A dental implant for one missing tooth, or a few
A single implant replaces a lost tooth with an artificial titanium root, carrying a crown that looks like the tooth it replaced. It is the right answer when one tooth or a handful are missing.
The stages of treatment
Consultation and CBCT
We assess how much bone there is and what quality it is, and plan exactly where the implant will sit, using a CBCT scan.
Placing the implant
The titanium implant is placed in the bone under local anaesthetic. Most patients are surprised by how little there is to it — the anticipation is worse than the appointment.
Osseointegration
Over three to six months the implant fuses with the bone, forming a stable foundation for the crown. This is waiting, not treatment; there is nothing to be done to hurry it.
Abutment and crown
Once integrated, the abutment goes on and the crown — made from a digital impression — is fitted, matched to the shade and shape of the teeth beside it.
Travelling to us? A single implant means two trips — one to place it, one to fit the crown after it has integrated — with three to six months in between. Tell us your dates and we will plan around them.
Why an implant rather than a bridge
- Replaces the missing tooth without cutting down the teeth either side, as a conventional bridge would
- Stops the bone in the gap from wasting away
- Looks and works much like the natural tooth it replaces
- Lasts, given proper care
Missing several teeth, or a whole arch? For a full-arch rehabilitation we would point you at fixed teeth in 24 hours instead — it is a different treatment, and cheaper per tooth than placing implants one at a time.
See full-arch teeth on implants
Book a dental implant consultation
We work out together whether an implant is the right answer in your case, and give you a plan and a written quote.