The short answer

The surgical appointment places an implant according to an assessed treatment plan. Ask about anaesthesia, additional procedures, what you will wear afterwards and the written recovery instructions. Preparation depends on the procedure and whether sedation is involved.

The key points

  • Follow the service’s specific preparation instructions.
  • Discuss medicines and health conditions beforehand.
  • Leave with clear contact and aftercare arrangements.
On this page
  1. Before the appointment
  2. What the placement stage involves
  3. Before you leave the practice
  4. Sources & further reading

Before the appointment

Confirm the planned procedure and make sure outstanding consent questions are answered. Tell the team about medicines, allergies and changes in health. Do not independently stop prescribed medication. If sedation is planned, arrange the required escort and follow the service’s instructions about food, drink and recovery.

Sources: [1][2]

What the placement stage involves

After the area is numbed, the surgeon opens the gum where needed, prepares the planned site in the jaw, places the implant and closes the tissues with stitches. The exact approach depends on the plan and any accompanying graft. Ask how you should signal discomfort during the appointment.

A healing component may remain visible above the gum, or the implant may be covered while it heals and exposed in a later small procedure. A visible healing cap is not the finished crown. Ask which approach is intended so that you understand what you will see and what the next appointment involves.

  • Confirm whether other procedures are included.
  • Ask which temporary tooth or denture you may use afterwards.
  • Make sure you understand the plan if findings change.

Sources: [1]

Before you leave the practice

Obtain written guidance about eating, cleaning, activity and any prescribed medicines. Clarify the next review and who to contact outside opening hours. Numbness, soreness and recovery instructions affect practical plans for getting home and working; do not assume a general internet timetable fits your operation.

Sources: [3]

IMPLANTVERIA · FAQ

Common questions

Will I feel pain during placement?

The team should discuss anaesthesia and comfort before treatment. If you feel pain or distress, communicate it; do not assume you must tolerate it to complete the appointment.

Can I drive home?

That depends on anaesthesia, sedation and your condition. Follow the treating service’s instructions and arrange transport when required; do not apply local-anaesthetic assumptions to a sedated procedure.

Sources & quality

Sources & further reading

These references inform this article. Individual recommendations require a conversation with a dental professional.

  1. Having a dental implantGuy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust · EN
  2. Dental implants: overviewGuy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust · EN
  3. After having a dental implantGuy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust · EN