Dental Implants

Dental implants can be a great option for people who:

• Have one or more missing teeth
• Want a long-term, durable solution (they can last decades with care)
• Prefer something more stable than removable dentures
• Do not want to damage adjacent teeth by preparing them for crowns to support a bridge

They’re commonly recommended for people who:

• Lost teeth due to injury, decay, or conditions like Periodontal disease
• Struggle with loose or uncomfortable dentures
• Want to preserve jawbone structure (implants help prevent bone loss)
• Want to preserve the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth

Implants may not be suitable (or may need extra preparation) if someone:

• Has significant bone loss (though bone grafting / augmentation can help)
• Has uncontrolled health conditions or require some further medical intervention 
• Smokes heavily (can affect healing)
• Has poor oral hygiene habits

The dental implant journey is a step-by-step process that happens over several months. Knowing what’s coming can make it feel much more manageable.

1. Initial consultation

You’ll meet your Dr Licenblat for:

• Examination of your teeth and gums
• X-rays & 3D scans
• Discussion of your medical history
• Discussion of treatment options
• Discussion of Bone building if required

2. Preparation (if needed)

Not everyone needs this, but some people do:

• Tooth extraction if a damaged tooth is still present
• Bone building – augmentation of your jawbone if the bone isn’t thick or strong enough

Bone grafts can take a few months to heal before moving on and sometimes can be done at the same time as an implant

3. Implant placement surgery

• A small titanium or zirconia screw is placed into your jawbone
• Usually done under local anaesthetic (you’re awake but numb) but we do offer both IV  (Twilight) sedation & General Anaesthetics 
• Mild swelling or discomfort for a few days afterward but this is usually managed very successfully with medication

This is where Osseointegration begins—the implant gradually fuses with your bone.

4. Healing period (osseointegration)

• Typically takes 3–6 months
• The implant becomes securely anchored in your jaw
• You may have a temporary tooth during this time

This stage is crucial for long-term success.

5. Abutment placement

• A small connector (abutment) is attached to the implant
• Minor procedure, sometimes without surgery
• Gums heal around it in a couple of weeks, after which intraoral scans are done to begin the final tooth construction

6. Final crown placement

• A custom-made crown is attached
• Designed to match your natural teeth in shape and colour
• You can now chew and smile normally again
• The internal screw is often checked once or more to ensure correct seating and longevity

7. Aftercare & maintenance

• Brush and clean daily (as directed by Dr Licenblat and his staff)
• Regular dental check-ups
• Avoid smoking if possible (it affects healing and longevity)

Overall timeline

• Simple cases: 3–6 months
• With bone grafting: 6–12 months or more

Most patients are able to undergo implant placement with the use of local anaesthesia, which is intended to minimise discomfort during the procedure. Experiences can vary between individuals, and your clinician will discuss what to expect and how any discomfort can be managed.

For patients who feel anxious about treatment, sedation options may be available following an assessment to determine suitability.