An implant replaces the root of a missing tooth with a titanium fixture, then a crown on top. It is the closest thing to getting the tooth back. Here is what the treatment actually involves, how long it takes, and what we need to know before you fly.
What the treatment involves
Implant treatment is not one appointment. It is a short sequence spread over a few months, because the bone needs time to bond to the fixture.
- Diagnosis – 3D CT scan, X-rays and an assessment of the bone where the tooth is missing.
- Placement – the fixture is placed under local anaesthetic. Sedation is available if you are anxious.
- Healing – usually 2 to 4 months while the bone integrates. You can fly home during this period.
- Crown – we take a digital impression and fit the final crown, usually across two visits.
How many visits, and how long in Korea
Most single implants need two trips: one for placement, one for the crown a few months later. Each trip is short – the placement visit is typically 2 to 3 appointments over about a week, and the crown stage is 2 appointments over 5 to 7 days.
If you cannot come back, tell us at the planning stage. In some cases we can compress the schedule, and in others we can coordinate the crown stage with a dentist at home.
If you live outside Korea, send us a recent X-ray or a clear photo before you travel. We will tell you how many visits your case needs and how long to stay, so you can book flights around the treatment rather than the other way round.
Whether you are a candidate
The main question is bone. An implant needs enough healthy bone to hold it, and bone shrinks after a tooth is lost or if gum disease was present. That is what the CT scan tells us.
If there is not enough bone, that does not rule you out – it usually means a graft first. See bone grafting and sinus lift.
Uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking and some medications affect healing. Tell us your full medical history and current medications at the consultation; it changes the plan rather than ending it.
What it costs
Cost depends on how many implants you need, which fixture and crown material suit your case, and whether a graft is required. That is why we do not quote a single number online.
We give you a written treatment plan and a cost estimate before anything begins, so you know the total before you commit. If the plan changes after we see your CT scan, we tell you why and what it changes before we proceed.
Korean national health insurance does not cover most implant treatment for non-residents. If you have travel or private dental insurance, we can provide itemised documentation for your claim.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a dental implant take from start to finish?
Typically 3 to 5 months for a single implant, most of which is healing time you spend at home. The chair time is a handful of appointments across two trips.
Is implant surgery painful?
The placement is done under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during it. Afterwards most patients describe pressure and swelling for 2 to 3 days, managed with prescribed painkillers. Sedation is available if you are anxious – see our urgent care page if you are currently in pain.
Do you speak English throughout the treatment?
Yes. Consultation, treatment plan, consent forms and aftercare instructions are all handled in English by our dentists and staff.
What if there is a problem after I fly home?
Contact us with photos and we will advise. We provide your records, X-rays and the exact fixture specification so a dentist in your country can treat you if needed.
Can I have the implant and crown in one trip?
Sometimes, depending on bone quality and which tooth it is. It is a clinical judgement made after the CT scan, not something we can promise in advance.
Related treatments
Ask us before you travel
Send a recent X-ray or a clear photo and tell us what is bothering you. We will reply in English with what the treatment involves, how many visits it needs, and how long to stay in Korea.
Email Us in English