What it is
A dental implant is a small screw, usually made of titanium, placed in the upper or lower jawbone to replace the root of a lost tooth. Over the following weeks, the bone bonds to the surface of the implant — a process called osseointegration.
Once integrated, the implant supports a crown, a bridge or a denture, which may be fixed or removable.
When it may be recommended
- One, several or all of the teeth in a jaw are missing.
- Discomfort or lack of stability with a removable denture.
- When you want to avoid preparing healthy neighbouring teeth, as a conventional bridge requires.
Whether implants are suitable depends on the amount and quality of bone, the condition of the gums and your general health. That is why they are always preceded by a clinical examination and X-rays, which may include a dental CT scan (CBCT).
What happens
- Assessment appointment: medical history, examination, X-rays and an explanation of the options, including alternatives to implants.
- Planning: number and position of the implants and type of restoration. In some cases bone needs to be regenerated before or during surgery.
- Implant placement: surgery under local anaesthetic.
- Healing period: usually a few months. A temporary solution may be used.
- Final restoration: fitting the crown, bridge or denture, followed by regular check-ups and hygiene appointments.
Potential benefits
- Restores chewing function and appearance.
- A fixed solution, or a more stable removable denture.
- No need to prepare neighbouring teeth.
Limitations and precautions
- Not everyone is a candidate; some medical conditions and medicines need to be assessed first.
- Smoking and uncontrolled diabetes increase the risk of complications.
- The tissues around the implant can become inflamed (peri-implantitis) if hygiene and check-ups are not kept up.
- Like any surgery, it carries risks, which are explained at the appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Does it hurt?
The implant is placed under local anaesthetic. Discomfort in the following days is usually controlled with the medication prescribed by the dentist.
How long does it take?
It depends on the case and on whether bone needs to be regenerated. The expected timeframe is given in the treatment plan.
How much does it cost?
You receive a quote after the assessment appointment, because the cost depends on the number of implants and the type of restoration.
I was told I don’t have enough bone for implants. Is there still a solution?
A lack of bone does not necessarily mean there is no solution. There are different strategies for treating bone loss, from regeneration techniques and grafts to alternative anchorage solutions. The choice depends on your anatomy, your health, your goals, the surgical complexity and the risk–benefit balance of each alternative. A second assessment can help you understand the options available in your case.
What does the implant consultation include?
It may include your medical history and a discussion of your expectations, a clinical examination, a dental and periodontal assessment, X-rays (with a CT/CBCT scan when needed), a three-dimensional assessment of the available bone, a discussion of the different options and an individual treatment plan.
What is an All-on-X restoration?
It restores a complete arch with a fixed prosthesis supported by a strategically planned number of implants. It may be recommended for people with extensive tooth loss or no teeth, after clinical and radiological assessment.
What is a sinus lift?
It is a procedure that increases the amount of bone in the back of the upper jaw so that implants can be placed in selected cases.
What are pterygoid and zygomatic implants?
They are alternative anchorage options for specific cases of an atrophic upper jaw: pterygoid implants provide support at the back of the upper jaw, and zygomatic implants are anchored in the cheekbone (zygomatic bone). They are only considered after careful diagnosis and planning, when conventional solutions are not suitable. Not every patient needs the most complex techniques: we look for the most predictable solution, with no more complexity than is strictly necessary.
What is digital planning for?
In complex cases, three-dimensional planning makes it possible to assess important anatomical structures, the available bone and the possible implant paths before surgery. It helps define the surgical and prosthetic strategy.
Does treatment end with the surgery?
No. The outcome of an implant restoration depends on bringing together surgery, prosthetics, function, appearance, hygiene and maintenance. That is why planning starts from the intended prosthetic result and includes regular check-ups and hygiene appointments.
Results and treatment times vary from person to person. Treatment is only recommended after an assessment appointment.