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Dental implants: what to expect, step by step
How an implant replaces a missing tooth, who it suits, and what each stage of treatment involves.
Supriya Multispeciality Dental Clinic, Published
A dental implant is a small post, usually titanium, placed in the jawbone where a tooth is missing. Once it has joined with the bone, it holds a crown that looks and works much like a natural tooth.
Who implants may suit
Implants can work well for adults who have lost one or more teeth and have healthy gums and enough bone to support the post. Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes and gum disease can affect healing, so these are discussed and managed before treatment is planned.
The stages of treatment
- Consultation and planning — an examination and X-rays or a scan to check the bone
- Placing the implant — a minor procedure under local anaesthetic
- Healing — usually a few months while the implant bonds with the bone
- Fitting the crown — a custom tooth is attached to the implant
Implants compared with bridges and dentures
A bridge relies on the teeth either side of a gap, which usually need to be shaped for crowns. A denture is removable and quicker to make. An implant stands on its own and does not involve the neighbouring teeth, but it takes longer and needs enough healthy bone. The right choice depends on your mouth, your health and your preferences.
Looking after an implant
Clean around an implant as carefully as a natural tooth: brush twice a day, clean between teeth daily and keep up regular check-ups. Healthy gums around the implant are what keep it stable for the long term.
This article is general information and isn’t a substitute for advice from a dentist who has examined you. Treatment suitability is determined after an in-person dental consultation.