What is the process for a single dental implant?
Dental implants are typically made from titanium or zirconia and are placed into the jaw to replace the root of a missing tooth. This is a routine procedure carried out under local anaesthetic, after which the implant is left to heal and bond with the jawbone over a period of three to six months, creating a strong foundation for the new tooth.
In most cases, a temporary replacement tooth is fitted at the same appointment as the implant, allowing you to maintain your smile while the area heals until your final restoration visit.
Once healing is complete, an abutment is attached to the implant to securely support the replacement crown. Abutments can be made from titanium, gold or porcelain and may be standard or custom-designed to suit your smile, offering different aesthetic outcomes based on your needs.
Finally, a bespoke crown is placed onto the abutment to restore your missing tooth, with its shade carefully matched to blend naturally with your surrounding teeth.