VA Salt Lake City Health Care System

The Dental Implant Process

The dental implant process can take anywhere from several months to two years from beginning to completion. The following
steps will need to occur before implant surgery can take place:

1. Completion of Regular Dental Treatment (approx. 1-9 months)*
   This includes cleaning and all fillings, root canals, periodontal work, and/or crowns that you may require.
   
   
2. Consideration by Treatment Planning Committee (1-2 months)*
   The Treatment Planning Committee will determine if implants are the best treatment for you.

At this point, based on the committee's decision, you will either be approved or denied.

If you are denied, the process will end. Your doctor may discuss with you other options or whether any changes can
be made in order for you to try again. If so, you will be required to restart the process from the beginning.

If you are approved, the process will continue as follows:

3. Waiting Period (2-4 months)*
   You will need to wait until a time becomes available to you to schedule your surgery. This, too, may take more
   or less than the estimated time, as booking varies.
   
   
4. Implant Surgery (2-4 hours)*
   
   
5. Healing Period (4-6 months)*
   Your mouth will need to heal before permanent dentures and/or crowns can be attached. Healing time varies by
   individual, but should not take longer than 6 months.
   
   
6. Impressions (1-2 hours)*
   When you are finished healing, you will need to call our office to schedule an appointment to have impressions
   taken for the final restorations of your implants.
   
   
7. Waiting Period (6-8 weeks)*
   
   
8. Attachment of Final Restorations

*Times given are estimates. Actual times may vary.