Dental implants work by placing a small titanium post into the jawbone, where it acts like a natural tooth root to support a replacement tooth that looks, feels and functions like a real tooth. Around 98% of modern implants are successful, which is one reason they have become such a popular option for replacing missing teeth.
Losing a tooth can change everyday things more than people expect. Eating certain foods may become awkward, speech can alter slightly and some patients notice a loss of confidence when smiling. Dental implants are designed to solve those problems by replacing the missing root as well as the visible part of the tooth. Unlike removable dentures, implants stay fixed in place and feel far closer to natural teeth.
What Happens At The First Implant Appointment?
Every implant journey begins with careful planning. We check the condition of the gums, examine the surrounding teeth and study the jawbone using digital imaging. These scans help determine whether there is enough healthy bone to hold the implant securely.
Some patients are suitable for treatment immediately, while others may need preparatory care beforehand. If bone has shrunk after tooth loss, a grafting procedure may be suggested to strengthen the area before the implant is placed.
Across the UK, dentists place well over 100,000 implants each year, reflecting growing confidence in the treatment among both clinicians and patients.
Every implant journey begins with careful planning. We check the condition of the gums, examine the surrounding teeth and study the jawbone using digital imaging.
How Is A Dental Implant Actually Fitted?
The procedure itself is more straightforward than many people imagine. After the area has been numbed with local anaesthetic, the implant is inserted into the jaw through a small opening in the gum. The titanium post then sits beneath the surface, acting like an artificial root.
Patients are often surprised by how little discomfort they experience during treatment. Many compare it to having a routine dental procedure rather than surgery. Once the implant is positioned correctly, the gum is allowed to heal around it.
Treatment times vary, although a single implant can often be placed within one appointment.
What Happens While The Implant Heals?
Healing is one of the most important stages of the process. Over the following months, the jawbone gradually fuses to the titanium surface in a natural biological reaction known as osseointegration. This creates the strength and stability implants are known for.
During this period, patients may wear a temporary tooth so the smile still appears complete. Our team will monitor healing closely to ensure the implant integrates properly.
Long term studies have shown that more than 90% of implants are still functioning successfully after a decade, particularly when patients maintain healthy gums and good oral hygiene habits.
How Is The New Tooth Added?
Once healing is complete, the final stage can begin. A connecting component is attached to the implant before the custom made crown is fitted on top. The crown is carefully designed to blend with nearby teeth in shape, shade and size.
The finished result is intended to feel natural when speaking and eating. Because implants sit within the jawbone, they also help reduce the bone shrinkage that often follows tooth loss. Research indicates that implants can reduce jawbone deterioration significantly when compared with traditional dentures.
A connecting component is attached to the implant before the custom made crown is fitted on top. The crown is carefully designed to blend with nearby teeth in shape, shade and size.
Are Dental Implants Painful Afterwards?
It is normal to experience slight tenderness once the anaesthetic wears off, although this is usually temporary. Swelling and mild bruising may occur for a few days, but most patients manage recovery comfortably with ordinary pain relief and a soft food diet.
People are frequently surprised by how quickly they return to normal activities. Following aftercare advice carefully can make the healing process smoother and help to protect the implant long term.
Who Can Have Dental Implants?
Dental implants are suitable for many adults, although suitability depends on individual oral health. Healthy gums and strong bone support are both important factors. Smokers and patients with untreated gum disease may face a higher risk of complications, which is why specialist assessment matters.
Implants can be used to replace one missing tooth, several teeth or even a full arch, depending on the patient’s needs. Because every smile is different, treatment plans are always tailored individually.
Final Thoughts
Choosing to have a dental implant is rarely just about replacing a tooth. For many people, it is about being able to eat comfortably again, smile without thinking about gaps and feel more like themselves day to day. Although treatment may take place over several stages, the end result can feel remarkably natural once healing is complete.
Patients considering implants can visit The Perio Centre in Harley Street, London, where Dr Simon Stern provides specialist care for missing teeth and complex periodontal cases. Each treatment plan is created around the individual patient, with close attention paid to long term gum health, comfort and appearance throughout the process.
Dr Simon Stern is a registered Specialist Periodontist at The Perio Centre. His qualifications include BDS MJDF RCS (Eng) MClinDent MPerio RCS (Ed). He lectures at both national and international conferences, and has published papers in several well-respected journals.
