Losing a tooth affects more than your smile. It can change how you chew and speak, and over time the jawbone in that area can gradually shrink. A dental implant is one way to replace a missing tooth in a way that feels and works like a natural one.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small post, usually made of titanium or a similar biocompatible material, that is placed in the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. Once the area has healed, a crown, bridge or denture is attached to the implant so the replacement tooth is held firmly in place.
Who may benefit?
- People missing one or more teeth who would like a fixed replacement
- Those who would rather not have healthy neighbouring teeth reduced to support a bridge
- Patients who find removable dentures uncomfortable or unstable
- People with healthy gums and enough jawbone, or who are willing to have bone support assessed and, if needed, built up first
What to expect
- Consultation and examination. Your mouth, gums and medical history are reviewed, and X-rays or scans are used to assess the bone.
- Treatment planning. Dr. Shivani Gupta explains the options, the stages involved and a realistic timeline.
- Implant placement. This is a minor surgical procedure carried out under local anaesthesia.
- Healing. The implant needs time to settle into the bone. This period varies from person to person.
- Fitting the replacement tooth. Once healed, the crown, bridge or denture is attached and your bite is checked.
Aftercare and long-term care
Implants need the same care as natural teeth: thorough daily brushing, cleaning between the teeth, and regular check-ups. Avoiding smoking supports healing and long-term gum health. You will be given written instructions for the first few days after the procedure.
Good to know
Implants are not suitable for everyone. Conditions such as gum disease, uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking or insufficient bone can affect suitability and healing, and some patients need additional treatment first. Healing times and outcomes vary, and no dental treatment can be guaranteed to last forever. A proper examination is the only way to know whether implants are right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Suitability depends on your gum health, the amount of bone available, your general health and habits such as smoking. An examination with X-rays or scans is needed before anyone can say whether an implant is a good option for you.
Implant placement is carried out under local anaesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Some soreness, swelling or bruising afterwards is common, and your dentist will explain how to manage it.
It varies. The implant needs time to integrate with the bone before the final tooth is fitted, and some patients need extra treatment such as bone support. Your treatment plan will include an estimated timeline for your case.
Brush twice daily, clean between your teeth every day, avoid smoking, and attend regular check-ups so the implant and surrounding gum can be monitored.
Common alternatives are a fixed bridge or a removable denture. Each has advantages and limitations, and your dentist can help you compare them for your situation.
This page is general educational information and is not a substitute for a personal dental examination. Suitability, timelines and outcomes vary from person to person and are confirmed at your consultation with Dr. Shivani Gupta, BDS.