Should you get dental implants? Find out here

Missing teeth affect how you eat, speak, and feel about your appearance. If you’ve been considering options to replace one or more teeth, implants might be the solution you’ve been looking for.

In this guide, we’ll explain what dental implants are, how they work, who they’re best for, and what you can expect from the process.

Why do so many people choose dental implants?

Dental implants have become one of the most trusted options for replacing missing teeth. They feel secure, work like natural teeth, and last longer than removable options. Instead of sitting on top of the gums like a denture, an implant is placed into the jawbone to act like the root of a real tooth.

This type of replacement restores how your mouth works helping you feel comfortable again. For most people, it’s the closest they’ve felt to having their real teeth again.

How do implants work?

The process is usually completed in stages:

1. Assessment and planning – We carry out scans and checks to make sure your mouth is healthy, and your jawbone is strong enough.

2. Implant placement – The titanium implant is placed into the bone under local anaesthetic.

3. Healing time – Over the next few months, the implant fuses with the bone to create a strong base.

4. Final restoration – Once healed, we fit a crown, bridge, or denture to the implant, completing your smile.

The result is a secure, long-lasting replacement that looks and functions like a natural tooth.

Who are dental implants suitable for?

Dental implants suit a wide range of patients. They may be a good choice if:

• You’ve lost one or more teeth

• You don’t want a removable denture

• You have healthy gums and bone (or can build enough bone through grafting)

• You want a fixed, long-term solution

At Windmill Hill Smiles, we carefully assess your needs and oral health to decide if implants are right for you. If not, we’ll guide you through alternatives that suit your situation.

Are dental implants better than dentures or bridges?

Many patients ask us how dental implants compare to dentures or bridges. Implants are fixed in place, which means they don’t move or affect speech. They also don’t rely on nearby teeth for support, unlike bridges, which often require those teeth to be filed down. Dentures can become loose over time, especially if the jawbone changes. Implants, on the other hand, help preserve the bone and offer long-term stability. While all options have their place, implants are often preferred for their comfort, durability, and natural feel.

What if I’ve been missing teeth for years?

Even if you’ve been missing teeth for years, you may still be a good candidate for dental implants. In some cases, the jawbone may have shrunk or weakened, but there are solutions. We can assess the bone using a digital scan and, if needed, explore treatments like bone grafting to rebuild a suitable foundation. Many long-term denture wearers switch to implants and tell us it feels like getting part of their confidence back. We’ll walk you through practical options based on your goals, health, and budget.

How much do implants cost?

Costs can vary depending on how many teeth need replacing and whether any additional treatments like bone grafting or scans are required. At Windmill Hill Smiles, we’ll give you a clear, tailored cost breakdown after your consultation. We’re always happy to explain what’s involved and talk through payment options if helpful. Our goal is to make long-term dental health a manageable investment for you.

Yes, modern dental implants are carefully matched in shape and colour to your natural teeth. The visible part the crown is custom-made to blend in with the rest of your smile. Most patients say their implant feels like a natural part of their smile not something they think about day to day. We’ll work with skilled dental labs to ensure your implant looks and feels right for you.

Dental implants support oral health and restore function while replacing missing teeth.

• Confidence: They look and feel like natural teeth, helping you feel confident when you eat, speak, or smile.

• Function: You can bite and chew with confidence. There’s no slipping like with dentures.

• Health: Implants help keep the jawbone stimulated and prevent bone loss. They also don’t require filing down nearby teeth, like bridges do.

• Longevity: With proper care, implants can last for decades.

Is the procedure painful?

Most patients are surprised at how straightforward the procedure is. The placement is done under local anaesthetic, and many people say it feels like having a filling. Mild discomfort afterward is normal, but this can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.

We guide you through each stage and stay available before, during, and after treatment.

How long do they last?

Dental implants are one of the most durable tooth replacement options available. With regular check-ups, good brushing and flossing habits, and a healthy lifestyle, they can last 20 years or more. In many cases, they last a lifetime.

Can I get implants if I have gum disease?

Gum health plays a big role in implant success. If you have gum disease, we’ll need to treat and stabilise it before placing any implants. In many cases, once your gums are healthy, you can still be a suitable candidate. If bone loss has occurred due to long-term gum issues, additional treatments like bone grafting may be required. During your consultation, we assess your gum health and plan appropriate next steps.

Dental implants have a long-standing safety record when placed by experienced clinicians. As with any treatment, we’ll make sure you’re fully informed and comfortable before going ahead.

Our team uses digital tools and high-quality materials to ensure accuracy and longevity in every treatment.

What should I expect after treatment?

After the procedure, most people return to normal routines within a day or two. There may be minor swelling or tenderness, but this usually settles quickly. We’ll provide clear aftercare guidance and arrange follow-ups to check your healing.

Once everything has healed, you can eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

Thinking about dental implants?

Dental implants help restore everyday comfort and function so you can eat, speak, and smile without worry.

Our Bristol team will talk you through what’s possible and help you decide if implants suit your needs. You’ll have our full support from your first appointment to your results with every question answered along the way.

Take the first step toward lasting dental confidence. Book a consultation today or speak to us about your dental health goals.