The Dental Implant Guide
How they work, what the process involves, realistic timelines, costs, and questions to ask — before you book anything.
Please note
This guide is for general information only and does not constitute clinical or dental advice. Suitability for any treatment must be assessed by a qualified dental professional. Individual results vary.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. Once it integrates with the bone — a process called osseointegration — a crown, bridge, or other restoration is fixed on top to replace the visible part of the missing tooth.
The result is a replacement that functions like a natural tooth: you can eat, speak, and clean it normally. Unlike a denture, an implant does not move. Unlike a bridge, it does not require the adjacent teeth to be reshaped.
Implants can replace a single tooth, multiple individual teeth, or support a full arch of teeth. The right option depends on your individual clinical situation.
Am I suitable for implants?
Suitability can only be confirmed through a clinical assessment, which includes examining your gum health, jawbone volume, and overall medical history. The following are common factors a clinician will consider:
Bone volume
Sufficient bone is needed to support and integrate the implant. Where bone has been lost, grafting procedures may be possible — a clinician can assess whether this is appropriate for your situation.
Gum health
Active gum disease needs to be treated before implant placement. Healthy gums are essential for long-term implant success.
General health
Certain medical conditions and medications may affect healing or integration. Your clinician will take a full medical history and advise accordingly.
Smoking
Smoking is associated with higher rates of implant failure. A clinician can discuss the implications for your individual case.
What does the process involve?
01
Assessment consultation
A thorough clinical examination, including X-rays or a CBCT scan to assess bone volume and anatomy. You leave with a clear treatment plan, timeline, and cost breakdown.
02
Implant placement
The titanium post is placed into the jawbone under local anaesthesia. Most patients describe the procedure as less uncomfortable than a tooth extraction. You will be given aftercare instructions.
03
Healing period (osseointegration)
The implant fuses with the bone over a period typically ranging from 6–16 weeks. A temporary restoration may be placed during this time. The exact duration depends on your bone quality and the location of the implant.
04
Restoration placement
Once integration is confirmed, the permanent crown, bridge, or other restoration is attached. Your clinician will ensure the bite and appearance are correct.
05
Ongoing care
Implants require the same daily cleaning as natural teeth. Regular dental check-ups allow the clinician to monitor the implant, gum tissue, and surrounding teeth.
How long does it take?
The overall timeline depends on your individual clinical situation. In straightforward cases, the process from first consultation to final restoration typically takes 4–6 months. Cases involving bone grafting, gum treatment, or other preparatory work will take longer.
Your clinician will give you a realistic, personalised timeline at your assessment consultation. We do not suggest specific timeframes in advance of a clinical examination.
What do implants cost?
Implant costs vary depending on the complexity of your case, the number of implants required, and whether any preparatory treatment is needed. A single implant-supported crown and a full arch restoration are very different in scope and cost.
A full cost breakdown will be provided at your assessment consultation, before you make any decisions. We also offer 0% finance options — details are provided at consultation, subject to status.
We do not publish indicative prices for implants because they vary significantly by case. Any price quoted before a clinical assessment should be treated with caution.
What are the alternatives?
Implants are not the only option for replacing missing teeth. A clinician will discuss all available options with you:
Dental bridge
A fixed restoration supported by the adjacent teeth. Does not require surgery, but involves reshaping the neighbouring teeth.
Denture
A removable appliance. Less invasive and lower cost, but does not prevent bone loss and requires daily removal and cleaning.
No replacement
In some cases, leaving a gap may be appropriate. A clinician can advise on whether this would affect bite, neighbouring teeth, or bone.
Questions to ask at your consultation
Am I a suitable candidate based on my bone volume and gum health?
The starting point for any implant discussion is a clinical assessment of suitability.
Will I need any preparatory treatment before the implant can be placed?
Bone grafting or gum treatment may be needed before implant placement.
What is the realistic timeline for my specific case?
Timelines vary significantly — only a clinical assessment can give you an accurate answer.
What is the full cost, including any preparatory procedures?
Ensure you understand the total investment before committing.
What are the risks and how are they managed?
Understanding risks and how they are mitigated helps you make an informed decision.
What happens if the implant does not integrate successfully?
Knowing the contingency plan provides reassurance.
What does long-term maintenance involve?
Implants require ongoing care — understand what that looks like.
Are there alternative treatments that might suit my situation?
A good clinician will always present all options, not just implants.