Getting Dental Implants in Tokyo as an International Patient

Getting a dental implant is a big decision, and doing it in a foreign country can feel like an even bigger one. As an English-speaking dentist in Ginza who focuses on implant treatment, I want to explain how the process works in Tokyo, how long it takes, and what to ask before you start.

Is an implant right for you?

An implant replaces a missing tooth root with a small titanium post that supports a crown. It can be an option if you have lost a tooth, have a loose bridge, or find dentures uncomfortable. Before treatment, we check your bone with a 3D CT scan and review your general health. If there is not enough bone, a bone graft or sinus lift may be needed first.

The treatment step by step

1. Consultation and CT scan, with everything explained in English

2. Digital planning and, when needed, a surgical guide

3. Implant placement under local anesthesia, with a mild anti-anxiety medication; nitrous oxide or IV sedation is also available

4. Healing for about 3 to 6 months while the implant bonds with the bone

5. Abutment and provisional crown, to check your bite and appearance

6. Final crown, followed by regular maintenance visits

What if you might leave Japan?

Many of my patients are in Tokyo for a few years. Tell us your timeline at the first consultation, and we will plan the steps around your stay. We use implants from Nobel Biocare, Straumann or BioHorizons, brands used in many countries, and we give you your records so your next dentist can continue your care.

How much does it cost?

Implant treatment is private (self-pay) and not covered by Japanese health insurance. At our clinic, one implant with a full zirconia crown costs about ¥700,000 before tax, plus the CT scan, surgical guide and any bone graft. You can see the full price list on our Services page, and we give you a written estimate before treatment.

Possible risks

Like any surgery, implant treatment has risks, including swelling and pain for a few days, infection, numbness if a nerve is affected, and, rarely, an implant that does not bond with the bone. Without regular maintenance, the gum and bone around an implant can become inflamed (peri-implantitis). We explain these risks and how we reduce them at your consultation.

Questions to ask any implant dentist

• Which implant brand will you use?

• Will you take a CT scan before planning?

• What is the total cost, including the crown and any bone graft?

• How long will treatment take, and how many visits will I need?

• What maintenance will I need afterwards?

If you are considering dental implants in Ginza, Tokyo, you can book a consultation in English at hitomidentist.com/book-online.