Dental implants

An implant is a small titanium screw placed into the jawbone where the tooth root used to be. It's placed under local anaesthetic, and the bone then grows onto its surface over roughly three to six months — that's the part that can't be rushed. Once it's stable, we take an impression and fit the crown.

Some cases need a bone graft first, or at the same time, where there isn't enough bone to hold the implant securely.

• The implant may not integrate. A small percentage fail to bond with the bone and have to be removed. The site can usually be regrafted and a second implant placed later, but that's more time and more cost.
• Smoking roughly doubles the risk of failure. It is the single biggest thing within your control, and it matters both before and during healing.
• Infection at the site during healing.
• Peri-implantitis — gum and bone inflammation around an established implant, driven by plaque, much like gum disease around a natural tooth. It can cost you the implant years later, which is why implants need cleaning and reviews for life.
• Nerve injury for lower implants, causing numbness or tingling of the lip or chin. We plan from a 3D scan specifically to avoid this, but the risk isn't zero.
• Sinus complications for upper back implants, where the implant or graft sits close to the sinus floor.
• Bone grafting may be needed, sometimes only apparent once we're operating.
• Mechanical problems over time — a loosening screw, a fractured component, or a chipped crown. Usually repairable.
• Gum recession or a visible metal edge, and a shape that doesn't perfectly match the neighbouring tooth. Aesthetics at the front are the hardest part of implant work.
• Medication affecting bone — some osteoporosis and cancer treatments raise the risk of poor healing in the jaw, so tell us about them even if you stopped years ago.
• Health fund cover is usually partial, and implant treatment is staged over months, so the cost arrives in stages too.

• A bridge — quicker and without surgery, but it involves cutting down the teeth either side.
• A denture — removable, and the least expensive option.
• Leaving the gap — reasonable for some back teeth, though neighbouring teeth may drift and the opposing tooth over-erupt.
• Referral to a specialist where the case is complex or the aesthetic demand is high.

• I understand implant treatment takes several months and several appointments.
• I understand implants can fail, that smoking substantially increases that risk, and that a failed implant means more treatment and more cost.
• I understand an implant needs cleaning and regular reviews for as long as I have it.
• I understand a bone graft may be needed, including where that only becomes clear during surgery.
• I have read the information above and had the chance to ask questions.
• I understand no dental treatment can be guaranteed.
• The costs have been explained to me, and I can ask for a written quote before treatment starts.
• My medical history is accurate and I will tell the practice about any changes before my appointment.
• I understand I can change my mind at any time before treatment starts.
• I understand my dentist will go through this with me and confirm my consent in person on the day.

This form records that you have read and understood the information above. It is not consent to proceed — your dentist confirms consent with you in person before treatment begins, and you can withdraw at any time.