What it is
An implant is a small screw placed in the jawbone. Over the following months the bone grows onto it (dentists call this osseointegration). Once it is stable, an abutment and a crown are fitted on top.
Because the bone needs time to heal, most patients travel twice: once for the surgery and once for the final crown. Some clinics offer "immediate loading" (a temporary tooth on the same day) when the bone is good enough. That is a clinical decision made after a 3D scan, not a package option.
If there is not enough bone, you may need a bone graft or a sinus lift first. That can add a trip or extend the healing time. A good quote tells you this up front.
A typical schedule
- Trip 1, day 1
Examination, 3D scan (CBCT), final plan and price confirmed in writing.
- Trip 1, day 2
Implant surgery under local anaesthetic. Temporary tooth if suitable.
- Trip 1, day 3–5
Check-up, stitches checked or removed. Fly home.
- 3–6 months
Healing at home. Your local dentist can check on progress.
- Trip 2, day 1–3
Implant checked, abutment fitted, impressions or scan for the crown.
- Trip 2, day 4–7
Final crown fitted and adjusted. Implant passport handed over.
A typical pattern only. The clinic sets your real schedule after the examination. Try the holiday planner to see it as a trip.
Questions worth asking
- Which implant brand and system will you use, and will I get an implant card with the lot numbers?
- Who places the implant, and what is their training (oral surgeon, periodontist, implantologist)?
- Is a 3D scan (CBCT) included before the final plan?
- What happens if the implant does not integrate? What does the warranty cover, and do I pay for travel?
- Is the abutment included, and is it stock or custom?