Treatment · Dental Implants
Replacing missing teeth, step by careful step.
A dental implant is one way to replace a missing tooth with a fixed restoration. Whether it’s the right option for you depends on your health, your bone and gums, and your preferences, so it always starts with a thorough assessment.
- Often includes
- Assessment, imaging, implant placement and a crown, bridge or denture
- Who it’s for
- Adults missing one or more teeth, after a full assessment
- First step
- An implant consultation to discuss all of your options
Overview
What a dental implant is
An implant is a small post, usually titanium, placed in the jawbone where a tooth is missing. Once it has healed, it can support a crown, a bridge or a denture.
Implants are one of several ways to replace missing teeth, alongside bridges and dentures. Each has advantages and limitations, and your dentist will explain them side by side so you can make an informed choice.
Implant treatment is usually completed in stages over several months, with healing time between them. Your plan will set out what each stage involves and the full cost before anything begins.
Why patients enquire
Why patients ask about implants
- A missing tooth A gap from an extraction, an accident or a tooth that never developed.
- A loose denture Wondering whether implants could help a denture feel more secure.
- An alternative to a bridge Exploring options that don’t involve preparing neighbouring teeth.
- A failing tooth A tooth that may need removing and replacing.
- Eating comfortably Difficulty chewing some foods since losing a tooth.
- Comparing options Simply wanting to understand all the choices before deciding.
The process
What it generally involves
Every plan is individual. This is the usual shape of treatment; your dentist will explain exactly what applies to you.
01
Consultation and imaging
A full examination, a review of your medical history in person, and scans to assess the bone.
02
A written plan
All suitable options, the stages, the timescale and the costs, written down for you to consider.
03
Placement and healing
If you go ahead, the implant is placed and given time to heal, with reviews along the way.
04
Restoration and aftercare
The crown, bridge or denture is fitted, followed by advice on cleaning and regular reviews.
Is it right for me?
Implants are not suitable for everyone. General health, smoking, gum health and the amount of available bone all affect suitability and outcomes. Only an assessment by a qualified dental professional can tell you whether implants are an option for you.
Questions
Questions about dental implants
Can’t see your question? Call the practice and speak to someone who can help, or browse all FAQs.
Am I suitable for dental implants?
It depends on several factors, including your general health, gums and jawbone. Your dentist can only advise after a full assessment, which may include scans.
Is implant treatment painful?
Placement is carried out under local anaesthetic, and options for anxious patients can be discussed. Some discomfort afterwards is common; your dentist will explain what to expect and how to manage it.
How long does treatment take?
It is usually staged over several months to allow healing. Your written plan will give an estimated timeline for your case.
How long do implants last?
This varies between patients and depends on home care, general health and regular reviews. Your dentist will explain the maintenance involved.
Related
Related treatments
Appointments
Talk to us about dental implants.
Request a consultation and your dentist will assess whether this treatment suits you and explain every option.
Opening hours
| Monday – Thursday | 8:00am – 6:00pm |
|---|---|
| Friday | 8:00am – 4:00pm |
| Saturday | Selected mornings, by appointment |
| Sunday | Closed |
New patients welcome. For urgent dental pain, please call rather than using the form.