The process involves a series of tests and minor surgical procedures. The exact treatment process and length of treatment depends on the individual case, but the following is a general overview of the dental implant procedure. Prior to the procedure, your dentist will ensure you are an appropriate candidate for a dental implant. CT scans and x-rays will be used to evaluate your jaw bone and help us plan the procedure. The first procedure involves placing the titanium implant. Pilot holes are drilled into the jawbone and slowly widened to provide space for the implant screw. The implant is placed into the jawbone, a healing cover is placed over the implant. The next phase is the healing and integration process where the implant anchors into the bone and heals. This typically takes 3 to 6 months. Once the implant is stable, your dentist will be able to start the process of making you a crown to fit over the implant. A 3-D digital scan of your teeth will be taken, which is used to create the artificial tooth or teeth. Finally, the artificial tooth or teeth is cemented or screwed onto the implant.