Implants are used to help replace missing teeth. In the same way that a natural tooth is held in place by a root embedded in the jawbone, an implant uses a small medical-grade titanium screw placed into the bone. As the bone heals around the implant, it fuses securely, allowing a final restoration (such as a crown or bridge) to be attached.
Implants can be used in several different ways, giving great flexibility to their range of uses:
Because implant-supported crowns and bridges are not removable, they allow you to eat, drink, smile, and talk as if you had no teeth missing at all. Implants also help preserve jawbone and gum tissue, maintaining healthy facial contours and preventing an ageing appearance caused by bone loss.
At Heathwood Dental Practice, implant treatments are carried out by Neena Kumar, who has undertaken extensive training in this field and has a wealth of experience in providing tailored implant solutions for patients.
Implants can only be placed into solid bone. After a tooth is removed, the bone needs 3–6 months to heal before an implant can be placed under local anaesthetic.
Dental implants are generally safe and widely used. The procedure is performed under strict hygiene and professional standards. Careful assessment ensures suitability for each patient, minimising complications. Success rates are high when implants are placed by experienced dental professionals and cared for long-term by both the practice and the patient.
Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as a stable foundation for replacement teeth. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone, providing support for crowns, bridges, or dentures, restoring chewing function and improving oral structure.
With proper care and regular dental check-ups, dental implants can last a lifetime. The crown or restoration on top may need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years due to wear, but the implant itself is designed to last for decades.
Most patients experience little to no pain during the procedure due to local anesthesia. Afterward, some swelling and discomfort may occur, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
The entire dental implant process can take anywhere from 4 to 7 months, including the healing time for osseointegration. This timeline can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the number of implants being placed.
Healing time for dental implants typically ranges from 3 to 6 months. This allows the implant to integrate fully with the jawbone. Healing may vary depending on individual health, oral hygiene, and the complexity of the procedure.
After receiving a dental implant, patients may experience mild swelling, bruising, or discomfort at the implant site. Some may notice temporary bleeding or sensitivity. These effects are usually short-term and manageable with prescribed care and follow-up appointments.
Patients are advised to start with soft foods immediately after implant surgery and gradually resume normal eating as healing progresses, usually within a few weeks. The exact timing depends on bone integration and individual recovery.
Risks of dental implants are low but can include infection, implant failure, nerve irritation, or sinus issues in upper jaw cases. Thorough planning, proper placement, and post-surgery care help minimise these risks. Regular follow-ups ensure any issues are detected early.
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Heathwood Dental is a fantastic dental practice. Dr Vishal Kumar is very knowledgeable, highly skilled and always takes the time to talk through any proposed treatment and particular techniques/materi… Read More
I’m one step closer to my brand new tooth, despite being MANY years past the age of new teeth. Thanks to Neena and Mariska at Heathwood Dental I had a smooth, pain free, easy impant of the ‘socket’ in… Read More
I transferred to the Kings Road site when Vishal took over Heathwood Dental Practice from Dr Smith in 2005, it formerly being located in Ellis Road. Moving from a known dentist to someone new has alwa… Read More
Absolutely first rate service. Incredible expertise and use the latest techniques and materials. I travel nearly an hour to go here as it’s by far, the best practise I have ever been to by a considera… Read More
I cannot praise Heathwood Dental practice enough. All staff are extremely easy to deal with and pleasant. I have been treated for many years by Dr. Vishal Kumar and would recommend him to anyone. He i… Read More
