Restore · Repairing and replacing teeth
Dental implants
A dental implant is a small post, usually made of titanium, placed in the jawbone to support a replacement tooth. It can be an option for replacing missing teeth where the bone and gums are suitable.
What it’s for
Implants can replace a single tooth or support several. Whether they are suitable depends on your general health, the bone and gums in the area, and factors such as smoking.
In some cases, additional procedures such as bone grafting are needed before an implant can be placed. Your dentist will tell you if this may apply to you.
- Crown
- The visible replacement tooth, made to match its neighbours.
- Abutment
- A small connector that joins the crown to the implant, through the gum.
- Implant
- A threaded post, usually titanium, placed in the jawbone where the root used to be.
- Bone and gum
- Heal around the implant over several months before the crown is fitted.
Your consultation
Your dentist will examine the area, discuss your medical history and take X-rays or other imaging to assess the bone. They will explain the alternatives, such as a bridge or a denture, alongside implants, so you can compare them.
Before treatment, your dentist will confirm exactly what the implant fee includes.
What happens
Assessment
Examination and imaging to see whether an implant is suitable.
Placement
The implant is placed in the jawbone under local anaesthetic.
Healing
The bone is given time to heal around the implant, usually over several months.
Your new tooth
A crown or other restoration is fitted to the implant.
Looking after an implant
Implants need the same daily care as natural teeth, along with regular check-ups and hygiene visits. Like any treatment, implants carry risks and can fail; your dentist will explain these before you decide.
Fees
- Dental implantYour dentist will confirm exactly what this includes before treatment.
- £2,900
Private fee guide, September 2026. Where a fee is shown as “from”, the final cost depends on your treatment; your dentist will explain your options and their costs before any treatment begins. See all fees.
Questions
Is everyone suitable for implants?
No. Suitability depends on your health, your bone and gums, and other factors. Your dentist will assess this and explain the alternatives if implants aren’t right for you.
How long does treatment take?
Usually several months from placement to the final tooth, because the bone needs time to heal around the implant. Your dentist will give you a timescale for your treatment.
What does the fee include?
Your dentist will confirm exactly what is included (for example the crown and any additional procedures) before treatment begins.
Related treatments
Talk it through with us.
Every treatment starts with a conversation. We’ll explain your options and their costs, and you can take the time you need to decide.