Dental Implant FAQs
Dental implants are widely regarded as the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. They offer a permanent, natural-looking solution that restores function, confidence, and oral health. However, it’s natural to have questions before committing to treatment.
At London Dental Centre, our cosmetic dentists in London have over 15 years of experience providing dental implants and related treatments. We’ve compiled this guide to answer the most common dental implant FAQs, helping you make informed decisions about your smile.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small titanium post placed into your jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once integrated with the bone, it acts as a stable foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture.
Implants offer several advantages over traditional options:
Natural appearance and feel
Improved chewing and speech
Prevention of bone loss
Long-lasting results
They’re suitable for replacing single or multiple teeth and can even support full-arch restorations.
How Do I Know If I’m Suitable for Implants?
Most healthy adults can receive dental implants, but suitability depends on:
Oral health – healthy gums and sufficient jawbone are essential
General health – chronic conditions, like uncontrolled diabetes, may need management
Lifestyle factors – smoking can reduce success rates
Commitment to care – implants require diligent oral hygiene and regular check-ups
During a consultation at London Dental Centre, our dentists will assess your oral and general health, discuss your goals, and advise on the most appropriate treatment plan.
How Long Do Dental Implants Take?
The treatment timeline can vary depending on your oral health and whether additional procedures, such as bone grafting, are needed:
Initial consultation and planning – including scans and assessment
Surgical placement of the implant – usually under local anaesthetic
Healing period (osseointegration) – typically 3–6 months
Placement of abutment – connecting the implant to the crown or bridge
Final restoration – custom-made crown, bridge, or denture
Some patients may be suitable for immediate implants, which shorten the overall timeline, but most cases follow the staged approach to ensure optimal outcomes.
Are Dental Implants Painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort. Local anaesthetic is used during the procedure, and any soreness afterward can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
Our team ensures a comfortable experience, offering guidance on managing sensitivity during the healing phase.
How Long Do Implants Last?
With proper care, dental implants can last 15–25 years or more. Factors that influence longevity include:
Oral hygiene habits
Regular dental check-ups
Lifestyle factors, such as smoking or teeth grinding
Unlike dentures or bridges, implants do not rely on adjacent teeth, preserving your natural dental structure.
Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?
While most adults are candidates, certain factors may require additional treatment or precautions:
Insufficient jawbone – may need bone grafting
Gum disease – must be treated prior to implant placement
Smoking – affects healing and integration
Systemic conditions – such as uncontrolled diabetes or immune disorders
A personalised consultation at London Dental Centre will determine your suitability and outline any preparatory treatments required.
Are Dental Implants Expensive?
Dental implants are a long-term investment in oral health. Costs vary depending on:
Number of teeth being replaced
Complexity of the procedure
Any additional treatments required, such as bone grafting
At London Dental Centre, we provide tailored treatment plans with transparent pricing to help patients make informed decisions.
What Is the Recovery Like?
Recovery is generally straightforward:
Minor swelling or discomfort is normal for a few days
Soft foods are recommended during initial healing
Regular oral hygiene is crucial to prevent infection
Follow-up appointments ensure proper healing and restoration placement
Most patients return to normal activities within a few days, while complete integration of the implant takes a few months.
How Do I Care for My Implants?
Long-term success depends on proper aftercare:
Brush and floss regularly, paying attention to the implant site
Attend regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings
Avoid habits like nail-biting, chewing hard objects, or grinding
Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support overall oral health
With the right care, implants can last for decades and function like natural teeth.
Dental Implants vs Alternatives
Feature Dental Implants Dentures Bridges Longevity 15–25+ years 5–10 years 10–15 years Appearance Natural Can look artificial Natural Comfort High Can be uncomfortable Moderate Oral health Preserves bone May accelerate bone loss Adjacent teeth reshaped Maintenance Brushing, flossing Removal and cleaning Brushing, flossing
While dentures and bridges provide temporary solutions, dental implants offer a permanent, stable, and natural-looking option.
FAQs: Dental Implants
Q: Can implants fail?
A: Implant failure is rare but can occur due to infection, poor bone quality, or trauma. Proper care and follow-ups reduce risk.
Q: Will I need multiple appointments?
A: Yes. The staged approach allows for healing, integration, and custom restoration, ensuring the best long-term results.
Q: Are implants suitable for elderly patients?
A: Age alone is not a barrier. Good oral and general health are the main factors.
Q: Can I get implants if I have dentures?
A: Yes, implants can support dentures, providing stability and improved function.
Q: How soon can I eat normally after implants?
A: Soft foods are recommended for the first few days. Normal eating resumes once healing and restoration placement are complete.
Why Choose London Dental Centre
At London Dental Centre, we combine technical expertise with an artistic approach to cosmetic and restorative dentistry. Our services include:
Dental implants for single or multiple missing teeth
Porcelain veneers and composite bonding for smile enhancement
Invisalign and orthodontic treatments
Comprehensive general and periodontal care
With over 15 years serving Islington, our team ensures personalised, high-quality treatment with lasting results.
Book Your Dental Implant Consultation
If you have questions about dental implants or want to know if they are right for you, book a consultation at London Dental Centre. Our experienced cosmetic dentists in London will assess your oral health, discuss your goals, and provide a tailored treatment plan to restore your smile.
Call today or book online to take the first step toward a confident, healthy smile.