Dental Implants
The Walton Practice
Dental & Aesthetic ClinicDental & Aesthetic Clinic
Dental Implants
The gold standard for replacing missing teeth, permanent, natural-feeling and built to last a lifetime.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post that is placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once it has fused with the bone, a process called osseointegration, a custom-made crown is attached on top, creating a replacement tooth that looks, feels and functions exactly like a natural one.
Unlike dentures or bridges, implants don't rely on adjacent teeth for support, don't move, and actively preserve the jawbone, preventing the bone loss and facial changes that occur after tooth loss.
Why choose implants over other options?
- —Permanent, no need for removal or adhesives
- —Preserve jawbone and facial structure
- —Look and feel identical to natural teeth
- —Don't affect adjacent healthy teeth
- —Easier to clean than bridges
- —Can last 20–30 years or more with proper care
Our implant team
Implants at The Walton Practice are provided by Dr Deepak Sumal, our specialist in prosthodontics and implantology, who qualified from Barts and London in 2009 and holds a postgraduate certificate in endodontics. He carries out all stages of treatment in-house, from planning and placement to the final restoration.
The Implant Process
Consultation & Planning
Clinical examination and full assessment of bone and gum health. Treatment options discussed.
3D CBCT Scan
We carry out a 3D CBCT scan of your jaws to assess bone density, volume and anatomy. This allows us to plan implant placement with precision and identify if bone grafting is required.
Implant Placement
Titanium implant placed into the jawbone under local anaesthetic.
Osseointegration
The implant fuses with the jawbone over a period of around 2–3 months. A healing cap is placed to maintain the gum shape during this time.
Impressions & Crown
Once healed, impressions taken and custom crown fabricated.
Final Fitting
Crown fitted and checked for bite and aesthetics. Final result reviewed.
Implant Fees
All prices are indicative. Exact costs confirmed at consultation following assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I suitable for dental implants?
Most adults with good general health are suitable for implants. Key factors include sufficient jawbone volume, healthy gums and no uncontrolled systemic conditions. We carry out a thorough assessment including 3D CBCT scans to confirm suitability.
Does the procedure hurt?
No, implant placement is carried out under local anaesthetic and is typically more comfortable than a tooth extraction. Many patients are surprised at how little they feel during and after the procedure.
How long do implants last?
With proper care, dental implants can last 20–30 years or more. The implant itself (the titanium root) can last a lifetime, only the crown on top may need replacing after 10–15 years.
How long does the process take?
The time from implant placement to fitting the final crown typically takes around 2–3 months, although this can vary depending on individual healing and treatment requirements. Cases requiring bone grafting or additional procedures may take longer.
What happens if I don't have enough bone?
Bone grafting can be carried out to augment areas of bone loss before or at the time of implant placement. We'll assess this at your consultation.
Can I have multiple implants or full-arch restorations?
Yes, we offer single tooth implants, implant-supported bridges and implant-retained dentures. For patients missing all or most of their teeth, All-on-4 and similar full-arch solutions may be appropriate.
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