Dental implants: 18 frequently asked questions

We have gathered here the questions our patients ask most often at Implant Centre La Jonquera, especially those who cross the border from France to be treated in Spain. If your question is not listed, call us on +34 972 555 593 or write to us from the contact page.

Before the treatment

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

Most healthy adults are. You need healthy gums and enough bone in the area where the implant will be placed. Conditions such as poorly controlled diabetes, certain osteoporosis treatments or active smoking can complicate healing. At your first visit we assess your case with an examination and a scan.

Is there an age limit for implants?

There is no upper age limit. The only requirement is that bone growth has finished, which usually happens around 18 years of age. We frequently treat patients in their 60s, 70s and 80s with good results.

What tests are done before placing the implant?

A dental scan (CBCT) to measure the bone and plan the implant precisely. In some cases, a blood test. These tests are carried out at the clinic and are included in the estimate.

And if I don't have enough bone?

It can be regenerated. The most common techniques are bone grafting and sinus lift. We assess your situation with the scan and explain whether your case requires it before starting.

The surgery

Is it painful to have an implant placed?

The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, so you do not feel pain during the surgery. Discomfort and inflammation may appear in the following days; we manage them with prescribed pain relief. Most patients resume their routine the next day.

How long does the procedure take?

Between 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the number of implants and the complexity of the case. Several implants can be placed in a single session.

Is sedation needed?

It is not necessary for a standard procedure. If the patient prefers it due to anxiety or the scope of the treatment, we discuss conscious sedation options.

Timeline and process

How long does the whole treatment take?

From placing the implant to the final crown, the process takes between 2 and 6 months, the time the bone needs to integrate with the implant (osseointegration). During this period we schedule follow-up visits approximately every 6 weeks.

Will I be without teeth during healing?

No. During the waiting period we can place a temporary prosthesis so that you don't notice the gap, either in your mouth or in your smile.

How many appointments in total?

For a single implant with a crown, between 4 and 6 visits: assessment, surgery, check-ups and prosthetic phase. For full treatments (multiple implants or full arches), the number increases proportionally.

Price and reimbursement

How much does a dental implant cost?

The price depends on the number of implants, the type of crown and whether bone regeneration is required. We provide a closed estimate after the first visit, covering every phase. You can consult our indicative prices or request a personalised assessment.

Why is there such a difference in prices between clinics?

The difference usually comes from the implant brand, the crown materials (zirconia, metal-ceramic) and the experience of the team. We work with implant brands that offer a long-term guarantee; we always detail this in the estimate.

Does the French national health insurance (CPAM) reimburse implants placed in Spain?

CPAM does not reimburse the implant itself, neither in France nor abroad, because it is considered an act outside the nomenclature. It can, however, partially reimburse the crown on the implant, according to the rates set by the 100% Santé reform. For reimbursement to be possible, the clinic must issue a detailed invoice with compatible codes; we prepare it for you.

And my French complementary health insurance (mutuelle)?

Most mutuelles cover part of the implant and the crown, with rates that vary significantly depending on the contract. We provide a detailed estimate so that your insurance can confirm the reimbursement amount before treatment begins.

What documents do I need to take back to France for reimbursement?

The detailed invoice with CCAM codes where applicable, the proof of payment and, if your insurance requires it, a prior estimate (devis). We provide it signed and stamped at the clinic.

After the implant

What aftercare do I need?

Ice locally for the first hours, a soft diet for the first days, avoid vigorous mouth rinsing for 24 hours and maintain gentle hygiene in the area. We provide written instructions and a contact number in case of any doubt.

How long do implants last?

More than 95% of implants remain functional after 10 years with proper maintenance. The component that wears out first is the crown, not the implant.

Do they need to be checked every year?

Yes. The annual check-up makes it possible to detect issues such as gum recession or bone loss around the implant (peri-implantitis) early, which have a better prognosis when caught soon. We cover this in the implant maintenance article.

If your situation requires a personalised assessment, you can request a first visit with no commitment from the contact page or call us on +34 972 555 593. We work in English, Spanish, French and Catalan.