Implant treatment usually takes place over several stages, with healing time between appointments. The overall timeline varies according to your individual treatment plan, how quickly the implant integrates with the surrounding bone and whether additional procedures such as extraction or bone grafting are required. Following your assessment, we’ll explain the expected stages and likely treatment time for your individual case.
Many adults with one or more missing teeth may be suitable for dental implants, but a detailed assessment is essential.
We’ll assess your teeth, gums, bite, available bone and relevant medical history before recommending treatment. Factors such as gum health, smoking, certain medical conditions and the amount of available bone can affect treatment planning and implant success. If additional treatment is needed before implant placement, we’ll explain this as part of your personalised plan.
Dental implant treatment has a strong clinical track record, but as with any surgical procedure, it carries risks and success cannot be guaranteed. Possible complications include infection, delayed healing, implant failure or loss, gum or bone problems and damage to nearby teeth or structures. Depending on the position of the implant, there can also be risks involving nerves or the sinus.
Your individual risks depend on factors including your anatomy, oral and general health, smoking status and the treatment required. These will be assessed and discussed with you as part of the consent and treatment-planning process before you decide whether to proceed.
Dental implants are not the only way to replace missing teeth, and they may not be the right option for everyone.
Depending on your individual circumstances, alternatives may include a dental bridge, a removable denture, or, in some situations, choosing to leave the space and monitor it.
Where a tooth is still present, preserving and restoring your natural tooth may also be preferable to removing it and replacing it with an implant where this is clinically achievable. We’ll discuss the appropriate options, including their advantages, limitations and likely long-term maintenance, so that you can make an informed decision.
Dental implants are designed as a long-term treatment, but their lifespan varies, and no implant can be guaranteed to last for life. Long-term success depends on factors including oral hygiene, gum and bone health, smoking, general health, bite forces and regular professional maintenance. With good home care and ongoing dental and hygiene reviews, implants can function successfully for many years. The crown or other restoration attached to the implant may require maintenance or replacement over time.
We understand that implant treatment can represent a significant investment. Flexible finance options may be available to help spread the cost of treatment, subject to eligibility, terms and the finance arrangements available at the time. We’ll always provide your full treatment plan and costs before you decide whether to proceed.