What Is Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small post, usually made of titanium, placed in the jawbone where a tooth is missing. Over time the bone bonds to the implant, creating a stable base.
A crown, bridge or denture is then attached to the implant. Unlike a traditional bridge, an implant usually doesn’t require reshaping the neighbouring teeth.
Treatment Options
Single tooth implant
One implant supporting one crown.
Implant-supported bridge
Two or more implants supporting several replacement teeth.
Implant-retained denture
A denture that clips onto implants for better stability.
Why You May Need It
- One or more teeth are missing due to decay, gum disease or injury
- A tooth needs to be removed and you want a fixed replacement
- A removable denture feels loose or uncomfortable
- You want to avoid preparing healthy neighbouring teeth for a bridge
Common Symptoms
- A gap that makes chewing difficult on one side
- Neighbouring teeth drifting or tilting into a gap
- Feeling self-conscious about a missing tooth when smiling
- A loose, uncomfortable denture
When You Should See a Dentist
- Ideally soon after losing a tooth — bone can shrink over time where a tooth is missing, which can affect options.
- Before a planned extraction, so replacement can be planned in advance.
How Dental Implants Works
- Step 1
Consultation & assessment
Discussion of your goals, medical history and examination of your gums, bite and remaining teeth.
- Step 2
Imaging & planning
X-rays or 3D imaging help assess bone volume and plan the implant position. Additional steps such as bone grafting are discussed if needed.
- Step 3
Implant placement
The implant is placed under local anaesthetic in a minor surgical procedure.
- Step 4
Healing
The bone usually needs a few months to bond with the implant. A temporary tooth may be possible in some cases.
- Step 5
Final restoration
A custom crown, bridge or denture is attached and your bite is adjusted.
What Does It Feel Like?
Implant placement is done with local anaesthetic, so you should feel pressure but not sharp pain. Afterwards, soreness and some swelling for a few days are common and are usually managed with pain relief your dentist recommends.
How Long Does It Take?
From placement to final tooth commonly takes around 3–6 months, depending on healing and whether bone grafting is needed. Your dentist will give you a personalised timeline.
Aftercare
- Follow the post-surgery instructions carefully, including soft foods for the first few days.
- Avoid smoking — it can significantly affect healing and long-term implant success.
- Clean around the implant daily, just like natural teeth, including between teeth.
- Attend regular check-ups so the implant and gums can be monitored.
Benefits
- Fixed in place — no removing at night
- Looks and functions much like a natural tooth
- Usually no need to reshape neighbouring healthy teeth
- Can help preserve bone where a tooth is missing
Who May Need It?
- Adults with one or more missing teeth
- People with healthy gums and enough bone (or who can have bone grafting)
- People whose medical conditions are well controlled — your dentist will review your health history
Treatment options and outcomes vary. Your dentist will assess your condition and explain whether this treatment is suitable for you. We never guarantee results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Commonly around 3–6 months from placement to the final tooth, but this depends on your bone, healing and whether additional procedures are needed.
Age alone is not usually the deciding factor. General health, bone and gum condition matter more. Your dentist will assess your suitability.
With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, implants can last many years. Results vary between individuals and no dental treatment can be guaranteed for life.
Treatment cost depends on your condition and the treatment plan your dentist recommends. After an assessment, we explain your options and their costs clearly before anything begins — contact the clinic to arrange an assessment.
Treatment Cost & Consultation
Treatment cost depends on your condition and the treatment plan your dentist recommends. After an assessment, we explain your options and their costs clearly before anything begins — contact the clinic to arrange an assessment.
We don’t publish fixed prices online because the right plan depends on your examination.
Why Choose Ali Dental Clinic?
- Before your appointmentWhat to expect
- During consultationWe’ll listen first
- Before treatmentWe’ll explain your options
- After treatmentWe’ll guide your aftercare