Wondering How Long a Dental Implant Takes? Here’s What to Expect
If you’re considering dental implants, you might be asking, “How long does a dental implant procedure take?”Getting an implant is a multi-step process that varies depending on your oral health, bone structure, and recovery time.
The good news? Most dental implant procedures take a few months, but the results last a lifetime! Plus, if the cost is a concern, there are ways to save on implants—even without insurance.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ How long a dental implant procedure takes (step-by-step)
✔ What factors affect the timeline
✔ How to save money on dental implants with membership plans & financing
Quick Tip: Looking for an affordable implant dentist? Find one near you on The Patient Marketplace.
How Long Does a Dental Implant Procedure Take? Step-by-Step Timeline
The full dental implant process typically takes between 3 to 9 months, depending on whether you need tooth extractions, bone grafting, or additional healing time.
| Procedure Step | Time Required | What Happens? |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Consultation & X-Rays | 1 day | Your dentist evaluates your mouth & takes X-rays. |
| Tooth Extraction (if needed) | 1 day | If the damaged tooth is still present, it’s removed. Healing time: 4–8 weeks. |
| Bone Grafting (if needed) | 3–6 months | If your jawbone is too weak, grafting is done. Healing required before implant placement. |
| Implant Placement Surgery | 1–2 hours | A titanium post is placed in your jawbone. Healing time: 3–6 months. |
| Abutment Placement | 1–2 weeks | The connector piece is attached to the implant after healing. |
| Crown Placement (Final Tooth) | 1–2 weeks | A custom-made crown is placed, completing the implant process. |
Did you know? Some patients can get same-day implants if they have strong jawbone density and no additional treatments needed.
Factors That Affect the Length of a Dental Implant Procedure
Several factors can impact how long the dental implant process takes:
✔ Bone Health: If your jawbone isn’t strong enough, you may need bone grafting, which adds months to the process.
✔ Number of Implants: Single implants heal faster, while full-mouth implants (All-on-4 or All-on-6) take longer.
✔ Oral Health: Gum disease or infections can delay healing and extend treatment time.
✔ Healing Response: Some patients heal faster than others, shortening the overall timeline.
How to Save on Dental Implants Without Insurance
1. Join a Dental Membership Plan
A dental membership plan is one of the best ways to save on dental implants, especially if you don’t have insurance. These plans are offered directly by dentists and provide instant discounts on implants and other treatments.
✅ Save 20%–50% on implants
✅ No waiting periods, deductibles, or claim denials
✅ Includes checkups & cleanings to maintain oral health
Find a dentist offering membership plans on The Patient Marketplace.
2. Compare Prices & Look for Special Offers
Not all dentists charge the same for dental implants. Shopping around or using The Patient Marketplace can help you find lower prices and special discounts.
Pro Tip: Some dentists offer cash discounts or new patient specials that can help reduce costs.
3. Use an HSA or FSA to Reduce Costs
If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA), you can use pre-tax dollars to pay for implants, saving you 20%–30% in taxes.
Learn more about how HSAs work for dental care.
4. Ask About Payment Plans & Financing
Many dentists offer payment plans or financing options (such as CareCredit) that allow you to split the cost into smaller monthly payments—sometimes with no interest.
Real Savings: How One Patient Got Affordable Dental Implants Without Insurance
Meet Lisa. She needed a single tooth implant but was quoted $4,500—far more than she could afford.
She searched for affordable dental implant providers and found The Patient Marketplace, where she discovered a dentist offering a membership plan for just $199/year.
Her plan included:
✔ Free exams & X-rays
✔ 40% off dental implants
✔ Discounts on follow-up visits
Instead of $4,500, she paid $2,700—saving $1,800 on her new tooth!
Find out how much you can save! Browse affordable implant providers now.
Take Action: Find Affordable Dental Implants Today
If you need dental implants but don’t want to overpay, take control of your dental costs today.
Find a budget-friendly implant dentist near you on The Patient Marketplace.
Don’t wait—start your journey to a healthier, long-lasting smile today!
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