Step 3. Implant uncovery
At the institute
A short second visit to uncover the healed implant and fit a healing cap that shapes the gum. Not every case needs it.
If the implant was covered by the gum while the bone healed, a second short procedure is needed. It is called implant uncovery, or second-stage surgery, because the gum is opened to find the implant.
What happens
The small cover screw that protected the inside of the implant is removed and replaced with a healing abutment. Stitches are often used to hold the gum edges still while they heal around it.
Why the healing abutment matters
Healing abutments come in different heights. Their job is to shape the gum as it heals, so your final tooth looks like it grows naturally out of the gum and feels more comfortable.
Healing
If stitches were used, they come out after about two weeks. The gums then heal for about one more week before final impressions.
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