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What Is a Tooth Implant? A Full Guide to Modern Tooth Replacement
- Mr Nikolaos Billis
- Sep 25
- 6 min read
Tooth loss is more common than many people think — and thankfully, modern dentistry offers an effective, long-lasting solution: the tooth implant. But what is a tooth implant, and why is it considered the gold standard for replacing missing teeth?
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about tooth implants — how they work, their benefits, the treatment process, and what to expect after placement. Whether you’ve recently lost a tooth or you're planning ahead, understanding this treatment is the first step to restoring your smile.
What Is a Tooth Implant?
A tooth implant is a small, screw-shaped post made from biocompatible materials, most commonly titanium or ceramic. It is surgically placed into your jawbone where your natural tooth root once was. Over time, the implant integrates with the bone in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong and permanent foundation for a new artificial tooth.
Once the implant is securely integrated, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the top — completing the restoration with a natural look and feel.
Key points:
Acts as a replacement tooth root
Supports a crown, bridge, or denture
Stimulates jawbone health
Feels and functions like a real tooth
How Does a Tooth Implant Work?
The process of placing a tooth implant is done in several stages to ensure safety, precision, and longevity:
Assessment and Planning
A full dental exam, X-rays, and possibly a CBCT scan are carried out.
Your bone quality, gum health, and overall dental structure are assessed.
A customised treatment plan is created.
Implant Placement Surgery
The implant is placed into the jawbone using minimally invasive techniques.
Sedation options are available for nervous patients.
Healing Period (3–6 months)
The implant integrates with the bone.
A temporary tooth may be worn during this phase.
Attachment of Abutment and Crown
Once healed, an abutment is placed to connect the implant to the final crown.
The crown is crafted to match your natural teeth in shape and colour.
🦷 At Gateway Dental Practice, we use 3D imaging, guided implant surgery, and digital smile design for precision and comfort.
What Are the Benefits of Tooth Implants?
Compared to other options like bridges or dentures, tooth implants offer several unmatched advantages:
Longevity: Can last 15–25 years or more with good care
Jawbone Preservation: Stimulates bone and prevents bone loss
No Damage to Neighbouring Teeth: Unlike bridges, implants don’t rely on adjacent teeth
Stability: Fixed in place — no slipping or discomfort
Aesthetic Appeal: Looks and feels just like a natural tooth
Confidence: Restores your ability to smile, eat, and speak normally
Who Is a Good Candidate for Tooth Implants?
Most adults with missing teeth can be considered for a dental implant, but certain criteria improve success rates:
✅ You are in good general health✅ Your gums are healthy and free of active periodontal disease✅ You have sufficient jawbone to support the implant✅ You’re a non-smoker or willing to quit✅ You have good oral hygiene habits and regular dental check-ups
Don’t worry if you’ve been missing a tooth for a long time — treatments like bone grafting or sinus lifts can often make implants possible even in complex cases.
How Long Does a Tooth Implant Last?
A properly placed and cared-for tooth implant can last 15 to 25 years, or even longer. The crown attached to it may need replacement sooner (typically after 10–15 years), depending on wear and tear.
To extend the life of your implant:
Brush and floss daily
Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups
Avoid smoking
Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth
What Does a Tooth Implant Cost?
The cost of a dental implant can vary based on:
Number of implants needed
Whether you need bone grafting or extractions
Type of restoration (crown, bridge, or denture)
At Gateway Dental Practice, we provide:
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Flexible 0% finance options
Membership plans to help spread the cost of care
Expert advice tailored to your clinical and financial needs
Are Tooth Implants Painful?
Most patients are surprised by how comfortable the procedure is. Tooth implant placement is usually performed under local anaesthesia, and conscious sedation is available for those who feel anxious.
During recovery, you may experience:
Mild discomfort
Swelling or bruising
Temporary diet changes (soft foods)
These effects typically resolve within a few days, and pain is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
What’s the Recovery Time After Getting a Tooth Implant?
The typical recovery timeline includes:
Initial healing (1–2 weeks): For the soft tissues to recover from the surgery.
Osseointegration (3–6 months): For the implant to fully bond with the jawbone.
Final restoration: Once the implant is secure, the permanent crown or bridge is fitted.
During the healing period, it’s important to:
Stick to soft foods
Avoid smoking or alcohol
Maintain meticulous oral hygiene
Attend all follow-up appointments
Can a Tooth Implant Fail?
Implant failure is rare, especially when placed by experienced professionals and maintained properly. However, when it does occur, the causes can include:
Poor oral hygiene
Smoking
Uncontrolled diabetes
Excessive grinding (bruxism)
Infection or peri-implantitis
Symptoms of implant failure include pain, mobility of the implant, or inflammation. The earlier it's addressed, the better the outcome.
At Gateway Dental Practice, we use cutting-edge diagnostics, guided surgery, and follow-up care to reduce risks and ensure long-term success.
Why Choose Gateway Dental Practice for Tooth Implants?
Choosing the right provider is critical to the success of your implant treatment. At Gateway Dental Practice in Burgess Hill, we are known for:
🧠 Specialist-led careOur team includes highly qualified implantologists, periodontists, and restorative dentists.
📷 Advanced technology3D CBCT scanning, digital smile design, and guided surgery ensure precise and predictable results.
🤝 Personalised serviceEvery patient receives a custom treatment plan and ongoing support.
💤 Sedation availableWe offer gentle care for anxious patients.
🌍 Convenient locationWe welcome patients from Burgess Hill, Haywards Heath, Cuckfield, Hurstpierpoint, Hassocks, and beyond.
⭐ Don’t just take our word for it — read our patient reviews and success stories.
What Types of Tooth Implants Are Available?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to tooth implants. At Gateway Dental Practice, we offer various types of implants tailored to your individual dental needs, bone structure, and aesthetic goals. Understanding your options will help you feel more informed when discussing your treatment plan.
Common types of dental implants include:
Single Tooth Implants: Ideal for patients missing just one tooth. This involves one implant post topped with a custom crown for a natural-looking result.
Multiple Implants / Implant-Supported Bridges: If you’re missing several teeth, two or more implants can support a bridge — avoiding the need to alter healthy neighbouring teeth.
Full Arch Implants (All-on-4 / All-on-6): For patients missing all upper or lower teeth, a full arch prosthetic can be anchored on 4–6 implants, offering a fixed, full-mouth solution.
Zygomatic Implants: For patients with severe upper jaw bone loss, these longer implants anchor into the cheekbone — eliminating the need for grafting in some cases.
Mini Implants: These are narrower than traditional implants and are used in cases of limited bone availability or to stabilise lower dentures.
Each type comes with its own advantages, and during your consultation, we’ll explore which solution offers the best balance of durability, function, and aesthetics for your case.
🦷 Learn more about your implant options during a personalised consultation with our experienced team.
What Happens If You Don’t Replace a Missing Tooth?
Many patients underestimate the long-term impact of leaving a missing tooth untreated. But the consequences extend far beyond appearance — they can affect your entire oral health, jawbone, and even facial structure.
Risks of not replacing a missing tooth include:
Bone Loss: Without a tooth root to stimulate it, the jawbone in that area starts to shrink (resorb), weakening your bite and changing your facial profile.
Tooth Shifting: Neighbouring teeth may start to move into the gap, leading to misalignment, bite issues, and further complications.
Gum Recession: The soft tissue around the missing area may shrink, increasing the risk of gum disease and aesthetic concerns.
Speech Difficulties: Missing teeth, especially at the front, can affect pronunciation and clarity.
Chewing Problems: You may begin avoiding certain foods, leading to poor nutrition and digestion.
Premature Ageing: Bone and soft tissue loss can lead to a sunken appearance in the cheeks and lips.
Dental implants help preserve the integrity of your jaw and smile, maintaining your oral function and facial aesthetics.
📌 Considering your options? Book a consultation to explore the long-term benefits of replacing missing teeth with dental implants.
Final Thoughts: What Is a Tooth Implant?
So, what is a tooth implant? It’s more than just a dental treatment — it’s a transformative solution that restores your smile, your confidence, and your quality of life.
At Gateway Dental Practice, we provide expert implant care from your initial consultation to long-term maintenance. Whether you’ve lost a single tooth or need a full smile restoration, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
📞 Ready to learn more? Call us on +44 1444 232188, email reception@gatewaydental.co.uk, or visit us at 73 Station Road, Burgess Hill RH15 9DY to schedule your consultation.
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