Your journey toward a restored smile begins with understanding each stage of the dental implant process. At Shine Dental in Newington, Dr. Cho walks every patient through a clear treatment plan before any work begins — so you always know what to expect.
Why Dental Implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. Over time, the bone fuses with the implant in a process called osseointegration, creating a stable foundation for a crown, bridge, or full-arch prosthesis.
Unlike removable dentures, implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth. They also help preserve jawbone density, which can deteriorate after tooth loss.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Assessment
Every implant journey at Shine Dental begins with a thorough assessment. During your first visit, Dr. Cho will:
- Take detailed digital X-rays and scans of your jaw
- Evaluate your bone density and gum health
- Discuss your medical history and any medications
- Explain your treatment options and expected timeline
Patients from Newington, Wentworth Point, Sydney Olympic Park, and surrounding suburbs appreciate the unhurried consultations we provide. Dr. Cho speaks both English and Korean, making communication comfortable for a wide range of patients.
Step 2: Treatment Planning
Using 3D imaging, Dr. Cho maps the precise position for each implant. This digital planning phase ensures accuracy and helps avoid important structures like nerves and sinuses.
If bone grafting is required due to bone loss, this will be discussed during the planning stage. Not every patient needs a bone graft — it depends on the quality and volume of bone available.
Step 3: Implant Placement Surgery
On the day of surgery:
- Local anaesthesia is administered to ensure comfort throughout the procedure
- A small incision is made in the gum tissue
- A precise hole is drilled into the jawbone
- The titanium implant is carefully positioned
- The gum is sutured closed over or around the implant
The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes per implant. Many patients are surprised by how straightforward the experience is.
Step 4: The Healing Period (Osseointegration)
After placement, the implant needs time to integrate with the jawbone. This healing period usually takes 3–6 months. During this time:
- You may wear a temporary restoration
- You'll follow specific dietary guidelines
- Regular check-ups will monitor healing progress
Dr. Cho has placed over 9,000 implants across his 35+ year career, and this experience means he can advise precisely on healing timelines for your specific case.
Step 5: Abutment and Crown Placement
Once the implant has integrated:
- A small connector piece called an abutment is attached to the implant
- Impressions are taken for your custom crown
- The final crown is fabricated to match your natural teeth in colour and shape
- The crown is securely attached to the abutment
How Long Does the Whole Process Take?
From initial consultation to final crown, the process typically takes 4–8 months. Factors that influence the timeline include:
- Whether bone grafting is needed
- How quickly your body heals
- The number of implants being placed
- Your overall oral health
For patients needing multiple teeth replaced, All-on-X implant solutions can restore an entire arch in fewer appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many appointments are needed for a single dental implant?
Most patients require 4–6 appointments spread across several months: consultation, planning, surgery, healing check-ups, and final crown placement.
Can I eat normally during the healing period?
You'll need to stick to soft foods for the first 1–2 weeks after surgery and avoid chewing directly on the implant site. After initial healing, you can gradually return to your normal diet.
Is there an age limit for dental implants?
There is no upper age limit for implants. As long as you have adequate bone density and are in reasonable general health, implants can be a viable option.
What if I don't have enough jawbone?
Bone grafting procedures can rebuild lost bone to support an implant. Dr. Cho will assess this during your initial consultation and discuss options with you.
Ready to Learn More?
If you're considering dental implants and live in the Newington, Auburn, Silverwater, or Lidcombe area, book a consultation with Dr. Cho to discuss your options.
Call us on (02) 9748 4822 or book online.
Shine Dental — Unit 5, 8 Avenue of Americas, Newington NSW 2127
Open Mon–Wed & Fri 9am–5pm, Thu 9am–12pm