What is the process?

Your Journey Through Dental Implant Treatment

A clear, step-by-step guide to what you can expect from referral to final restoration.

Dental implants are one of the most predictable and long-lasting solutions for missing teeth. To ensure you receive the safest and most accurate treatment possible, we follow a structured, evidence-based process from your first consultation to your final restoration. Here is exactly what your implant journey looks like.

1. Referral or Initial Enquiry

Many patients come to us through referral from their general dentist, while others contact us directly.
Whichever route you take, the first step is to gather essential information about your dental and medical history so we can prepare for your consultation. Your dentist may also send existing radiographs or clinical notes to help us understand your situation before you arrive.

2. Comprehensive Implant Consultation

Your first appointment focuses on understanding your concerns and exploring all suitable treatment options.

During this visit, we will:

  • Discuss your dental history, medical history, and goals for treatment
  • Assess your gums, bite, and overall oral health
  • Examine the areas where teeth are missing or where implants may be needed
  • Explain the principles of implant treatment, likely timelines, and anticipated outcomes

This is a relaxed, informative appointment designed to answer all your questions and help you feel fully confident about the next steps.

3. Detailed Clinical Examination

If implants are appropriate, we then perform a thorough, structured examination to assess bone quality, soft-tissue health, and your suitability for implant placement.

This includes:

  • A full periodontal assessment
  • Evaluation of jaw relationships and bite dynamics
  • Analysis of any remaining teeth and their long-term prognosis
  • Photographs for records and treatment planning
  • Assessment of risk factors such as grinding, smoking, or previous bone loss

This stage ensures we design a plan that is not only functional but predictable long-term.

4. Advanced Digital Imaging: Radiographs, CBCT, and Intraoral Scans

To provide safe, precise, minimally invasive implant treatment, we use advanced diagnostic technologies.

Digital X-rays

A small intraoral radiograph may be taken to assess the general condition of the bone and any adjacent teeth.

CBCT Scan (3D Imaging)

A Cone Beam CT scan gives a high-resolution 3D model of your jawbone.
This allows us to measure:

  • Bone width and height
  • Bone density
  • Location of vital anatomical structures
  • The ideal position and angulation for implant placement

CBCT imaging is essential for accurate, guided, and predictable implant surgery.

Intraoral Digital Scans

Instead of traditional impressions, we use a 3D scanner to create a digital model of your teeth and bite.
These scans help us:

  • Virtually plan implant placement
  • Design surgical guides
  • Preview the final restoration for a more aesthetic and personalised result

Together, these imaging tools form the foundation for precise digital treatment planning.

5. Treatment Planning and Discussion of Options

Following the diagnostic phase, we create a personalised treatment plan based on your clinical needs and your preferences.

Your plan will include:

  • The number and type of implants recommended
  • Whether any bone or soft-tissue grafting is needed
  • Surgical options (guided vs freehand placement)
  • A timeline from surgery to final restoration
  • Clear costs for each stage
  • Alternatives such as bridges, dentures, or doing nothing

We will talk you through the risks, benefits, longevity, and expected outcomes so you can make an informed decision. You are encouraged to ask as many questions as you wish.

6. Precise Implant Surgery

Your implant surgery will be carried out in a sterile, dedicated surgical environment using proven techniques and evidence-based protocols.

On the day of surgery:

  • We review your plan and answer last-minute questions
  • Local anaesthetic is used to keep you fully comfortable
  • The implant is carefully placed into the jawbone—often using digital surgical guides for maximum accuracy
  • If appropriate, a temporary restoration may be placed the same day (“immediate loading”)
  • Otherwise, the implant is left to heal beneath the gum

Most patients report that implant surgery is far more comfortable than they expected.

7. Healing and Osseointegration

Over the next 8–12 weeks, the implant integrates naturally with your bone.
During this phase we may schedule review appointments to monitor healing, ensure comfort, and check that everything is progressing as expected.

Good oral hygiene and following our post-operative advice are key to long-term success.

8. Restorative Phase: Creating Your New Tooth

Once the implant has fully integrated, we begin the restorative stage.

This involves:

  • Taking a final intraoral scan or impression
  • Choosing the correct abutment and restoration type (crown, bridge, or full-arch solution)
  • Designing a tooth that matches your natural smile in colour, shape, and bite
  • Fitting the final restoration with precise adjustments

The result is a strong, natural-looking tooth that functions just like the one you lost.

9. Aftercare and Long-Term Maintenance

Implants require routine maintenance to ensure they remain healthy for decades.

We advise:

  • Oral hygiene instructions tailored to your restoration
  • A review schedule (usually 3–12 months depending on the case)
  • Support with implant cleaning techniques
  • Guidance on protecting the implant if you clench or grind

With the right care, dental implants can last a lifetime.

Ready to Start Your Implant Journey?

If you would like to discuss replacing missing teeth, improving your smile, or exploring full-arch solutions, we’re here to help.
Simply contact us or request a consultation, and we’ll guide you through every step. Contact Us