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Dental Implants FAQ's

How many implants do I need?

Following your assessment, the number of implants required will be recommended. Sometimes one implant can replace two teeth, or two implants can replace 3 or more teeth. Alternatively 4 or 6 implants can be used to support or fix a denture. The options available to you will be discussed with you.

What is upgrading?

It is sometimes possible to have two or three implants placed, use them for a while and sometime later add more implants to improve the treatment plan or following further tooth loss.

What is it like having implants placed?

Generally speaking, having implants placed is not at all painful. The after effects of having implants placed are usually mild and may include slight bruising, a dull ache and some swelling, the amount of which will vary dependent upon the number of implants placed and the difficulty of the surgical procedures. Occasionally significant bruising can result.

When choosing a date for implant placement, avoid significant social engagements and work commitments for at least a week. This is just to be on the safe side. Taking time off work is not usually necessary.

How long does the treatment take to complete?

This depends on the complexity of the treatment. Initially there is a treatment planning stage that may last a month or so. Then there may be some time spent on such preparatory procedures as improving gum health, removing any unsalvageable teeth and growing bone. This may take anything from a few weeks to many months.

After the implants are placed they are left to integrate with the bone from 3 to 6 months. The final fitting of crowns or bridges or attaching of dentures to the implants takes 1 to 2 months. The time depends on your individual situation.You will be given the expected timescales for your own work following agreement of the treatment plan.

It is important that neither the patient nor the surgeon attempt to rush the treatment to try to advance the various stages faster than the time required for complete healing and maturation of bone and soft tissue.

Even when treatment is well planned and executed, it can fail as a result of moving too quickly from stage to stage. If you do not have the time available then it may be more sensible to consider conventional forms of dentistry that can be completed more rapidly.

Your surgeon may suggest that procedures to grow bone are undertaken separately from placing the implants, even though under certain conditions it is possible to combine these stages.

Some people find it more convenient to proceed in stages and the treatment can be staged over longer periods of time if it is better for you to do that.

How much do implants cost?

The average cost of a single tooth implant including the crown is usually £2500.00. The only way to establish accurately the cost for an individual is to have a full consultation and written estimate of costs.

During treatment, fees may vary if alternative procedures are required due to changes in the treatment plan, such as bone augmentation and/or sinus lift. You will be fully informed of this and given the opportunity to agree to these changes before we go ahead.

If for some reason it is not possible to proceed with the planned procedure at the treatment appointment, the time spent will be charged at the normal hourly rate. An alternative treatment may be performed if considered appropriate.