Dental implants
A dental implant is a small titanium post placed in the jawbone where a tooth root used to be. Once it has bonded with the bone, a crown is fixed on top. It does not rely on the neighbouring teeth for support.
Implants may suit you if
- You have one or more missing teeth
- You want a fixed tooth rather than one you remove
- Your gums are healthy, or can be treated first
- There is enough jawbone to hold the implant, or it can be built up
- You want to stabilise a loose denture
Smoking and poorly controlled diabetes can slow healing and affect the result, so tell us about your health and medicines at the first visit.
What happens, step by step
- Consultation and planning
We examine your mouth, check the gums and take X-rays to see how much bone there is. A 3D scan may be advised for some cases.
- Placing the implant
The implant is placed into the jawbone under local anaesthetic.
- Healing
The bone grows onto the implant surface. This usually takes a few months, and you are not left with a gap at the front while it happens.
- The crown
Once the implant is stable, an impression is taken and a crown is made and fitted.
- Check-ups
We review the implant and gums at regular check-ups.
How many visits? Several visits spread over a few months, mostly because of the healing time.
Afterwards
- Expect some swelling and tenderness for a few days after placement.
- Stick to soft food on that side at first, and do not smoke.
- Clean around the implant as carefully as a natural tooth: brushing, and floss or interdental brushes.
- Keep your regular check-ups; gum disease can affect implants too.
When to get help quickly. Bleeding that will not stop with firm pressure, or swelling and pain that keep getting worse after the first few days, are reasons to call us.
Doctors who provide dental implants
Questions about dental implants
How long does the whole process take?
Usually several months from placement to the final crown, mostly waiting for the bone to heal around the implant. Your plan will give you a realistic timeline.
Am I too old for an implant?
Age alone is rarely the barrier. General health, gum health and the amount of bone matter more.
Implant or bridge: which is better?
An implant does not need the neighbouring teeth to be cut down, while a bridge is quicker and does not involve surgery. We will go through both for your situation.
Can implants hold a denture in place?
Yes. A small number of implants can be used to anchor a denture so it does not move when you eat or speak.
Clinical content reviewed by Dr. Navin Sah. This page explains the treatment in general terms. Your own plan is decided after an examination.
Ready for a healthier smile?
Book online, send a WhatsApp message or call. We are open 7:30 AM – 7:30 PM, every day.