An implant replaces the root of a missing tooth. A small titanium post is placed into the jawbone, the bone fuses to it over several months, and a crown is fixed on top. Unlike a denture it does not come out, and unlike a bridge it does not require cutting down the healthy teeth on either side.
The three parts
- The implant — a titanium post placed in the bone, taking the place of the root.
- The abutment — a connector that sits at gum level and joins the implant to the crown.
- The crown — the visible tooth, made to match the shade and shape of your own teeth.
Why the bone matters
When a tooth is lost, the bone that used to support it begins to shrink, because nothing is stimulating it any more. This is why implants placed sooner are often more straightforward, and why someone who lost a tooth many years ago may need bone grafting first to rebuild enough volume to hold an implant securely.
It is also the main reason an implant differs from other options: it is the only replacement that loads the bone the way a natural root does.
The stages, and how long it takes
Implant treatment is deliberately spread out. Most of the time involved is healing, not appointments.
- Assessment and planning. Examination, X-rays or 3D imaging to measure bone height, width and the position of nerves and sinuses. Your medical history and gum health are reviewed carefully at this stage.
- Preparation if needed. Treating active gum disease first, extracting a failing tooth, or bone grafting. Placing an implant into an unhealthy mouth is a route to failure.
- Placement. Done under local anaesthetic. The implant is placed into prepared bone and the gum closed over or around it.
- Healing and integration. Several months while bone grows onto the implant surface. A temporary tooth can usually be provided so you are not left with a visible gap.
- Fitting the crown. Impressions are taken, the abutment fitted, and the final crown attached and checked against your bite.
- Review. Ongoing checks and professional cleaning around the implant.
The whole process commonly spans several months. We will give you an honest timeline for your specific case at the planning stage — it is not a treatment to rush.
Who is suitable
Most adults with healthy gums and enough bone. Things that need discussion first:
- Smoking — significantly increases the risk of implant failure. We will be straightforward with you about this.
- Uncontrolled diabetes — affects healing; well-controlled diabetes is usually not a barrier.
- Active gum disease — must be treated and stable first.
- Grinding or clenching — manageable, often with a night guard, but it needs planning for.
- Certain medicines and medical conditions, particularly some bone medications — which is why the medical history matters.
- Growing teenagers — implants are normally delayed until jaw growth is complete.
Looking after an implant
An implant cannot decay, but the gum and bone around it can become inflamed and infected — peri-implantitis — in much the same way gum disease affects natural teeth. It is the commonest reason implants fail late. Brushing, cleaning between the teeth, not smoking, and regular professional cleaning are what keep it stable.
What we will tell you honestly
Implants are not right for everyone, and they are not the cheapest option. At your consultation we will set out the alternatives — including a bridge, a denture, or leaving the gap — with the advantages and drawbacks of each, so the decision is genuinely yours.
Common questions
Does placing an implant hurt?
The procedure is done under local anaesthetic, so you should feel pressure but not pain. Most people describe the recovery as more comfortable than they expected — often easier than an extraction. Some swelling and soreness for a few days is normal.
How long do implants last?
They are designed as a long-term solution and many function for decades, but no dental treatment carries a guarantee. Longevity depends heavily on gum health, smoking, bite forces and maintenance. The crown on top may need replacing before the implant itself does.
Can I have implants if I wear a full denture?
Often yes. A small number of implants can be used to stabilise a loose lower denture, which many people find transformative for eating. It is usually less involved than replacing every tooth individually.
Can it be done in one visit?
Immediate placement and temporary teeth are possible in selected cases, but they depend on bone quality and the specific situation. Be cautious of any promise of a complete implant in a day made before anyone has examined you or looked at your bone.
What it costs
We do not publish a price list, because the right treatment — and so the price — depends on what we find when we examine you. What we promise instead:
- A written treatment plan and quote before any work begins
- No charges you have not agreed to first
- Payment by MTN MoMo, Airtel Money or card
Nervous about this treatment?
Tell us when you book. We allow extra time, explain each step before we do it, and stop whenever you ask us to.
Further reading: What actually decides the cost of a dental implant