Single tooth
One implant and crown to replace one missing tooth, without touching the teeth either side.
Dental implants
A tooth that feels like your own again.
Dental implants are the closest thing to a natural tooth. I plan and place implants for single teeth, several teeth and full arches, and rebuild bone where it's needed.
One tooth to a full archTailored to your mouth
Bone grafting & sinus liftsWhen bone is limited
Sedation availableFor nervous patients
What is an implant?
Three parts, working like a natural tooth
An implant replaces the root of a missing tooth. Once it has bonded with the bone, it supports a crown, bridge or denture that looks and works like the real thing.
Crown
The visible tooth, made to match the shape and shade of your natural teeth.
Abutment
A small connector that joins the crown securely to the implant.
Implant
A post, usually titanium, placed in the jawbone. Over a few months, the bone bonds to its surface to create a strong foundation.
Treatment options
Whatever you're missing, there's a way
Your options depend on how many teeth are missing, the bone available and what matters most to you. We'll go through them together at your consultation.
Implant bridge
Several teeth in a row replaced by a bridge supported on implants, so you don't need one for every tooth.
Implant-retained denture
A denture that clips securely onto implants. Less movement, no adhesives and more confidence eating.
Full-arch implants
A fixed set of teeth on a small number of implants, for people missing most or all of their teeth in a jaw.
Is it right for you?
The benefits, and the honest considerations
Implants are an excellent option for many people, but not everyone. A good decision starts with a clear picture of both sides.
Implants vs bridges vs denturesWhy people choose implants
- Look, feel and function like natural teeth
- No need to cut down healthy neighbouring teeth, as a bridge would
- Help preserve the jawbone after a tooth is lost
- Can last for many years with good care and regular check-ups
Things to consider
- Involves minor surgery and a healing period of several months
- Needs healthy gums and enough bone, or grafting to rebuild it
- Smoking and poorly controlled diabetes increase the risk of problems
- Usually provided privately rather than on the NHS
The process
Your implant journey, step by step
Every plan is individual, but most treatment follows these five stages.
-
01
Consultation
Your medical history, an examination and a conversation about your goals and options.
Getting started -
02
3D scan & plan
A CBCT scan shows bone volume and nerve position, so each implant can be planned precisely.
Planning -
03
Placement
The implant is placed under local anaesthetic, with sedation if you'd prefer.
Surgery day -
04
Healing
The bone bonds to the implant. A temporary tooth can often be worn in the meantime.
Typically 3–6 months -
05
Your new teeth
The final crown, bridge or denture is fitted, followed by regular reviews.
Finishing
Advanced surgery
Not enough bone? It can often be rebuilt.
After a tooth is lost, the bone around it gradually shrinks. That doesn't have to rule implants out. Grafting procedures can restore the foundation an implant needs.
These are techniques I teach to other dentists, and they're a routine part of my implant practice.
Bone grafting
Graft material, or a small block of bone, is used to rebuild width or height in the jaw so an implant can be placed securely. It may be done before, or at the same time as, implant placement.
Sinus lift
In the upper back jaw, the floor of the sinus can sit close to the gum. A sinus lift gently raises it and adds graft material underneath, creating room for an implant.
Am I suitable for dental implants?
Most adults in good general health can have implants. Your gums need to be healthy, and any gum disease treated first. Bone levels, smoking and some medical conditions or medicines all play a part, which is why a thorough assessment and scan come first.
Does having an implant hurt?
Placement is done under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn't feel pain during the procedure. Most people describe the following few days as similar to, or easier than, having a tooth out, and manageable with everyday painkillers.
How long do dental implants last?
With good oral hygiene, regular check-ups and not smoking, implants can last for many years, and often decades. The crown on top may need replacing at some point through normal wear.
I've worn dentures for years. Can I still have implants?
Often, yes. Long-term denture wearers may have lost some bone, but grafting or implant-retained dentures can still make a real difference to comfort and confidence.
Are implants available on the NHS?
Only in limited circumstances, usually through a hospital, for example after mouth cancer treatment, trauma, or when teeth have never developed. For most people, implants are a private treatment.
How much do implants cost?
It depends on how many implants you need, whether grafting is required and the type of restoration. After your consultation you'll receive a written treatment plan with the full cost before you decide anything.
Implant consultation
Find out what's possible for you
A consultation is the best way to understand your options, timescales and costs, with no pressure to go ahead.