Procedure guide · Implant dentistry and oral surgery
A dental implant is a titanium screw placed into the jaw bone to support a crown, bridge or denture. The NHS says implants can replace one tooth or several. Replacement parts are made to fit your mouth, so they may not be ready at the first visit. Implant treatment usually needs more than one trip.
What is a dental implant?
The NHS explains that the implant replaces the root of a missing tooth. A crown, bridge or denture is then fixed onto it. MedlinePlus notes that crowns can be used to restore an implant. It also notes that an implant is one option when a damaged tooth has to be removed. The NHS dentures guide says implants can support crowns or some types of dentures.
Who may be suitable?
A dentist decides after examining your mouth and X-rays. Ask about the health of your gums and the amount of bone at the implant site. The NHS notes that implants are usually provided privately. It says they are sometimes available on the NHS for people who cannot wear dentures for certain reasons. Alternatives include bridges, which are fixed to neighbouring teeth, and dentures, which are removable.
Which reports does a dentist usually ask for?
Send recent dental X-rays. If you have a 3D jaw scan (CBCT), send the image files, not only the report. Add a list of missing and problem teeth, and any notes from your dentist at home. List medical conditions and medicines. Mention diabetes, smoking and blood thinners, and any medicines affecting bone. Photographs of your smile and bite can help with remote planning.
Plan for at least two trips
Implant placement and the final teeth are often done at different times. Ask the dentist to set out each stage before you book, and what you will wear in between.
How do you plan the trip?
The stages are a remote review, an examination with scans and placement of the implant. A healing period follows, then a return visit to fit the final crown, bridge or denture. Ask whether a temporary tooth will be fitted between visits. Ask also which checks your dentist at home can do. Keep a record of the implant brand and parts used. A future dentist needs them for repairs. Your dentist decides when the next stage can go ahead.
What should you ask the dentist?
- Do I have enough bone, or will I need bone grafting first?
- How many visits will the full treatment need?
- What will I wear while the implant heals?
- Which implant system will you use, and will you give me its details?
- What should I do if the crown loosens after I go home?
- Who can carry out check-ups in my country?
Questions people ask
How is an implant different from a bridge?
The NHS explains that an implant is a titanium screw placed in the jaw bone to support new teeth. A bridge is fixed to neighbouring teeth to fill a gap. Your dentist will explain which suits your mouth.
Can implants support dentures?
Yes. The NHS says implants can support crowns, bridges or some types of dentures. A dentist will assess how many implants would be needed and whether your jaw can support them.
Why should I keep a record of my implant parts?
Implant systems differ. If a crown loosens or a part breaks later, a dentist at home will need to know the brand and parts used. Ask the Indian dentist for these details in writing before you leave.
Are implants ever offered instead of dentures for medical reasons?
The NHS says that although it is rare, implants are sometimes available on the NHS for people who cannot wear dentures for certain reasons. Your dentist will explain whether an implant or a denture suits your situation.
Sources
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. Your treating specialist decides on suitability, treatment and length of stay. How we write and check.