A single dental implant can provide a fixed replacement for one missing tooth without routinely needing to prepare the neighbouring natural teeth to support a conventional bridge.
Dr Mohsin Ali has completed postgraduate implant training with the Royal College of Surgeons and provides implant treatment ranging from single-tooth replacement to advanced implant surgery and bone augmentation. He also receives referrals from other dentists for implant treatment.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small fixture, commonly manufactured from titanium, which is surgically positioned within the jawbone.
It effectively replaces the root portion of the missing tooth. Once the implant is stable, it can support an abutment and a custom-made dental crown to replace the visible tooth.
What happens during implant treatment?
Treatment begins with a detailed assessment of your teeth, gums, bite and available bone. Dental X-rays and CBCT three-dimensional imaging may be required to plan the implant position and assess nearby anatomical structures.
The implant is then placed into the jaw under local anaesthetic. In many situations, it is allowed a period of healing during which the bone integrates around its surface—a biological process known as osseointegration.
Once appropriate healing and stability have been achieved, the implant can be restored with the planned replacement tooth.
Can an implant be placed immediately after an extraction?
Sometimes.
For suitable patients, an implant can be placed at the same appointment as the tooth is removed. In other circumstances, allowing the extraction site to heal first may provide a more appropriate or predictable treatment approach.
The decision depends on factors including infection, bone volume, gum condition, implant stability and the aesthetic requirements of the site.
What if I don’t have enough bone?
Insufficient bone does not necessarily mean implant treatment is impossible.
Depending on the nature and extent of the deficiency, bone grafting, sinus grafting or other augmentation procedures may be considered. Dr Ali provides advanced bone-grafting procedures as part of his implant practice.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants require ongoing maintenance just like natural teeth. Their longevity depends upon numerous factors, including oral hygiene, gum health, smoking, general health, bite forces and regular professional maintenance.
An implant therefore should not be regarded as a maintenance-free or guaranteed lifetime replacement.
