Implants are an excellent option for the right site. The planning question is whether they are the right option for this tooth, in this patient, now.
Vikas explains
Watch: Dr Prinja explains
A concise video explanation, supported by the written guidance on this page.
What happens after you lose a tooth?
Dr Prinja explains tooth loss and the importance of preserving bone and assessing replacement options. An implant is one option, not an automatic first choice.
Can the tooth be kept?
Before any discussion of replacement, the tooth itself is assessed. Where it can be restored with a filling, onlay, crown or root canal treatment and has a reasonable long-term outlook, keeping it is usually the first option discussed.
Which factors need assessing first?
- Gum health: active gum disease is treated and stabilised before implant surgery.
- General health and medication, which can affect healing.
- Smoking, which is associated with a higher risk of implant complications.
- Bone volume and the position of nearby structures, checked with radiographs and, where indicated, 3D imaging.
- Bite forces and grinding, which affect what is placed on the implant.
What if there is not enough bone?
Bone grafting can sometimes rebuild the site, but it adds a healing stage and its own considerations. In some cases a different approach is simpler and more appropriate.
When might a bridge or denture be more appropriate?
A bridge can suit a space where the neighbouring teeth already need crowns. A denture can be the right choice where several teeth are missing, where surgery is not wanted, or as an interim step. Each has its own maintenance and limitations, which are set out in writing.
Common questions
Can I find out online whether I am suitable for implants?
No. Suitability depends on examination, gum health, medical history and imaging of the bone. A consultation is the only way to give a reliable answer.
References
- Standards for the Dental TeamGeneral Dental Council
- Peri-implant health, peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis — classification and managementBritish Society of Periodontology
- BSP implementation of the European S3-level treatment guideline for stage I–III periodontitisBritish Society of Periodontology
- Management of Dental Patients — clinical guidanceScottish Dental Clinical Effectiveness Programme
General information only — it does not replace an individual assessment with Dr Vikas Prinja.