Dental Implants
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are designed to replace the root of a missing tooth.
They are typically made from titanium or another biocompatible material and are surgically placed into the jawbone. Once the implant has integrated with the surrounding bone, it can provide a stable foundation for a replacement tooth, bridge or denture.
A dental implant can provide a highly natural-looking and functional solution for replacing missing teeth and, unlike a conventional bridge, can often replace a tooth without preparing neighbouring healthy teeth.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Depending on your individual circumstances, dental implants can offer several important advantages:
- A fixed solution – implants are securely anchored within the jaw rather than being removed like conventional dentures.
- No need to rely on neighbouring teeth – a single implant can replace a missing tooth independently in suitable cases.
- Natural-looking results – the visible replacement tooth can be designed to complement your natural teeth.
- Restored chewing function – implants can provide a stable foundation for replacement teeth.
- Support for the jawbone – replacing the root can help reduce the bone resorption that commonly occurs following tooth loss.
- Versatility – implants can be used to replace one tooth, several teeth or, in suitable cases, support a full arch of replacement teeth.
- Confidence – a secure replacement can make eating, speaking and smiling feel more natural.
The suitability and expected outcome of implant treatment varies from patient to patient and will depend on factors including bone volume, gum health, general health and oral hygiene.
Does getting dental implants hurt?
Implant placement is carried out using local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during the procedure.
As with any form of oral surgery, some tenderness, swelling or discomfort can occur afterwards as the anaesthetic wears off. This is usually manageable with appropriate post-operative care and routine pain relief where suitable.
We will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions and explain what to expect during your recovery.
How long does implant treatment take?
The overall treatment time varies considerably between patients.
In selected cases, an implant may be placed at the same time as a tooth is removed and a temporary replacement may be provided.
More commonly, the implant is placed and then allowed time to integrate with the surrounding bone before the permanent replacement tooth is fitted.
This process, known as osseointegration, commonly takes around 3–6 months, although the exact timeframe depends on the individual patient, implant site and treatment plan.
If bone grafting or other preparatory treatment is required, the overall treatment period may be longer.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are designed as a long-term tooth replacement solution.
Their longevity depends on factors such as oral hygiene, gum health, smoking, general health, bite forces and regular professional maintenance.
With good home care and regular dental and hygiene appointments, implants can remain functional for many years. The visible crown or other prosthetic component may require maintenance or replacement over time.
Can anyone have dental implants?
Many adults can be suitable candidates for dental implant treatment, but an assessment is essential.
We will consider factors including:
- The health and volume of your jawbone
- The condition of your gums
- Your general health and ability to undergo minor oral surgery
- Your oral hygiene
- Smoking status
- Existing dental conditions
- Any medications or medical factors that could affect healing
Active, uncontrolled gum disease should generally be treated before implant placement because healthy gums and supporting tissues are important for long-term implant success.
Certain medical conditions and lifestyle factors may increase the risk of complications or implant failure. Your dentist will assess your individual circumstances and explain whether implants are an appropriate option for you.
Testimonials
Chrissie Parker
3 months ago
Always excellent care and advice. I have complete trust in Deborah and her staff
Ron Docking
3 months ago
Broken tooth and chip stuck under gum while on holiday. First day back, Dmitri carefully removed broken chip,filled remaining tooth.Excellent speedy service!
David Perks
3 months ago
Courteous and helpful service. I have been a client for many years for regular tooth maintenance and repair
Rod Parrish
3 months ago
Elliot
3 months ago
Been coming here since I was 8. It is a very nice practice and everyone is very welcoming
Vicky Salter
4 months ago
I have been coming to New Road Dental practice since I was a baby. I am now 34 and this will always be my dentist. I am always treated with such great care and patience. From the dentist to the hygienist, I am always given such great advice on how to keep my teeth and gums healthy. Reception are always the loveliest ladies too.
Maximilian Harazin
5 months ago
I’ve been going to New Road Dental for my regular checkups and dental work for years, and I couldn’t be happier. My dentist, Debbie, is absolutely wonderful. She always treats me with outstanding professionalism, genuine friendliness, and respect. I highly recommend her and the practice to anyone looking for a great dentist!
Alison Speed
5 months ago
All team members are Friendly & helpful
John Willis
5 months ago
The staff are all very cheerful, welcoming and professional. It is easy to make an appointment and once at the surgery there is very little waiting time. I have been coming to this practice for dental treatment since 1981 and I have always been extremely satisfied with the service.
Ken Snow
6 months ago
I’ve received dental treatment at NRDP over many years and have always found them to be very professional & accommodating. Equipment is modern and under Dimitri’s leadership the Team provides a warm & friendly environment in which to have treatment . Ken S.
Rosalind Pritchard
6 months ago
Excellent level of treatment, good clear explanation of work required. Very friendly staff who go the extra mile to be helpful. Thank you all.
Sam and Samantha Orsborne
6 months ago
From the moment we arrived, we were made to feel really welcome. The receptionist was so friendly and kind, and took the time to chat with us which instantly put us at ease. There’s parking right outside the building as well, which made getting there really easy and stress-free.
We went for teeth whitening, and before anything started, Dimitri explained everything properly to us in a way that was easy to understand. We never felt rushed and could ask as many questions as we wanted, which made us feel really comfortable and confident from the start. You can tell they genuinely care about their patients and want you to feel relaxed.
The clinic itself is very modern and spotless, with really impressive equipment. We had 3D scans done for the moulds, which was such a cool experience and made everything feel very high-tech and precise. Throughout the whole appointment we felt like we were in safe hands and were looked after so well. Overall, it was such a positive experience and we received amazing care from start to finish.
Cezary Kucewicz
7 months ago
I came in for an emergency appointment, which ultimately led to the extraction of my wisdom tooth. I’m usually quite nervous about visiting the dentist, but Debbie and her team were absolutely incredible – without a doubt the best dental experience I’ve ever had!
From the moment I walked in, their warmth, friendliness and professionalism immediately put me at ease. The whole procedure was carried out quickly, smoothly and completely painlessly, bringing instant relief after several days of tooth pain.
I’m so grateful for the care I received and couldn’t recommend New Road Dental Practice more highly. Truly outstanding!
Robert Moss
8 months ago
I have been with this Surgery since 2020 and have always received an excellent service from the team. Communication is a massive plus especially the appointment reminders.
Christine Bainbridge
8 months ago
Dimitri and his team strike the right balance between top-notch professional clinical treatment and a friendly atmosphere. It’s a pleasure to go to New Road Dental practice, where I know I can expect first-class care. Excellent patient experience: if I could award more than five stars, I would! Thank you everyone.
Beverley Elston
9 months ago
Dr. Deborah Johnson is my dentist.
I’m a new patient at this practice and I have received nothing but great service from all the staff members, a warm welcome.
Thorough and great results from my treatment.
I would highly recommend this dental practice.
Thank you to the team Beverley
Chris Dyson
10 months ago
I am usually reluctant to post reviews in case it jinxes an otherwise good product or service, but in the case of New Road Dental practice I have no such reservations. They are excellent! During an appointment with Debbie today, I had what I shall call a composite reconstruction. Most of my tooth was gone but she did an amazing job of rebuilding it so that it is now indistinguishable from the one next to it. All the while taking care to keep me informed in her friendly and professional way. Many thanks to Debbie, her able assistant and all the team at New Road Dental practice.
Kathryn Bowman
10 months ago
From the moment you arrive you are met with a welcome smile.
All the team are kind, friendly and professional.
I’ve been a patient of Dimitri’s for a few years now and he is so patient, putting you at ease and explaining fully the required treatment.
“Kindness, professional expertise and reliability in an emergency…the perfect Saffron Walden dentist.