Dental Implants
We complete your missing teeth with confidence, giving you back your chewing function and your aesthetic smile. A missing tooth often affects more than it seems: chewing shifts to one side, and neighbouring teeth may gradually begin to tilt towards the gap. An implant is one of the ways of completing that gap from the root. On this page we explain what an implant is, the general outline of the process and why an examination comes first.
What is an implant?
An implant is a titanium screw placed in the jaw bone in place of missing teeth, imitating the root of a natural tooth. With the porcelain teeth placed on top, both a sturdy and a natural appearance is achieved.
It can be used to complete a single missing tooth, and it can also be used to support prostheses where several teeth are missing. Which one suits you depends on the condition of your mouth.
This treatment is the most permanent and comfortable way of resolving the gap without harming the neighbouring teeth. At the first examination your jaw structure is examined and a plan specific to you is made.
How does the process go?
Your implant journey, step by step
Examination and assessment
An intra-oral examination is carried out and imaging is requested if necessary. Your bone structure and general health determine whether an implant is suitable for you.
Placement
The implant is placed in the jaw bone, generally with a surgical procedure performed under local anaesthetic.
Healing
A period of a few months is generally waited for the implant to fuse with the bone.
Fitting the permanent tooth
Once healing is complete, your measurements are taken and your specially prepared permanent tooth is fixed onto the implant.
The timing of each step varies from person to person. Your dentist will explain your personal timetable after the examination.
It may not suit everyone
An implant isn't the right option in every case. The amount and structure of the jawbone, the health of your gums and your general health all shape this decision, and the decision is made only after your dentist's assessment.
When you come for your examination, telling your dentist about the medicines you take and any significant health conditions you've had is part of making the right decision. You don't need to write these in the form or in an email; they're discussed in person at the examination.
Frequently asked questions
Is implant surgery painful?
Because the procedure is performed under local anaesthetic, it is carried out while you are awake. No pain is felt during the operation; mild sensitivity afterwards is normal.
How long does the treatment take?
Depending on the bone structure and the speed of healing, the whole process is generally completed within a few months.
Can everyone have an implant?
It can be applied with confidence to adults whose jaw development is complete and whose general health is suitable.
Our other treatments
The first step is an examination
Apply now to speak with our expert doctors and to have an examination.