Caring For Your Dental Implant
Just like natural teeth, dental implants require consistent care to ensure they remain healthy, functional, and long-lasting. Plaque can build up on and around implants just as it can on natural teeth, which means daily cleaning is essential to prevent gum inflammation, infection, or bone loss.
Your implant care routine should include:
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Brushing and flossing daily – Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to gently clean around the implant, and floss carefully to remove plaque between teeth and along the gumline.
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Specialised cleaning tools – Your dentist or hygienist may recommend tools such as interdental brushes, water flossers, or implant-specific cleaning aids to reach areas regular brushing might miss.
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Professional maintenance – Schedule professional cleanings to remove any hardened plaque (tartar) and check that your implant, prosthesis, and surrounding gums are healthy.
Regular follow-up visits are key to long-term success. We recommend review appointments at 1, 3, and 5 years after placement, and then as advised, to assess gum health and monitor the bone around your implant. If changes are detected early, they can often be treated quickly to protect the implant.
Dental Implants
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as a replacement root. Once the implant has integrated with the bone, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached, completing your smile.
Benefits Of Dental Implants
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Look, feel and function like natural teeth.
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Improve chewing and speech.
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Prevent bone loss and preserve facial structure.
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Do not rely on neighbouring teeth for support.
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Provide a long-lasting solution when cared for properly.
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Dental Implants are one of the most reliable and natural looking ways to replace missing teeth. They restore function, improve appearance and protect long-term oral health. At Capital Oral & Facial Surgery, our specialists use advanced techniques to ensure your treatment is precise, comfortable and tailored to your needs.
What Does Implant Surgery Involve?
The exact procedure for dental implant placement is personalised to your needs, oral health, and jaw structure. It can be as straightforward as a single implant placed under local anaesthetic, or as complex as multiple implants and bone grafting performed under general anaesthesia. Your treatment will typically involve:
Your Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon will take time to understand your dental and medical history, discuss your goals, and perform a thorough examination.
Additional diagnostic tools such as x-rays and 3D imaging are used to assess your bone quality and map out the most accurate placement of your implant.
A personalised treatment plan is then created outlining the steps, timeline and any additional procedures you may need (such as bone grafting).
The implant placement is a minor surgical procedure performed under local anaesthesia, with sedation options available if you prefer extra comfort.
A small opening is made in the gum, and the titanium implant is carefully positioned into the jawbone. Our surgeons use precision techniques to ensure the implant is placed securely and with minimal disruption to surrounding tissue. Patients can go home the same day with only mild swelling or discomfort, which typically settles within a few days.
After placement, the implant undergoes a vital healing process known as osseointegration, where the bone naturally fuses with the titanium surface. This creates a stable foundation for your new tooth, much like a natural root.
Healing times vary depending on individual factors, but usually takes 3 months. During this period, temporary teeth may be provided so you can maintain your smile and function while healing.
An implant torque test is a simple procedure to check how securely the implant has been placed in your jawbone. After the implant is positioned, a small instrument applies controlled rotational force (torque or ultrasound) to the implant. This allows the surgeon to measure its stability, ensure the implant is firmly anchored in the bone, and helps determine if the implant can safely support a crown, bridge, or denture immediately or if additional healing time is needed. It is an important step in ensuring your implant has the best chance for long-term success.
Once the implant has fully integrated, your dentist will attach the final restoration—this may be a crown, bridge, or denture, depending on your treatment plan. The restoration is designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth in both appearance and function. The end result is a durable, natural-looking tooth replacement that feels comfortable and allows you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Risks & Possible Complications
While dental implants have a success rate of over 90% at 10+ years, all surgical procedures carry some risk. Possible complications include:
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Pain or swelling near the surgical site.
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Implant failure to bond with the bone.
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Infection or gum inflammation.
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Nerve injury (numbness, tingling, or altered sensation).
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Loosening or fracture of the prosthesis.
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Bone loss or poor healing.
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Rare but serious complications such as sinus perforation or jaw fracture.
Your surgeon will explain the specific risks and benefits relevant to your health and treatment plan, and we take every precaution to minimise complications.
Why Choose Capital Oral & Facial Surgery For Your Dental Implant Surgery?
Expertise You Can Trust
Our Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons have specialist training and extensive experience, delivering precise, safe, and personalised treatment.
Advanced Technology
State-of-the-art 3D imaging and computer-assisted planning ensure accurate implant placement and optimal results.
Comfort & Safety
Procedures are performed with gentle techniques under local anaesthesia, with sedation available for added relaxation.
Collaborative Care
We work closely with your dentist and healthcare team for seamless, coordinated treatment.
Patient-Focused Approach
From consultation to follow-up, we provide personalised guidance and support to help you achieve a confident, healthy smile.
If you’re considering dental implants, contact our friendly reception team to schedule a consultation. We’ll guide you through your options and help you achieve a confident, lasting smile.