If you’re missing a tooth, or have one that can’t be saved, it helps to know what implant treatment involves before you book. This guide walks through each stage in plain English. It draws on information from Healthdirect and the Australian Dental Association, and on how we plan treatment at our Vermont South practice. It is general information, not personal advice.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small screw, usually made of titanium, placed in the jawbone where a tooth root used to be. Over time the bone grows around it to hold it in place. A crown, bridge or denture is then attached to the implant. An implant can’t decay like a natural tooth, but the gum and bone around it can still become inflamed or infected, so ongoing care matters.
Implants can be used to replace a single tooth, support an implant-retained bridge, or hold an implant-retained denture.
Dental implant procedure at a glance
| Stage | What happens | Typical timing |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Consultation and 3D imaging | Health check, examination, scans, treatment plan | Varies; may take more than one visit |
| 2. Extraction and bone grafting (if needed) | Failing tooth removed; bone added if there isn’t enough | Extra healing time if needed |
| 3. Implant placement | Implant placed in the jawbone under local anaesthetic | One surgical appointment for many cases |
| 4. Osseointegration | Bone grows around the implant | About 3 months, sometimes longer |
| 5. Abutment attachment | Connector fitted to the implant | Follow-up appointment |
| 6. Final crown | Custom crown fitted | Follow-up appointment(s) |
Step 1: Consultation and 3D imaging
Everything starts with a thorough assessment. At your consultation your dentist will:
- Review your medical history and medications. Some conditions and medicines affect healing, so this is a safety check as well as a suitability check.
- Examine your teeth and gums. Decay and gum disease need to be under control before implant treatment can go ahead.
- Explain the procedure. We use physical models and digital technology so you can see what’s involved, and there’s time for your questions and to talk through finance options.
If implants look suitable, we gather diagnostic records:
- A digital scan of your teeth and gums, taken with an intraoral scanner that doesn’t use radiation.
- A 3D cone beam CT (CBCT) scan, which shows the width, height and quality of your bone and the position of nerves and sinuses that must be avoided. CBCT uses X-rays, so it is taken only when clinically justified, and exposure is kept as low as reasonably achievable.
The scans are combined in planning software to map where each implant should go and what the final tooth will look like. This also lets us design a custom surgical guide, which is 3D printed to fit your mouth and used during surgery to help place the implant in its planned position. You can review the 3D plan with us before treatment starts.
You can read more in our step-by-step guide to implant placement, or book a free dental implant consultation . Ask the team which parts of the assessment, such as imaging, are included in the consultation and which are charged separately.
Step 2: Tooth extraction and bone grafting (if needed)
Not everyone needs this step.
Tooth extraction. If the tooth being replaced is still in your mouth but can’t be saved, it is removed first. Depending on the infection and the bone available, your dentist may place the implant at the same visit or allow the socket to heal first. Research on the timing of placement after extraction is ongoing, so the choice is made case by case.
Bone grafting. Jawbone can shrink after a tooth is lost or after gum disease. If there isn’t enough bone to hold an implant securely, a graft adds bone to the area. Graft material can come from your own body, a donor, an animal source or a synthetic material, and your dentist will explain the options. For some upper back teeth, a sinus lift may be discussed. Grafting adds healing time before the implant can be placed, and your dentist will estimate how long in your case.
Step 3: Implant post placement
Implant placement is a minor surgical procedure. In outline:
- Local anaesthetic is given so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure, though you may feel pressure or vibration. Talk to the team beforehand if you’re anxious.
- A small opening is made in the gum to reach the bone, guided by your custom surgical guide if one has been made.
- A series of drills prepares a space in the bone for the implant.
- The implant is placed, and a protective cover screw is fitted over it to support healing.
Depending on the tooth being replaced, temporary options may be available so you aren’t without a tooth while you heal. Ask about this at your consultation.
Afterwards, bruising, swelling, some pain and minor bleeding are possible. Healthdirect notes that your dentist may advise a mouthwash instead of brushing the area for two to three weeks, soft foods while it heals, and antibiotics or pain relief if needed. Follow your dentist’s instructions. Smoking can slow healing and reduce the long-term success of an implant, so tell your dentist if you smoke.
Step 4: Osseointegration (healing)
Osseointegration is the process by which bone cells grow around the titanium implant and hold it in place. The ADA and Healthdirect both describe this as taking about three months, and in some cases it takes longer. During this time:
- Your crown is made in a dental laboratory.
- You’ll have review appointments so your dentist can check healing.
- Good oral hygiene and any temporary tooth care instructions are important.
Conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis and gum disease, and habits such as smoking, can raise the chance of complications. Your dentist will discuss these with you.
Step 5: Abutment attachment
Once the implant has integrated, the protective cover screw is removed and an abutment is attached. The abutment is the connector between the implant below the gum and the crown that will sit above it. Your dentist then takes an impression or digital scan so the lab can make your crown. In some cases an abutment is placed at the time of surgery, and your dentist will tell you which approach suits your case. Your gum may need a short time to settle around the abutment before the final crown is fitted.
Step 6: Final crown placement
The final crown is custom-made to match the shape, size and shade of your neighbouring teeth, typically from porcelain or another tooth-coloured ceramic. At this visit your dentist will check the fit and your bite, then secure the crown to the abutment.
Once your implant is in place, look after it like a natural tooth:
- Brush twice a day, including where the gum meets the implant.
- Clean between teeth daily with floss, interdental brushes or a water flosser.
- Attend regular check-ups and professional cleans.
For several missing teeth, the same process applies with implant-supported bridges or dentures. Our dental crowns and bridges page explains the other restorations.
Risks and possible complications
Every surgical procedure carries risk, and implants are no exception. Possible problems include infection, nerve damage, sinus problems, injury to nearby teeth, an implant that doesn’t integrate with the bone, and peri-implantitis (inflammation and bone loss around an implant that can loosen it if untreated). Your dentist should explain the risks, benefits and alternatives before you consent to treatment. The Therapeutic Goods Administration also publishes five questions to ask your health professional before any medical implant.
Questions to ask any implant provider
- Is the clinician who will place the implant registered, and in which category? You can check on the Ahpra register.
- What does the written quote include, and what could change it?
- What happens if there is a complication or the implant doesn’t integrate?
- What follow-up and maintenance will I need?
- What alternatives suit my situation?
Frequently asked questions
Does dental implant surgery hurt?
Implant placement is done under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure, although you may feel pressure or vibration. Afterwards, bruising, swelling and some discomfort are common and are usually managed with the aftercare and pain relief your dentist recommends. Contact your dentist if pain is severe or getting worse.
How long does the entire dental implant process take?
It usually takes several months. The jawbone typically needs about three months to fuse with the implant, and some cases take longer. Extractions, bone grafts and sinus lifts add healing time. Your dentist will give you an estimate based on your plan.
How long do dental implants last?
Implants are designed to be a long-term option, but no one can promise how long yours will last. A 2019 systematic review of 18 studies in the Journal of Dentistry found that 96.4% of implants were still in place after 10 years, or 93.2% in a more conservative analysis. “Survival” means the implant remains in the mouth, not that there were no complications. Results depend on gum health, oral hygiene, smoking, general health and regular check-ups. The crown on top may need repair or replacement before the implant does.
Can you go back to work the day after implant surgery?
It depends on you and your treatment. Recovery varies with the number of implants, whether grafting was done and how you feel afterwards. If sedation is used, you shouldn’t drive and will need to rest. Many people plan to take it easy for a day or two. Ask your dentist what to expect for your own plan before you book time off.
Are dental implants covered by Medicare or private health insurance in Australia?
Medicare generally doesn’t cover most dental examinations and treatment, and that includes implants for most adults. Healthdirect says Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold or White Card holders may be able to claim implant costs, so check with DVA. Private health insurance may help if your extras policy includes major dental and covers implants. Benefits, annual limits and waiting periods vary widely between funds and policy levels, so confirm with your fund before treatment. We can give you an itemised treatment plan to take to them.
Who is suitable for dental implants?
Your dentist checks that you have enough bone, healthy gums, and that your medical conditions and medicines won’t affect healing. Severe gum disease and smoking can make treatment less suitable. Healthdirect also lists osteoporosis, diabetes, cancer, bleeding disorders and being over 60 as things to mention. Implants are generally considered for adults whose jaw growth is complete. Only an assessment can tell you if you’re a candidate.
What are the risks of dental implants?
Risks include infection, nerve damage, sinus problems, injury to neighbouring teeth, implant failure and peri-implantitis. Your dentist will explain how these apply to you and what the alternatives are before you decide.
How much do dental implants cost in Melbourne?
Fees vary with the number of implants, whether extractions or grafting are needed, the materials used and the clinician. Healthdirect advises knowing all costs before you start and asking for a quotation. A quote can include the consultation, imaging, surgery, abutment, crown, any temporary tooth and review visits. We offer TLC Payment Plans with plan amounts from $2,000 to $50,000 and terms up to 84 months, subject to credit assessment and approval, and information on paying with super through SuperCare (eligibility applies). Total Lifestyle Credit, Australian Credit Licence 509691. Speak to TLC for a quote and full terms and conditions.
What is the difference between dental implants, bridges and dentures?
An implant replaces the tooth root and doesn’t involve the teeth next to it. A bridge is attached to the surrounding teeth. A denture is removable. Each has advantages and drawbacks, including treatment time, surgery, cost and maintenance, and your dentist can help you weigh them for your situation.
How do I care for a dental implant?
Brush twice a day, clean between your teeth daily, and keep up regular check-ups and cleans. Implants can’t get cavities, but the gum and bone around them can become inflamed, which is why daily cleaning matters. If you notice swelling, bleeding or a loose implant, see your dentist promptly.
Health fund participation at Complete Smiles
Complete Smiles is a preferred or participating provider with:
- Bupa Members First Platinum
- Medibank Members’ Choice
- nib First Choice
- HCF Participating Provider
- CBHS Network Preferred Provider
- Qantas Insurance, AAMI, Apia, Suncorp and GU Health
We accept all major health funds. (Last verified: 7/10/2026)
Book a dental implant consultation in Vermont South
If you’re considering implants, we’d be happy to talk through whether they’re suitable for you. Book online, request a free implant consultation, or call (03) 9803 5515.
Complete Smiles Vermont South
1 Woodleigh Crescent, Vermont South VIC 3133
Serving Vermont South, Glen Waverley, Nunawading, Mitcham, Box Hill, Wantirna, Ringwood and surrounding suburbs.
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. Closed Saturday and Sunday.
Sources:
Healthdirect, Dental implant procedure;
Australian Dental Association, Dental implants;
TGA, Five questions to ask before a medical implant;
FDA, Dental implants: what you should know;
Privatehealth.gov.au, What is covered by Medicare;
Howe MS, Keys W, Richards D. Long-term (10-year) dental implant survival: a systematic review and sensitivity meta-analysis. J Dent 2019;84:9–21. doi:10.1016/j.jdent.2019.03.008
This information is general and doesn’t replace professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Results vary with each patient, and any dental procedure carries risks and benefits. Please consult a registered dental practitioner about your situation.
