Frequently Asked Questions
We know you may have plenty of questions — feel free to contact us directly, or see if the answers you need are listed below.
Dental Implant FAQs
We understand that choosing dental implant treatment is a big decision. Below, we’ve answered the most common questions our patients ask about the process, healing, and aftercare. If you have any other questions, our team will be happy to help.
Getting Started
Do I need a referral from my dentist?
No. Anyone can make an appointment directly with us for an implant consultation — you do not need a referral.
What should I expect at my first visit?
Your implant consultation consists of two appointments.
Cost and Payment
Can I spread payments over my treatment?
Yes. You can spread payments over the course of your treatment.
You can either pay per appointment or set up a monthly standing order — whichever suits you best.
Remember, dental implant treatment is 20% tax deductible.
How do I claim the 20% tax back?
At the end of the year, ask our reception team for a Med 2 form.
We will complete it for you, and you can either collect it at your next appointment or have it posted to you.
Implant Materials and Success Rates
What are dental implants made of?
Implants are made from titanium, a biocompatible metal used safely and successfully in medicine and dentistry for over 60 years.
How successful are implants?
Dental implants have a 95% success rate, making them one of the most predictable treatments in modern dentistry.
Success depends on overall health, good oral hygiene, and sufficient bone and gum support. Non-smokers with healthy gums and teeth generally make the best candidates.
How long do implants last?
With good care, implants can last a lifetime.
The implant crown may need replacement after 10–15 years, while implant-supported dentures may last 5–10 years.
Are there age limits for dental implants?
There is no upper age limit, provided you are healthy and suitable.
Implants are not placed until the jaws have fully developed — usually around 18–19 years old, depending on individual growth.
Treatment Timing and Planning
When is the best time to plan for an implant?
Ideally before a tooth is removed.
Your implant dentist can plan the optimal timing for implant placement — sometimes on the same day as extraction, or up to 9 months later, depending on infection, bone quality, and socket condition.
If bone regeneration is needed, it is often best performed on the day the tooth is removed to preserve bone for the future implant.
What happens if I don’t replace a missing tooth?
After a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone and gum tissue shrink.
Over time, this can make implant placement more difficult and cause neighbouring or opposing teeth to tilt or drift, affecting your bite and oral health.
How long does treatment take from start to finish?
This varies depending on your case:
Tooth already missing – no bone graft
Duration: 6 months
Tooth already missing – bone graft required
Duration: 12–15 months
Tooth needs removal – no infection/bone loss
Duration: 6–9 months
Tooth needs removal – infection/bone loss present
Duration: 12–15 months
Replace/stabilise dentures – teeth already missing
Duration: 4–6 months
Replace/stabilise dentures – teeth to be removed
Duration: 6–9 months
Each case is unique, and we will explain your likely timeframe at your consultation.
Treatment Procedures
How many procedures are involved in replacing a single tooth?
There are typically five main steps:
- Tooth Removal – Carefully and gently done using special instruments to preserve gum and bone.
- Back teeth: implant usually placed after about 3 months
- Front teeth: bone is thinner and often requires a graft material to preserve it. - Implant Placement – The implant is placed under the gum where the root used to be.
The procedure feels similar to getting a filling.
- You’ll be numb and comfortable.
- Mild tenderness for a few days afterwards. - Uncovery Appointment – About 3 months later, a small procedure exposes the implant, and a healing cap is placed.
- Implant Crown Scan – Around 6 weeks later, 3D scans are taken for your crown.
- Crown Fit – About 4 weeks later, your final crown is fitted. Minor adjustments may be made at this stage.
For implant dentures or full-arch treatments, there are usually six appointments over about 2 months after healing.
Appearance and Temporary Teeth
Will the implant be visible?
No. The implant sits beneath the gum, replacing the tooth root.
After healing, it isn’t visible. The small healing cap used later is barely noticeable.
Will I be left with a gap?
No. For front or side teeth, we provide a temporary tooth on the same day as extraction. For back teeth, a temporary is usually unnecessary.
What will the temporary tooth look like?
Your temporary tooth will look natural and is designed mainly for appearance — avoid biting directly on it.
It may take a few days to get used to speaking with it. We will show you how to remove and clean it safely.
Aftercare and Recovery
Will I need stitches?
Most procedures require dissolvable stitches, which disappear naturally in 1–2 weeks. If non-dissolvable stitches are used, they’ll be removed at a short follow-up visit.
Does it hurt to get implants?
No. The procedure is done under local anaesthetic, similar to getting a filling.
Will I be sore afterwards?
It is normal to have mild tenderness for a few days. We will ensure you have the right pain relief and aftercare instructions.
We will also contact you within a couple of days to check that you are healing well.
Will I have swelling?
Mild swelling is common and depends on the procedure:
- Back tooth removal or implant – minimal swelling
- Front tooth procedures – mild swelling
- Bone grafting or multiple implants – moderate swelling, occasionally bruising
Use ice packs for the first 36 hours, then warm compresses to reduce swelling faster.
Do I need time off work?
- 1–2 implants – usually return to work the next day
- Multiple implants – take 1–2 days off
- Bone grafting – 3–4 days off recommended
Avoid strenuous exercise for one week after any procedure.
How should I clean the area after surgery?
Avoid brushing the surgical area for 2 weeks.
Use warm salt water or chlorhexidine mouthwash (Curasept, Corsodyl, or Kin) starting 36 hours after your procedure, rinsing 4–5 times daily.
Smoking and Healing
How does smoking affect implants?
Smoking reduces blood flow to the jawbone, making healing less predictable.
We advise quitting 3 months before treatment.
If this is not possible, a minimum of 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after certain procedures can still help.
Additional Information
Helpful tips before your appointment
- Avoid denture adhesive before visits.
- Avoid makeup before surgical appointments — we use antiseptic wipes around the mouth area.
- Bring any partial dentures, retainers, or removable appliances to every appointment.
Can I whiten my teeth?
Yes — start whitening 1 month after implant placement and complete it 2 weeks before your implant crown records are taken.
My temporary denture is loose — what should I do?
This is common as gums heal. Contact us, and we will adjust it for comfort.
My implant crown is loose — what should I do?
Contact us immediately so we can refit or tighten the crown.
Guarantee
All dental implants are covered by a 5-year guarantee, provided recommended maintenance visits and oral hygiene are maintained.
We understand that every patient’s situation is unique. Our team is here to support you at every stage — from your first consultation to long-term maintenance — ensuring your treatment is comfortable, predictable, and successful.
Periodontal (Gum) Treatment FAQs
Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Periodontal (gum) treatment focuses on preventing, controlling, and reversing the eGects of gum disease to preserve your natural teeth and protect the supporting bone and tissues. The following frequently asked questions explain how we diagnose, treat, and maintain gum health in our practice.
What is periodontal (gum) disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and supporting bone around the teeth. It begins as gingivitis, a reversible inflammation of the gums caused by bacterial plaque. If untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, leading to gum recession, bone loss, and loosening of teeth.
What are the signs of gum disease?
Common signs include bleeding gums when brushing or flossing, persistent bad breath, gum recession, loose teeth, or changes in how your teeth bite together. Gum disease is often painless in its early stages, so regular dental visits are essential.
What causes gum disease?
The main cause is plaque buildup on teeth. Other contributing factors include smoking, diabetes, stress, genetic predisposition, certain medications, and inadequate oral hygiene.
How is gum disease diagnosed?
Your periodontist will assess your gums by measuring pocket depths, evaluating bone support on X-rays, checking for bleeding and mobility, and reviewing your overall oral hygiene and medical history.
Will the treatment be painful?
Treatment is carried out under local anaesthetic, ensuring comfort throughout. You may experience mild tenderness or sensitivity for a few days, which can be managed easily with over-the-counter pain relief.
How long does treatment take?
Non-surgical treatment is usually completed over one to three visits. Surgical or grafting procedures may require additional appointments and healing periods of several weeks.
Can gum disease come back?
Yes, if bacteria are allowed to build up again. Consistent oral hygiene and regular maintenance visits are key to long-term stability.
Is periodontal treatment tax deductible?
Yes. Periodontal treatment qualifies for 20% tax relief under the Med 2 scheme. Our reception team can prepare the form for you at the end of your treatment.
A Note of Reassurance
Gum disease is common — and treatable. With professional care, tailored maintenance, and a good home routine, most patients can keep their teeth for life. For those who have already lost teeth to gum disease, modern dental implant therapy offers a predictable way to restore comfort and confidence.
Our goal is to help you achieve stable, healthy gums and a lasting smile through gentle, evidence-based care.
