How a dental implant replaces a missing tooth
A dental implant is a fixture placed in the jaw to support a replacement tooth or bridge. It replaces the role of a tooth root. An abutment connects it to the visible restoration, such as a crown. Implant placement and the final crown are separate parts of treatment.
At ProDent in Nysa, the assessment covers your oral and general health, the available bone and the proposed restoration. We use implant systems including MegaGen BlueDiamond, with the choice explained as part of your individual plan.
Comparing replacement options
| Option | Points to discuss |
|---|---|
| Implant-supported crown | Requires surgery and healing; does not use neighbouring teeth as bridge supports |
| Tooth-supported bridge | May require preparation of adjacent teeth; suitability depends on those teeth |
| Removable denture | Removed for cleaning; support, stability and comfort depend on the design and mouth |
For a full arch of missing or unsalvageable teeth, All-on-X uses a fixed bridge on a planned number of implants. An implant is not needed for every replacement tooth.
Are implants suitable for you?
We assess the teeth and gums, bite, medical history, medicines and smoking. Imaging, including CBCT where indicated, helps evaluate the bone and nearby anatomical structures.
Active gum disease or other oral problems may need treatment first. Some patients need bone augmentation or a sinus lift before or alongside implant surgery. A chronic illness does not automatically rule out implants, but its control and the medicines you take can affect the plan. The dentist will discuss your specific risks and alternatives.
The stages of implant treatment
- Assessment and restoration planning. We decide what the implant will support and discuss the complete estimate.
- Preparation. This may include treatment of gum disease, extraction or bone grafting where required.
- Implant placement. The surgical procedure is normally carried out under local anaesthetic.
- Healing. Time is allowed for integration with the bone. An uncovering procedure may be needed, depending on the technique.
- Final restoration. Records are taken and the abutment and crown or bridge fitted once healing is satisfactory.
Healing often takes several months. Timing depends on the site, bone, additional procedures and your response to treatment. A temporary tooth or bridge may be considered, but it is not suitable in every case.
What does the price include?
The price of placing an implant is not automatically the price of a complete replacement tooth. Ask for a plan covering all required stages.
| Part of treatment | Possible components |
|---|---|
| Diagnosis and planning | Consultation, necessary imaging and treatment plan |
| Surgery | Implant placement and any additional procedures agreed in the plan |
| Restoration | Abutment and the selected crown or bridge |
| Interim care and reviews | Temporary restorations, healing checks and maintenance as specified |
See the implant price list. If you are replacing a whole arch, the All-on-4 and All-on-6 packages describe a different, combined treatment scope.
Risks and long-term care
Implant surgery can involve pain, swelling, infection, failure to integrate and, depending on the location, damage to nearby structures. Your clinician will explain risks relevant to your case. Smoking, a history of gum disease and poorly controlled diabetes can affect outcomes.
Implants need daily cleaning and regular professional review. Inflammation around an implant can damage the supporting bone; an implant is not immune to disease simply because it is artificial. Follow the cleaning instructions for your restoration and contact us if it becomes painful, loose or difficult to clean.
Common questions
How long does the whole process take?
Healing commonly takes around three to six months, but preparatory treatment, grafting and restoration stages can extend the total time. Your plan will give a case-specific estimate.
Can an implant be placed immediately after extraction?
Sometimes, when the local conditions are suitable. Immediate placement does not automatically mean an immediate final crown or unrestricted chewing.
Will an implant last for life?
No lifespan can be guaranteed. Oral hygiene, reviews, general health, the restoration and changes over time all matter. Some components may need maintenance or replacement.
Book an implant consultation or call 570 400 405. Read more in the Guy’s and St Thomas’ guide to dental implants.
