Dental Implant Surgery in Mumbai: Step-by-Step Process Explained

By Dr Pauravi Hegde MDS, Mumbai based Endodontist Specializing in Crafting the Perfect Smile

Introduction: Why Dental Implants Matter in Mumbai

If you’ve ever had to deal with a missing tooth—or worse, multiple missing teeth—you know how much it can impact your confidence and daily routines. Think about it: not being able to enjoy your favorite Mumbai street foods without worry, feeling self-conscious during a family gathering in Sewri or Dadar, or even hesitating to smile at a wedding function in Matunga because of a noticeable gap. Missing teeth can affect everything from your ability to chew comfortably to how you feel about your appearance in social settings.

I’m Dr Pauravi Hegde MDS, and I’ve been practicing dentistry in Mumbai for over a decade, focusing on restoring smiles and giving people the confidence they need to navigate life in this vibrant city. In areas like Ghatkopar and Antop Hill, life moves fast—people are constantly on the go. It’s no surprise, then, that many are looking for a reliable, long-lasting tooth replacement solution. That’s where dental implants come into play.

But what exactly are dental implants, and what does the surgery entail? If you’ve been hearing terms like “titanium post,” “osseointegration,” or “abutment,” don’t worry—I’m here to simplify the entire process. In this step-by-step guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about dental implant surgery, from the initial consultation to that final look in the mirror when you see your brand-new smile.

1. Understanding Dental Implants

Dental implants are often called the “gold standard” for replacing missing teeth, and it’s not just marketing hype. An implant is essentially an artificial tooth root, typically made of titanium (though zirconia options exist), that’s surgically placed into your jawbone. Once the implant fuses with the bone, we attach an abutment and a custom-made crown (or bridge, or even a full-arch prosthesis) on top.

Why go through all this trouble instead of getting a bridge or denture? For starters, a dental implant:

Preserves Bone: Missing teeth lead to bone loss over time. Implants stimulate the jawbone similarly to natural tooth roots, preventing bone shrinkage.
Looks & Feels Natural: If done right, it’s nearly impossible for most people to spot the difference between a natural tooth and an implant.
Longevity: With proper care, implants can last 15–20 years or even a lifetime. Compare that to a bridge that might need replacing every 10 years or so.
No Impact on Nearby Teeth: Unlike dental bridges, implants don’t require grinding down adjacent teeth.

One of my patients from Matunga, Neha, told me she initially thought implants were only for the wealthy. After losing a front tooth in an accident, she was amazed at how cost-effective implants turned out to be in the long run—especially once she calculated the maintenance and replacement costs for dentures.

2. Pre-Surgery Consultation & Evaluation

Before we jump into the surgical details, let’s talk about what happens during that initial consultation:

Dental History & Physical Exam: I’ll take a thorough look at your mouth, teeth, and gums. We’ll discuss any relevant medical history like diabetes or hypertension because these can influence healing.
Imaging & Diagnostics: In 2025 Mumbai, we’re big on digital X-rays and CBCT scans (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) to get a 3D picture of your jawbone and nerves. This helps me see whether you have enough bone density to hold an implant without additional procedures like bone grafts or sinus lifts.
Treatment Planning: Based on what we find, we’ll decide if you need a single implant, multiple implants, or a full-arch solution (like All-on-4). We’ll also talk about cost, budget, and the timeline.

A personal anecdote: I once had a patient from Sewri named Amit who came in thinking he needed two implants. After the CBCT scan, we discovered he had lost significant bone density over the years. We decided on a bone graft first, then the implant. While it extended his overall treatment time, it vastly improved his final outcome.

3. Preparing for the Procedure

Dental implant surgery isn’t something you do on a whim. There are a few pre-operative steps to set you up for success:

Lifestyle Adjustments: If you’re a smoker, it’s advisable to cut down or quit before surgery because smoking slows down healing and increases infection risk. If you have diabetes, good glycemic control is crucial.
Medication Review: If you’re on blood thinners or other chronic medications, your dentist (me or any other implantologist you trust) needs to know. We might coordinate with your general physician to ensure it’s safe to proceed.
Day-Before Tips:
- If you’re opting for IV sedation or certain forms of anesthesia, you might need to fast (no food or drink) for a specific number of hours beforehand.
- Plan for transport to and from the clinic if you’re going to be sedated.
- Consider wearing comfortable clothing and tying back long hair if needed.

I remember a patient from Antop Hill who arrived for his surgery straight from a night shift at work, with no sleep. He was so exhausted that we decided to reschedule—adequate rest is important to ensure your body is ready for the procedure and subsequent healing.

4. Anesthesia & Sedation Options

One of the biggest anxieties people have about dental implant surgery is pain. Let’s put that worry to rest:

Local Anesthesia: This is standard for most implant surgeries. It’s the same kind of anesthesia used for fillings or extractions—it numbs the area around the implant site, ensuring you don’t feel pain.
Oral Sedation: If you’re nervous, a mild sedative pill can help take the edge off. You’ll be awake but relaxed.
IV Sedation (Conscious Sedation): Administered intravenously, it’s a deeper level of sedation but you’re still somewhat conscious and able to respond if needed. Many people don’t even remember parts of the procedure afterward.
General Anesthesia: Rarely used for routine implants unless you’re having multiple implants placed at once or have a severe dental phobia.

I once had a patient from Dadar, Rina, who was so anxious about needles that she almost backed out on surgery day. We settled on oral sedation, and she later told me she barely remembered the procedure. She joked that the only thing she regretted was not opting for sedation during all her previous dental appointments!

5. The Surgical Procedure: Step-by-Step

Alright, let’s dive into the main event. Here’s how a typical implant placement unfolds:

Incision & Access
- After anesthesia sets in, I make a small incision in your gum tissue to expose the underlying jawbone.
- This step sounds scarier than it is; you’ll only feel some pressure, not pain.
Drilling & Placement
- Using a special drill, we create a small channel in the jawbone that matches the diameter of the implant.
- The titanium post (the implant itself) is then screwed or tapped into this channel.
- Some modern procedures use computer-guided surgical stents to ensure pinpoint accuracy in placing the implant.
Abutment Attachment (In Some Cases)
- An abutment is a connector between the implant and the final crown. Sometimes we place it immediately, but in other cases, we wait until osseointegration is further along.
Suturing
- The gum tissue is sutured (stitched) back around the implant to protect it.
- If you’re having a bone graft or sinus lift, we’ll do that procedure right before or during the implant placement, depending on your treatment plan.
Temporary Crown or Bridge (Optional)
- If it’s a front tooth, we might place a temporary restoration to keep your smile intact during healing.
- This can be a removable denture or a temporary crown attached to the implant if the stability allows.

The entire procedure can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on how many implants you’re getting and whether additional procedures (like bone grafts) are needed.

6. Immediate Post-Surgery Care

Once the surgery is done, you’ll move into the recovery phase. Here’s what you can typically expect in the first few days:

Managing Discomfort
- Mild swelling and bruising are normal, particularly during the first 48–72 hours.
- Ice packs (15 minutes on, 15 minutes off) can help minimize swelling.
- Your dentist will prescribe painkillers (usually something like ibuprofen) and antibiotics if necessary.
Dietary Guidelines
- Soft foods (soups, dal, mashed vegetables, smoothies) are ideal for the first few days.
- Avoid anything too hot or spicy immediately post-surgery to reduce irritation.
- Stay hydrated, especially in Mumbai’s warmer months.
Activity Restrictions
- Plan to take it easy for a day or two. Vigorous exercise or heavy lifting can increase bleeding and swelling.
- If sedation was used, don’t drive or operate machinery for at least 24 hours.

A patient from Ghatkopar, Shreya, was so excited about getting her new tooth that she headed straight to a friend’s birthday party the next night—and regretted it when the loud music and dancing left her feeling sore and swollen. Lesson learned: A little rest goes a long way in ensuring a smooth recovery!

7. Osseointegration & Healing

Now comes the waiting game. Over the next few weeks to months, a process called osseointegration occurs, where your jawbone grows around the implant and secures it in place. This stage is crucial to the long-term success of your implant.

Bone Fusion Timeline
- It typically takes 3–6 months for implants to fully integrate.
- During this time, you should continue to follow your dentist’s advice about oral hygiene and diet.
Check-Up Visits
- You’ll likely have follow-up appointments to monitor healing. Stitches (if non-dissolvable) may be removed around 7–14 days after surgery.
- If you have a temporary crown, the dentist might adjust it to avoid undue pressure on the implant.
Temporary Prosthetics
- If the implant was placed in a visible area, you’re probably wearing a temporary crown or denture during this phase. Treat it gently, as you don’t want to stress the implant before it’s fully integrated.

One of my older patients from Dadar, Mr. Iyer, was skeptical about whether his jawbone would fuse properly due to his age (early 70s). Not only did his implant integrate beautifully, but he also told me that taking special care of his oral hygiene during this period left the rest of his teeth feeling healthier than ever!

8. Placing the Permanent Crown or Prosthesis

Once your implant is fully integrated and stable, it’s time for the final flourish: attaching the permanent restoration.

Abutment Fitting
- If the abutment wasn’t placed during the initial surgery, your dentist will expose the implant and attach it now. This step might require a small incision in the gum.
- The abutment protrudes above the gum line, ready to hold the crown, bridge, or dentures.
Crown Fabrication
- We’ll take an impression or a digital scan of your teeth and abutment to create a custom-made crown.
- Material options include porcelain-fused-to-metal, ceramic, or zirconia, each with its pros and cons in terms of aesthetics and durability.
Final Placement
- The crown (or other prosthesis) is either cemented or screwed onto the abutment.
- We check bite alignment, comfort, and aesthetics to ensure everything looks and feels natural.

Many patients from Matunga and Antop Hill have told me that the day they receive their permanent crown feels like winning the lottery—the transformation can be that dramatic. One patient even described it as “finally getting the sequel to a movie you’ve been waiting for years to see.”

9. Aftercare & Maintenance

Congrats—you’ve got your new tooth (or teeth)! But your journey isn’t over. Proper care is essential to keep your implant healthy for the long haul.

Oral Hygiene
- Brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss daily or use interdental brushes designed for implants to clean around the abutment.
- Some patients also benefit from a water flosser to gently remove plaque or food particles.
Regular Dental Visits
- Schedule professional cleanings and check-ups every 6 months (or as recommended).
- Even though implants can’t get cavities, the surrounding gum tissue can still become inflamed or infected (peri-implantitis).
Lifestyle Considerations
- Smoking cessation or at least reducing it can significantly improve the longevity of your implant.
- A balanced diet supports overall oral health—think fresh fruits, veggies, and lean proteins.

A quick anecdote: My patient, Sunita from Sewri, was an avid user of paan and occasionally smoked. After we placed her implant, she made a conscious effort to cut back significantly. She not only preserved her implant but also reported better overall health—and a new sense of accomplishment.

10. Cost & Financing in Mumbai

Let’s address the financial side of implants, as it’s a big concern for many:

Factors Influencing Cost
- Number of Implants: A single implant is cheaper than multiple.
- Materials Used: Titanium vs. zirconia, different crown materials, etc.
- Additional Procedures: Bone grafts, sinus lifts, or other treatments will add to the cost.
Clinic Location & Expertise
- In suburbs like Dadar, Matunga, Ghatkopar, or Sewri, the cost can vary significantly based on the clinic’s technology and dentist’s experience.
- A state-of-the-art facility with advanced imaging and computer-guided surgery might charge more, but you often get more precise outcomes.
Insurance & EMI Plans
- Dental insurance coverage is still limited in India, but some plans might offer partial coverage. Always check the fine print.
- Many clinics, including mine, offer EMI options or tie-ups with finance companies to make the cost more manageable.

One of my patients from Ghatkopar, Rahul, was worried about the price tag, but once he compared the long-term costs of repeated dentures/bridges, he realized that implants—paid over an EMI plan—actually saved him money in the grand scheme of things.

11. Common Questions & Concerns

“Does the surgery hurt?”
- With local anesthesia (and sedation if needed), most patients feel pressure but no pain. Post-surgery discomfort is typically manageable with painkillers and ice packs.
“Can the implant fail?”
- Implant failures are rare, with a success rate often quoted above 95%. Factors like poor oral hygiene, smoking, or uncontrolled diabetes can increase the risk.
“How long before I can go back to work?”
- Many people return to work the next day, especially if they only had a single implant. If multiple implants or sedation are involved, taking 1–2 days off might be prudent.
“What if I don’t have enough bone?”
- You might need a bone graft or sinus lift. Yes, it adds to the timeline, but it significantly increases the chance of long-term success.
“Do implants look fake?”
- A well-designed implant crown can be virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth. It all comes down to the expertise of your dentist and the quality of the materials.

12. Conclusion: Your Path to a Confident Smile

Losing a tooth can feel like losing a part of yourself—your smile, your ability to enjoy crunchy snacks at Dadar’s famous chaat stalls, or your ease in social situations. But the good news is that dental implant surgery has evolved tremendously over the years. From precise digital planning to innovative healing aids, getting an implant is now a routine, safe, and highly successful procedure.

As Dr Pauravi Hegde MDS, I’ve seen patients from all walks of life—from college students in Matunga to retired grandparents in Antop Hill—experience the transformative power of implants. Whether you need a single implant or a full mouth reconstruction, the steps are similar: consultation, preparation, surgery, healing, and final restoration. Yes, it requires commitment, both financially and in terms of time, but the end result can be life-changing: a restored smile that lets you eat, speak, and laugh without a second thought.

If you’ve been hesitating—maybe you’re anxious about pain, or worried about the cost—take this as your sign to explore your options. Book a consultation at a reputable dental clinic. Ask all the questions you can think of. Look into financing options. And remember, the earlier you address a missing tooth, the simpler (and more cost-effective) your treatment journey usually is.

Final Word

Your smile is uniquely yours, and it deserves the best care possible. Don’t let a missing tooth hold you back from enjoying the vibrant life that Mumbai has to offer—be it a spontaneous food crawl in Ghatkopar or a family gathering in Sewri. Dental implant surgery might sound intimidating, but armed with the right information and a skilled dentist, you’ll find it’s not only manageable but profoundly rewarding.

Ready to embark on the path to a confident smile? Schedule a consultation, ask questions, and take the first step toward regaining the freedom to eat, speak, and smile without worry. Life is too short—especially in a city as bustling and lively as Mumbai—to spend it hiding your smile.

(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes and does not replace individualized medical advice. Always consult with a qualified professional, such as Dr Pauravi Hegde MDS, for a personalized treatment plan.)

WhiteRock Dental Clinic
807 B, Lodha Supremus, New Cuffe Parade, Wadala East, Mumbai 400037, India