The basics
What is a dental implant?
An implant is a small titanium post that replaces the root of a missing tooth. Once it has fused with the jawbone, it supports a crown, a bridge or a full set of teeth. Replacing missing teeth helps protect the jawbone and the teeth around the gap, and can make eating and speaking easier.
Suitability
Is it right for me?
Implants can be an option if you have missing teeth and cannot, or would rather not, use dentures, bridges or crowns. There must be enough bone to hold the implant; where there is not, bone grafting may be discussed. Some conditions need extra care or may make implants unsuitable. Tell your dentist if any of these apply:
- Diabetes or a heart or circulation condition
- Bone growth not yet complete (younger patients)
- Pregnancy
- Heavy smoking, alcohol or drug dependency
- High-dose radiotherapy to the head or neck
- High blood pressure or connective tissue conditions
- Haemophilia or immune system problems
Before treatment
Assessment and planning
Examination & imaging
X-rays and 3D images of your jaw; models of your teeth are prepared.
Medical history
Tell your dentist about any medicines or supplements you take. Some patients need antibiotics before surgery.
Your treatment plan
Based on how many teeth are missing, the condition of your jawbone and your remaining teeth.
Step by step
The procedure
Implant treatment is an outpatient procedure under local anaesthetic, or general anaesthesia when needed, usually carried out in stages:
- 01
Removal
Any damaged tooth is removed.
- 02
Bone preparation
Bone grafting, only if needed.
- 03
Implant placement
The titanium post is placed in the jaw.
- 04
Healing
The bone grows around the implant.
- 05
Abutment
The connector for the new tooth is fitted.
- 06
Final tooth
The crown or bridge is fitted.
Trips & timing
How many trips?
Implant treatment is usually carried out in stages. On the first trip the implants are placed; once the bone has healed around them, the permanent teeth are fitted. How many trips you need, how long you stay and how long healing takes depend entirely on your treatment, and your dentist sets these out in your written plan. Same-day implants, where suitable, follow a different timeline.
Materials
Implant systems we use
We use Straumann and Neodent implant systems. Your dentist will explain which system is planned for you and why, and it will be named in your written plan.
Switzerland · since 1954
Straumann
Straumann is a Swiss dental implant company based in Basel. Its implants have been in clinical use since the 1970s and are supported by a large body of published clinical research.
- Titanium implants, plus Roxolid® titanium-zirconium implants for narrow spaces
- SLActive® implant surface, designed to support healing into the bone
- A wide range of abutments for crowns, bridges and full-arch restorations
Brazil · since 1993
Neodent
Neodent was founded in Curitiba, Brazil, and has been part of the Straumann Group since 2015. Its implants are designed for strong initial stability in the bone, which supports placing temporary teeth soon after surgery where your bone allows.
- Implants with the Grand Morse® connection between implant and abutment
- Helix® implant design, built for stability in softer bone
- Options for single teeth, bridges and full-arch treatment, including same-day temporary teeth where suitable
How your dentist chooses
The system is recommended after your 3D scan, based on the amount and quality of your bone, where the implant will sit, the restoration planned on top and your budget. The system, implant type and crown or bridge are named in your written plan before you travel. Ask your coordinator for the implant details (brand, type and size) to keep for your dentist at home.
Other options
Alternatives to implants
Depending on your teeth and jawbone, your dentist may discuss bridges, crowns, dentures or root canal treatment instead. Not every gap needs an implant: several missing teeth can sometimes be replaced by a bridge supported by fewer implants.
After treatment
Living with implants
Once treatment is complete, most patients can eat normally again. Some discomfort in the days after surgery is common, and your dentist will advise on pain relief. How long implants last depends on your general health, how well you care for your teeth and gums, and regular check-ups with your own dentist.
With your treatment
What is included
- Online consultation with a dentist to prepare your treatment
- Panoramic X-ray
- Volumetric (3D) tomography
- Transfers between the airport, clinic and hotel
- Temporary crowns for the duration of your treatment
- Hotel accommodation with a full package
Questions
Dental implant FAQ
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, so the area is numb during treatment. General anaesthesia is also available when your dentist recommends it. Some discomfort and swelling in the days afterwards is common; your dentist will explain how to manage it.
It depends on how many implants you need, your bone and the type of teeth fitted. After your free online consultation you receive a written, itemised plan before you decide anything.
It varies from person to person. Your general health, how well you clean your teeth and gums, and regular check-ups all affect how long implants last.
Smoking increases the risk of complications. Tell your dentist during the consultation; they will explain the risks and whether implants are suitable for you.
Not always. Where several teeth are missing, a bridge supported by fewer implants may be possible. Your dentist plans this based on your scans.
