Dental Implants in Leeds
A dental implant is a titanium post placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth, topped with a crown, bridge or denture. It is the closest thing to having your own tooth back. Twilight Dental plans and places implants at our clinic in Woodhouse, Leeds, with evening appointments seven days a week.
What an implant involves
- A planning stage with examination, X-rays and assessment of bone and gum health.
- Placement of the implant under local anaesthetic, usually a single appointment.
- A healing period while the bone integrates with the implant, typically three to six months.
- The final restoration — a crown, bridge or implant-retained denture.
- Excellent longevity where the gums are healthy, the bite is controlled and cleaning is good.
- Not for everyone — smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, active gum disease and insufficient bone all affect suitability.
What implants can replace
A single missing tooth
An implant and crown, without cutting down the healthy teeth either side as a bridge would.
Several missing teeth
Two or more implants supporting a fixed bridge.
A loose lower denture
Implants used to anchor the denture so it stops moving when you eat and speak.
A failing tooth
Planning the implant before extraction often gives a better result than deciding afterwards.
The process, step by step
- Consultation and assessment. Examination, X-rays, and a review of your general health, smoking status and gum condition.
- Preparation. Any gum disease is treated and the mouth stabilised first — implants placed into unhealthy gums fail.
- Placement. The implant is placed into the bone under local anaesthetic. Most people find it more comfortable than an extraction.
- Integration. Three to six months while bone bonds to the implant surface. A temporary tooth can usually be provided in the meantime.
- Restoration. Impressions or a scan, then the definitive crown, bridge or denture is fitted.
- Maintenance. Regular hygiene visits to keep the tissues around the implant healthy.
Are you a suitable candidate?
Implants need healthy gums, enough bone, and a commitment to cleaning. Smoking substantially increases the risk of failure, and we will be straight with you about that. Uncontrolled diabetes, active periodontal disease and certain medications, including bisphosphonates and denosumab, also need careful consideration. Where bone volume is inadequate, grafting may be possible, or a bridge or denture may be the more sensible choice. We would rather tell you an implant is the wrong treatment than place one that fails.
Looking after an implant
- Brush and clean around the implant daily, including between it and the neighbouring teeth.
- Attend regular hygiene appointments; peri-implantitis is the main cause of late implant loss and it is preventable.
- Do not smoke.
- Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth.
- Report any bleeding, soreness or looseness promptly rather than waiting for a check-up.
Dental implants — your questions answered
Does having an implant placed hurt?
The placement is done under local anaesthetic and most patients report less discomfort than they expected, often less than an extraction. Some tenderness for a few days afterwards is normal.
How long do implants last?
With healthy gums and good cleaning, implants can last decades. The crown on top may need replacing sooner than the implant itself.
How long is the whole process?
Usually three to six months from placement to final crown, longer if grafting is needed. You are not left with a visible gap in the meantime.
Can I have an implant if I smoke?
It is possible, but failure rates are significantly higher. We will discuss this openly and may recommend an alternative.
Is an implant better than a bridge?
Often, because it replaces the tooth without preparing the healthy teeth either side. A bridge can still be the better option in some situations, and we will explain which applies to you.
What does it cost?
Implant fees are set out on our price list, and you will get a written plan with the full cost before anything starts.
I have had a tooth out recently. Is it too late?
No. Bone does shrink over time after an extraction, so earlier is easier, but implants are routinely placed in healed sites years later.
Considering an implant?
Book a £24 consultation for an assessment, X-rays where needed and a written plan with costs. Call 0113 819 7865 or book online.
