Crowns & Prosthetics
Dental Bridge or Implant? How to Choose
Lost a tooth and torn between a bridge and an implant? A clear comparison of time, cost, lifespan and the effect on neighbouring teeth and bone.
Dental Implants
Replacing missing teeth permanently with implants placed in the jawbone and topped with a natural-looking crown.
Dental implants are one of the best solutions for replacing one or more missing teeth. An implant is a small post (usually titanium) placed in the jawbone to act as a root, topped with a crown that looks like a natural tooth.
Why implants?
An implant replaces the tooth without touching the neighbouring teeth as a bridge does, and helps preserve the jawbone, which slowly shrinks after a tooth is lost. It restores chewing efficiency and confidence in your smile.
Am I a candidate?
Most adults are suitable, provided there is enough bone (or it can be rebuilt) and the gums are healthy. Some cases need extra care, such as uncontrolled diabetes or heavy smoking. We assess this with X-rays and an examination and explain the full plan.
Stages
After the implant is placed, it needs a healing period — usually several months — to fuse with the bone before the final crown is fitted. A temporary replacement is often possible in the meantime so the space is not left empty.
Caring for your implant
- Careful daily cleaning around the implant with a brush and floss or interdental brushes.
- Stopping smoking as much as possible, as it affects implant success.
- Regular check-ups and professional cleaning.
Benefits of Dental Implants
- A fixed replacement that feels like a natural tooth
- No need to prepare neighbouring teeth
- Helps preserve the jawbone
- Restores chewing efficiency
- A long-term solution with care
Treatment steps
Assessment
Examination and X-rays to assess bone and gums and plan the implant position.
Implant placement
A procedure under local anaesthesia to place the implant in the bone.
Healing
Waiting for the implant to fuse with the bone, with regular follow-up.
Final crown
Taking the impression and fitting the crown on the implant.
FAQs about Dental Implants
Are dental implants painful?
They are placed under local anaesthesia; mild discomfort and swelling for a few days afterwards are common.
How long does the process take?
From placement to final crown usually several months, depending on the bone.
How long does an implant last?
With good care it can last for many, many years.
Related articles
Crowns & Prosthetics
Dental Implant Stages: From Consultation to Final Crown
How long do implants take, and what happens at each stage? A simple guide to the implant journey from the first visit to the final tooth.
Ready for a smile that suits you?
Book your consultation and get a clear treatment plan that fits your case and budget.