Missing teeth can affect appearance, chewing and speech. Bone volume may decrease after a tooth is lost. For suitable patients, dental implants are one option for replacing missing teeth. They are considered alongside bridges and removable dentures, taking oral anatomy and general health into account.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root placed in the jawbone to support replacement teeth. It is often made of titanium. The biological connection between bone and implant is called osseointegration. Once healing is complete, an implant may support a single crown, a bridge or a suitable removable prosthesis.
Benefits and realistic expectations
- Adjacent teeth: Unlike some conventional bridges, an implant may replace a tooth without preparing the neighbouring teeth.
- Chewing and speech: A properly planned restoration aims to improve function and comfort. An implant does not have the same sensory properties as a natural tooth.
- Bone support: Implants help transmit functional loads, but cannot be guaranteed to stop all bone loss.
- Appearance: Tooth colour, shape and the gum relationship are planned individually.
- Long-term use: Good care and regular reviews may support many years of use. Lifetime survival cannot be guaranteed.
1. Examination and planning
An oral examination, medical history and necessary imaging help assess bone quantity and nearby anatomical structures. Three-dimensional imaging is requested when clinically indicated. The implant position is planned with the final restoration in mind. Bone augmentation is discussed when necessary.
2. Implant placement
Surgery is usually performed under local anaesthesia to control pain; pressure or vibration may still be felt. The duration depends on the number of implants and any additional procedures. A same-day temporary tooth is considered only when initial implant stability, bone conditions and the bite are suitable.
3. Healing and integration with bone
Healing usually takes several months. Two to four months may be enough in some cases, while grafting or other clinical factors may require longer. The decision to load an implant is based on clinical findings rather than the calendar alone.
4. The final restoration
After sufficient healing, digital or conventional impressions are taken. Suitable restorative materials, such as porcelain or zirconia, are selected. Colour, shape, bite and access for cleaning are checked during try-ins before the restoration is completed.
Who may be suitable?
Implants may be considered for people with one or more missing teeth whose jaw growth is complete and whose general health permits treatment. Age alone is not sufficient to determine suitability. Diabetes control, smoking, gum health, medication and previous treatments are assessed. Consultation with the treating physician may be needed; surgical suitability is determined individually.
Care and precautions
Clean teeth and implant restorations at least twice daily and use suitable interdental cleaning aids. Your clinician sets the review interval. Bleeding, increasing swelling, mobility or persistent pain require assessment. Infection around implants, failure to integrate and risks specific to the surgical site should be discussed before treatment.