A single dental implant is a long-term solution for replacing one missing tooth. It involves a small titanium post that’s gently placed into your jawbone to act as a replacement for the natural tooth root. Over several weeks or months, the implant fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration, creating a secure and stable foundation. Once healed, a custom-made crown is fitted on top, designed to match the colour, shape, and size of your surrounding teeth. The result is a tooth that looks, feels, and functions just like the real thing — restoring your smile and helping prevent bone loss in the jaw.
While bridges and dentures can fill a gap, they don’t replace the tooth root beneath the gum line. This means the bone can gradually shrink over time, potentially changing your facial shape and affecting nearby teeth.
A single dental implant, by contrast, integrates with your natural bone, preserving both bone density and facial structure. It also doesn’t rely on adjacent teeth for support, so there’s no need to file down healthy enamel as with a bridge. The result is a more stable, comfortable, and natural-looking solution that can last for decades with proper care.
The process begins with a thorough consultation at Harwood Dental Care, including digital scans and X-rays to assess your bone quality and oral health.
- Step 1: The implant is carefully placed into your jaw under local anaesthetic — sedation is available for nervous patients.
- Step 2: Over the next few months, the implant and bone bond together. A temporary tooth can often be worn during this stage.
- Step 3: Once healing is complete, an abutment and permanent crown are fitted, completing your new tooth.
The entire journey can take between three to six months, depending on your healing time and whether additional procedures (such as bone grafting) are needed. Your dentist will provide a clear timeline from the outset.
Most patients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable implant treatment can be. The procedure itself is done under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel any pain during placement. Afterwards, some mild tenderness or swelling is expected, similar to what you might experience after a tooth extraction.
Any discomfort is usually well managed with over-the-counter pain relief and good aftercare. At Harwood Dental Care, the team provides detailed instructions and is always available for reassurance or advice during your recovery.
With good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, your implant could last a lifetime. The crown on top may eventually need replacing due to normal wear, but the implant post itself — made from medical-grade titanium — is designed to be permanent.
Maintaining healthy gums and avoiding habits like smoking will greatly improve your implant’s long-term success. Harwood Dental Care’s team monitors your implant at each visit to ensure it stays healthy and strong for years to come.
At Harwood Dental Care, a single implant (including the implant, abutment, and crown) typically starts from around £3,200. The exact cost depends on your specific needs, the type of restoration, and any preparatory work required.)
While implants are a bigger upfront investment than bridges or dentures, they’re also the most durable and natural-feeling option available. They protect your oral health, prevent bone loss, and often last for decades — making them excellent long-term value. The team will always provide a transparent, written treatment plan before you begin.
