Dental Implants FAQs

About dental implants

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are a clinically proven, long term tooth replacement treatment for failing or missing teeth, or for dentures.

Dental implants are surgically inserted into your jawbone to replace natural tooth roots.

A crown or bridge of teeth is secured on top of the implants to replace the actual tooth or teeth.

The result is stable replacement teeth with no gaps, that enable you to bite and chew normally and improve the aesthetics of your smile.

Are dental implants safe?

Implants are a clinically proven tooth replacement solution, with high success rates if well cared for.

Dental implants have been widely studied and proven by decades of research and clinical use.

They are suitable for most healthy adults.

As with any surgical procedure, all patients considering dental implant treatment should be carefully assessed for suitability.

This should include a full understanding of a patient’s medical history.

How long does dental implant treatment take?

Traditional dental implant techniques require longer treatment time as they involve multiple surgical procedures, with months of healing time after each stage.

Immediate loading,(same-day) implants usually require just a single surgical procedure as any extractions, implant placement and the fixing of a first set of new teeth is accomplished on the same day.

This reduces the number of appointments needed and months of healing time.

Both traditional and same-day implants require around 3 months healing time after the implants have been placed to allow for the bone to integrate with the implants.

Dental implants or dentures?

Both dental implants and dentures are well-known tooth replacement solutions.

Dental implants offer a “fixed” solution i.e.  they look, function and remain permanently in place just like natural teeth. They can be used to replace single, multiple or full sets of teeth.

Dentures, whether partial or full dentures are “removable” so the wearer must remove them for cleaning and maintenance.

To learn more, read our blog: “Dentures or dental implants?”

Am I suitable for dental implants?

Dental implants are a clinically proven, long-lasting tooth replacement solution, suitable for most adults.

It should be remembered that dental implants, whether conventional or advanced same-day implants, require surgery.

It’s therefore imperative that all patients are carefully assessed for personal suitability.

Assessment includes an understanding of current and historical dental and medical health, along with clinical analysis from your initial consultation, a full mouth examination and detailed information from your CT scan.

We confirm your suitability for treatment in your personalised treatment plan.

If, as happens very occasionally, we don’t believe you’re suitable for dental implant treatment, we will discuss alternative options with you.

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Same-day implants

General

How can you do it in one day?

With same-day or “immediate loading” implant procedures, any necessary extractions, the implant surgery and the placing of a first set of fixed teeth all take place on one day.

Patients leave with a beautiful new smile, securely fixed on implants.

This first set of fixed teeth remains in place whilst the bone integrates with the dental implants.

The teeth are then exchanged for the final long-lasting set about three months later. No surgery is necessary at this appointment.

Traditional or same day implants?

Traditional dental implants

Traditional dental implant treatments usually require multiple surgical procedures e.g. for bone grafts, extractions, implant placement.

Many weeks of healing time are needed following each stage.

Once the implants are placed, patients wear a removable denture – or live with gaps – until the bone has sufficiently integrated with the implants.

At this point a set of new teeth can be placed onto the implants.

Same-day implants

Same-day implants condense the multiple surgical procedures and long periods of healing time into a single surgical procedure: any extractions, implant surgery and the fixing of a full set of new teeth is completed on the same day.

Bone grafting is rarely needed, even in cases of serious jawbone loss.

Securely fixed in place like natural teeth throughout the healing phase, these first teeth are exchanged for the final, long-lasting set about three months later.

This enables us to make any aesthetic refinements to your teeth and ensure a perfect fit with your newly settled gums.

As only one surgical intervention is needed, the technique is less invasive and saves months of healing time associated with conventional implant treatments.

Your dentist will advise you on the best option for your personal requirements.

Will I need a bone graft?

Bone grafting is a technique used for people with insufficient bone to support dental implants, or when the bone quality is not good enough.

With the Teeth in a Day technique, bone grafts are rarely needed, even for people with severe bone loss.

This is due to the precise placement of the implants, enabling use of the maximum amount of bone.

Are they suitable for nervous patients?

We understand how anxious some people are about visiting the dentist. Anxieties often stem from bad experiences in the past.

Why Teeth in a Day is suitable for nervous patients

  • Only one surgical procedure is usually required
  • Many fewer appointments are required
  • The procedure is virtually pain-free
  • Conscious sedation creates a relaxed dream-like state, with little recall
  • Our clinicians have won awards for their outstanding treatment of nervous patients.

We work with you to manage your anxiety, and to ensure that discomfort is kept to a minimum.

We encourage you to share your thoughts and concerns, however big or small.

We aim to provide such a high standard of care that nervous patients never fear dentists again.

Will my new teeth look natural?

Modern materials are available to create the look that you dream of – whether natural-looking or a dazzling bright smile!

At David Neal Dental we offer a fully bespoke service to ensure every detail of  your new teeth is perfect. The colour, size and shape are refined until they are exactly right for you.

Some dentists offer more limited options, so it’s important to discuss how much input you can have into the look of your teeth before you start treatment.

What happens at my initial consultation?

Your initial consultation is the first step in regaining your smile.

It’s an important step as every patient must be full assessed to ensure dental implants are a safe and appropriate treatment for them.

You’ll meet with one of our experienced, caring dentists who will talk to you about your dental issues and the outcome you’re hoping for.

We give you a full mouth examination to assess the health of your teeth and gums, then discuss your treatment options with you.

If you and your dentist agree dental implants are likely to be a good solution, and you want to progress, the next step is to have a CT scan.

The images from the CT scan are used to analyse and confirm your suitability for treatment, as well as in planning your surgery.

We then provide you with a detailed, personalised treatment plan.

 

Is implant treatment painful?

Pain is not a barrier to treatment at David Neal Dental.

We offer both local and conscious sedation.

Even patients who have whole sets of teeth restored in one day are surprised how they experience little or no pain.

Can I have implants if I smoke?

Whilst smoking doesn’t necessarily prevent you from having dental implant treatment, it can impact the outcome of your treatment.

It can reduce the initial integration with the jawbone as nicotine restricts blood flow and can slow the healing process.

It can also affect long-term success rates.

Our approach to treating smokers is to be non-judgemental but open about the risks and implications.

We do not, however, treat patients who smoke for bone grafting treatment as it has been shown to cause high failure rates.

What can I eat with my dental implants?

We advise eating soft foods for the first few days after surgery, and then to build up slowly with different foods whilst you get used to your new tooth or teeth.

Once you have your final, long-lasting teeth, everything is back on the menu – crunchy apples, chewy steaks and crusty bread – not to mention ice cold drinks!

How long do dental implants last?

Dental implants are long-lasting tooth replacement solution.

There are two key components to dental implants:

  • The titanium rods that replace the natural tooth root. These can last decades if well placed and a high quality implant is used
  • The crown, or bridge, that replaces the actual teeth. These are also long-lasting but, like natural teeth can chip or wear down.  Fixes can be easily made.

They can last a lifetime

Dental implants can last a lifetime if they are well-cared for.

Once treatment is complete, the responsibility lies with the patient to keep them in good condition.

Patients should ensure good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups.

Lifestyle choices such as smoking can reduce long-terms success rates.

Dental implant cost

About David Neal Dental

How much do dental implants cost?

Dental implant costs do vary widely, often reflecting the skills and experience of the implant surgeon, the quality of implants and materials used, and the standards of patient care.

At David Neal Dental we believe in fair and transparent treatment costs.

  • Single implants cost – from £3,000
  • Full arch same day implants – £16,000 per arch (£32,000 for both upper and lower arches)

Visit our cost page for full pricing and information.

Why do costs vary so much?

Treatment costs are often a reflection of the following:

  • The skill and experience of the implant surgeon
  • How currently and frequently they place implants
  • Implant techniques available – traditional versus same day
  • Safety standards and a professional environment
  • Quality of materials used (implants etc)
  • Quality of equipment used
  • Bespoke prosthesis creation versus “off the shelf” limited choice
  • Technology and techniques used for precise planning and safety
  • Treatment success rates
  • Standards of patient care
  • Continuity of care from start to finish
  • Aftercare – accountability if things go wrong
  • Transparency in costs – might there be unexpected extras?

 

Why do dental implant costs vary so much?

Do you offer payment plans?

Payment plans are available to suitable patients who prefer to spread the cost of treatment.

These finance options are provided by our third-party lender Simplyhealth Funding Services (SFS).

Your Treatment Co-ordinator can talk to you about the options available, and guide you through the application process as required.

Visit our cost page for information on payment plans.

Why is dental treatment cheaper abroad?

Dentistry abroad can be significantly less expensive than in the UK, attracting “dental tourists” who travel overseas to take advantage of lower treatment costs.

If this is something you are considering, careful research is advised to make sure you find a reputable team who will treat you safely.

Check details including:

  • The qualifications and experience of the dental  surgeon
  • The quality of implants and materials they use
  • Whether the practices meest international dentistry standards
  • What aftercare is available, and what happens if something goes wrong.

All of these elements contribute to clinically safe treatment and successful outcomes.

https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad/going-abroad-for-treatment/treatment-abroad-checklist/

The NHS highlights the following warning signs:

  • A hard sell
  • A lack of information
  • Pressure to make a quick decision
  • No discussion of possible complications
  • No mention of aftercare

 

Read our blog – Dental Treatment abroad

How much does a CT scan cost?

CT scan – cost £200

If, after attending your initial consultation, you wish to progress to the next step you will have a CT scan.

CT scans are used to:

  • Analyse the amount and quality of jawbone available to support dental implants.
  • Confirm your suitability for treatment before we create your personalised treatment plan.
  • Plan your surgery and guide precise implant placement.

What is specialist-led care?

A dentist may only refer to themselves a “specialist” if they are a UK registered General Dental Council dentist who has completed additional, approved training in a specific area of dentistry.

They are then on the GDC’s specialist list for that particular area of dentistry expertise and experience.

In the case of dental implant placement, especially for more advanced techniques and complex cases, being treated by a specialist provides reassurance that treatment is being carried out by an expert in the field, with proven experience and outcomes.

At David Neal Dental, clinical care is led by specialist periodontist and co-founder, Dr Michael Zybutz, and specialist oral surgeon, Dr Liliana Ruzzene (Langport).

How do you approach patient care?

David Neal Dental is a family owned group of four dental practices.

We like to think we do things a bit differently when it comes to patient care.

Everything we do – from the treatments we offer to every detail in our surgeries – is underpinned by putting our patients first.

Our caring approach:

  • You will be treated with respect and warmth by everyone you meet
  • You can trust in our reputation for high quality clinical care and consistently outstanding results
  • Our teams are chosen for their skills, experience and caring
  • We take time to listen, so we truly understand your needs and wishes
  • We never pressurise or make you feel judged
  • Our practices are welcoming, calm and professional, designed to make you feel as relaxed as possible
  • Our surgeries are state-of-the-art; we use only the highest quality materials to ensure the best results

Your Treatment Co-ordinator will guide you every step of the way, on-hand to answer questions and make sure your treatment journey runs as smoothly as possible.

Do you offer sedation?

We offer conscious sedation for Teeth in a Day patients.

It is administered by our specialist sedationist, who remains with you throughout surgery.

Conscious sedation is a technique where patients remain awake but feel totally relaxed.

It works in tandem with the local anaesthetic that’s gently administered by our specialist surgeon, ensuring a virtually pain-free experience.

It’s ideal for nervous patients, reducing anxiety and creating the feeling that time passes very quickly.

Many patients remember nothing, or very little, afterwards.

Do you offer a guarantee for dental implant treatment?

Dental implants can last a lifetime if they are correctly placed, high-quality materials are used and if you – the patient – care for them properly.

The most important step for dental implant success is osseointegration, the medical term for when the bone forms a biological bond to the implant.

Failure to osseointegrate is the most common cause of modern dental implant failure.

Any failure would become apparent 2-3 months after surgery when we replace the temporary fixed teeth with the permanent set.

If any implant is needed to support your new teeth and has not integrated with your bone by this time, we will replace the implant or place / utilise a further implant to support the teeth, free of charge.

Your new teeth are subject to wear and tear – just like natural teeth.

Any chips or breakages to the teeth can be quickly and easily repaired.  David Neal Dental will provide these repairs free of charge for one year, as long as the teeth and implants are being well maintained with a good at home dental hygiene routine and regular hygienist visits.

Long-term success rates are the responsibility of the patient as they depend so heavily upon the patient maintaining a good oral hygiene programme – we teach our patients exactly how to clean and care for them – going for regular dental check-ups and hygiene visits, and positive lifestyle choices such as not smoking – just as with natural teeth.

Do you have your own dental lab?

Smiling Arches is our privately owned dental laboratory where our skilled technicians create the new teeth for our Teeth in a Day patients.

With a reputation for delivering the highest quality work for over 40 years, they use the latest equipment and materials to craft bespoke designs to suit each individual patients’ aesthetic requirements.