Dental Implant FAQs

1. What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a small titanium screw which is placed in the upper or lower jawbone. The implant acts as a root to support crowns, bridges or dentures to replace one or more missing teeth.

2. How long will dental implants last?

With routine check ups and the following of home care instructions as advised by your dentist, dental implants should last many, many years.

3. What is the success rate of dental implants?

The success rate is 96% in a healthy person. Should an implant fail to integrate, we will replace it at no extra cost.

4. How much do dental implants cost?

The cost of a single dental implant is usually between £1,900 and £2,100. This is split between implant placement and the final restoration. After careful treatment planning we will be able to advise on how many implants you may need and estimate the cost involved.
Be driven by the benefits not cost!

5. How can I tell if I am healthy enough to have dental implants?

Generally speaking, if a person has good health and is able to undergo surgery for routine bridgework or routine tooth extractions, the same person can receive dental implants. If the patient is taking any form of medication they should alert us in the medical questionnaire that we use. There are very few medical conditions that would prevent you from having an implant.

6. Is the placement of dental implants painful?

No, dental implant placement is a very gentle procedure, normally carried out under a local anaesthetic, and in most cases a mild sedative. In surgical terms, it is similar to a wisdom tooth removal.

7. How long will the procedure take?

Approximately 30 minutes for each implant placed.

8. Will I experience pain after the procedure?

There may be some slight discomfort and perhaps swelling for a short period which can be relieved with painkillers. Patients are usually given antibiotics and mild steroids for their comfort. Most of our patients report little or no discomfort.

9. How will we know if the dental implant has worked?

In the rare case of an implant not integrating with the bone, the implant will have slight movement which the dentist will be able to detect.

10. What will happen if the dental implant fails?

In most cases the implant would be replaced. We would advise you based on the clinical factors involved.

11. Will I have to pay for the dental implant again?

In almost all cases no. We would only ask you to contribute to the cost if you have manifestly ignored our instructions in caring for the implant, or have not allowed us to provide remedial treatment.

12. How long does the whole dental implant procedure take?

3-9 months as a general guideline. We will provide a full treatment plan and a more accurate time scale.

13. How soon can I return to work after dental implant placement?

Normally after 24 hours. We will advise you - this really depends on each individual case.

14. Do dental implants require special care?

Like natural teeth and gums, implants need a good oral hygiene programme and regular checks by your dentist. We will provide full written instructions on how to care for the final restoration.

15. Follow up care?

You will need to see the hygienist at regular intervals following completion of the implant as advised by your dentist. Good oral hygiene is the key to the long term success of your dental implants.