Implant treatments
What each treatment involves, who it suits and what to expect, so your consultation starts with the right questions.
Demonstration concept General information about a fictional practice
How an implant works
A small titanium post placed in the jaw, where it bonds with the bone over a few months.
A precise connector that joins the implant to the visible tooth above the gum.
A crown, bridge or full arch, designed to match your smile and your bite.
Treatment options
Your clinician recommends the approach that suits your mouth, your health and your priorities. These summaries help you know what to ask.
When one tooth is missing or cannot be saved, a single implant with a crown replaces it without involving the teeth on either side.
What to expect: usually two to four visits over three to six months, including healing time.
Where several neighbouring teeth are missing, two or more implants can support a bridge, so fewer implants replace more teeth.
What to expect: similar to a single implant, with the bridge fitted once the implants have integrated.
For people missing most or all of their teeth in a jaw, or whose teeth are failing, a complete arch of fixed teeth is supported by four to six implants.
What to expect: temporary fixed teeth are often fitted on the day of surgery, with final teeth fitted after healing.
A denture that clips onto two to four implants. It stays secure while you eat and speak, and lifts out for cleaning.
What to expect: existing dentures can sometimes be adapted; otherwise new dentures are made once the implants have healed.
After teeth are lost, the jaw bone can shrink. Grafting rebuilds the bone so implants have a secure foundation; a sinus lift adds bone in the upper back jaw.
What to expect: sometimes carried out at the same time as implant placement, sometimes a few months before.
Questions
Most adults with missing teeth can be considered. Suitability depends on your general health, gum health and bone, which is why every plan starts with a consultation and a 3D scan.
Treatment is carried out under local anaesthetic, and sedation can be arranged. Most people describe some tenderness for a few days afterwards, managed with ordinary pain relief.
With good daily care and regular reviews, implants can last for many years. The crown, bridge or denture attached to them may need maintenance or replacement over time.
Cost depends on the number of implants, any bone grafting and the type of teeth. This demonstration does not show prices: a live practice would provide a written, itemised quote after consultation.
From consultation to final teeth usually takes three to nine months, depending on healing and whether grafting is needed. Temporary teeth mean you are not left with gaps.
Bone loss or previous problems can make treatment more complex, but not always impossible. A fresh assessment with 3D imaging shows what is realistic.
General information for a demonstration website. Not clinical advice.
A consultation is the calm first step, with no obligation to go ahead.
