What Are Dental Implants and How Do They Work?

If you have a missing tooth, or you are facing losing one, dental implants are one of the most natural-looking and long-lasting ways to replace it.

Implants can feel like a big step, so it helps to understand exactly what they are and how they work before you decide. Here is a clear, jargon-free guide to the implant procedure and what it involves.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a small titanium post that is placed into the jawbone to act as a replacement tooth root. Once it has settled, it is topped with a natural-looking crown, giving you a replacement tooth that looks, feels and functions much like a real one. Because the implant is anchored into the bone, it is a fixed, stable solution rather than something that is removed like a denture.

How does the implant procedure work?

Every case is planned individually, but the implant procedure generally follows a few clear stages.

• Assessment and planningDr Shah examines your mouth and checks the health of your gums. A 3D scan, known as a Cone Beam CT scan, is taken to assess the bone in detail and plan exactly where the implant should sit.
• Placing the implantThe titanium post is gently placed into the jawbone during a focused procedure, usually under local anaesthetic.
• Healing and integrationOver the following weeks, the bone naturally bonds with the implant, a process that gives it its strength and stability.
• Fitting the crownOnce healed, a custom-made crown is attached, matched to your surrounding teeth for a natural finish.

Why the 3D scan matters

A standard dental X-ray gives a flat, two-dimensional picture. A Cone Beam CT scan builds a three-dimensional view of your jaw, showing the height, width and quality of the bone as well as the position of nearby nerves and sinuses. That detail allows the implant to be planned precisely and safely, and it is also how your dentist can tell in advance whether you have enough bone or whether any groundwork is needed first. It is a short, straightforward scan, and it takes a lot of the uncertainty out of implant treatment.

What can dental implants replace?

Implants are versatile. A single implant and crown can replace one missing tooth, while several implants can support the replacement of multiple teeth. They can also be used to secure a bridge where more than one tooth is missing in a row, offering a stable alternative to traditional missing teeth replacement options.

Who is suitable for dental implants?

Many adults are suitable for implants, but suitability does depend on things like your gum health, the amount of bone available and your general health. This is why an assessment matters. It is the only way to know whether implants are the right choice for you, or whether another option might suit you better. At The Smile Studio, dental implants start from £2,750 per tooth, with your full plan and price confirmed after your consultation. You can learn more on our dental implants page.