Dental Implants FAQ

❓ What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. They provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures, that look and function like natural teeth.

❓ Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Dental Implants?

Most adults with good general and oral health are suitable candidates for dental implants. Adequate jawbone density and healthy gums are essential. However, certain conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or heavy smoking may affect eligibility. A thorough assessment by your dentist will determine your suitability. ​

❓ What Is the Procedure for Getting Dental Implants?

The dental implant process typically involves several stages:​

1. Consultation and Planning: Comprehensive examination and imaging to assess suitability.​

2. Implant Placement: Surgical insertion of the titanium implant into the jawbone under local anaesthesia.

3. Healing Period: Several months to allow the implant to integrate with the bone (osseointegration).​

4. Abutment Placement: Attachment of a connector post to the implant.​

5. Prosthetic Attachment: Fitting of the custom-made crown, bridge, or denture.​

The entire process can span several months, depending on individual healing and treatment plans. ​

❓ Are Dental Implants Noticeable?

No, dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function like your natural teeth. The prosthetic teeth are custom-made to match the colour and shape of your existing teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable. ​

❓ How Do I Care for My Dental Implants?

Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth:​

• Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush.​

• Floss daily to remove plaque from between teeth.​

• Attend regular dental check-ups and cleanings.

• Avoid chewing hard items like ice or pens to prevent damage.​

Proper oral hygiene helps ensure the longevity of your implants. ​

❓ What Are the Risks Associated with Dental Implants?

While dental implants have a high success rate, potential risks include:​

• Infection at the implant site.​

• Injury to surrounding teeth or blood vessels.

• Nerve damage, leading to pain or numbness.

• Sinus problems, if implants in the upper jaw protrude into sinus cavities.​

Discussing these risks with your dentist can help you make an informed decision. ​

❓ Can Dental Implants Fail?

While uncommon, dental implant failure can occur due to factors such as:​

• Poor oral hygiene leading to infection.​

• Insufficient bone density.​

• Excessive stress on the implant from teeth grinding.​

• Smoking, which impairs healing.​

Regular dental visits and proper care can minimise the risk of failure. ​

❓ Will I Be Without Teeth During the Implant Process?

In many cases, temporary teeth can be placed during the healing period, so you won't be without teeth. Your dentist will discuss the best options based on your specific situation. ​

❓ How Do Dental Implants Compare to Other Tooth Replacement Options?

Dental implants offer several advantages over alternatives like dentures and bridges:​

• Stability: Implants are anchored in the jawbone, providing a secure fit without slipping.

• Bone Preservation: They stimulate bone growth, preventing bone loss.​

• Longevity: With proper care, implants can last a lifetime.​

• Aesthetics: They look and feel like natural teeth.​

However, implants require surgery and may involve a longer treatment time compared to other options. ​

❓ Can I Get Dental Implants If I Have Gum Disease?

Active gum disease needs to be treated before implant placement, as healthy gums are crucial for the success of the implant. Your dentist will evaluate your gum health and recommend appropriate treatment prior to proceeding with implants. ​

❓ How Soon After Tooth Extraction Can I Have an Implant?

In some cases, an implant can be placed immediately after tooth extraction. However, if there is infection or insufficient bone, a healing period of several weeks to months may be required before implant placement. ​

❓ Are There Any Age Restrictions for Dental Implants?

While there is no upper age limit, implants are typically not recommended for younger individuals whose jawbones are still developing. Generally, implants are considered for those whose jaw growth is complete. ​

❓ Do dental implants hurt?

The procedure itself is usually pain-free thanks to local anaesthetic. You may feel some mild discomfort or swelling afterwards, but this typically settles within a few days and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.

❓ How long do implants last?

With good care and regular dental check-ups, implants can last 20 years or more — many patients keep them for life. They’re designed to be a permanent, long-term solution.

❓ Am I too old for dental implants?

There’s no upper age limit for implants. As long as you’re in good general health and have enough bone, you’re likely to be suitable — we regularly treat patients in their 60s, 70s and beyond.

❓ How soon can I eat after getting implants?

We recommend sticking to soft foods for the first few days after surgery. Once your implants have healed and your final teeth are in place, you’ll be able to eat normally again — including tougher foods you may have been avoiding.

❓ What’s the success rate of dental implants?

Dental implants have a very high success rate — typically around 95–98%. Choosing a skilled, experienced dentist increases your chances of a long-lasting result.

❓ How much do dental implants cost?

Costs vary depending on the number of implants and the type of restoration you need. As a guide, a single implant starts from £2,200. We offer free consultations and finance options to help spread the cost.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants

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Dental Implants

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