How Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants are widely regarded as the most reliable and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. But how do they actually work? What’s happening beneath the surface that makes them so successful? Considering treatment? Visit our dedicated page on Dental Implants in Birmingham or speak to an experienced Oldbury dentist today.

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a small, screw-like post—usually made of titanium—that serves as a replacement tooth root. It is surgically embedded into your jawbone and forms the foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture.

A typical implant consists of 3 main components:

Implant Post

The titanium or zirconia root that integrates with your bone.

Abutment

The connector between the post and the prosthetic tooth.

Crown/Bridge/Denture

The visible restoration that matches your natural teeth.

Once the implant is in place, your body begins a process called osseointegration, where the bone fuses with the implant.

How Dental Implants Work: Step-by-Step Process

Here’s a breakdown of how implants function and the stages involved in achieving a natural-looking, permanent replacement tooth:

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Digital Imaging

We begin with a comprehensive assessment that includes:

Oral examination
3D CBCT scans to evaluate bone density
Medical history review

Book your assessment with our Oldbury dentist team to determine if you're a candidate for implants.

Step 2: Implant Placement Surgery

The implant post is surgically inserted into the jawbone under local anaesthesia or sedation. This is a minimally invasive procedure that typically takes 1–2 hours per implant.

A small incision is made in the gum
The implant is precisely positioned in the bone
The gum is stitched over or around the implant

Step 3: Osseointegration (Bone Fusion)

Over the next 3–6 months, the implant bonds with the bone in a process called osseointegration. This is what gives implants their unmatched strength and stability. During this period, a temporary crown may be placed to maintain aesthetics.

Step 4: Abutment Placement

Once osseointegration is complete:

The gum is re-opened
A titanium or zirconia abutment is attached to the implant
The gum is allowed to heal around the abutment for 1–2 weeks

Step 5: Final Crown or Prosthetic Fitting

The final stage involves attaching a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture that matches your natural teeth in:

Shape
Colour
Size
Bite alignment

At Oldbury Smile Spa, we ensure the result is both functional and beautiful.

How Do Dental Implants Stay in Place?

Dental implants are successful because they integrate with the jawbone, rather than sitting on top like dentures. The titanium post encourages bone cells to grow around it, securing it like a natural tooth root.

This prevents:

Bone deterioration (common with missing teeth)

Shifting of neighbouring teeth

Facial sagging caused by jawbone loss

Why Are Implants So Durable?

Titanium is biocompatible and used in medical procedures worldwide
Once integrated, the implant becomes part of your bone structure
Properly maintained implants can last 25 years or more

Benefits of Dental Implants

Benefit	Why It Matters
Natural appearance	Matches the look and feel of real teeth
Stability	No slipping or movement while eating or speaking
Long-term solution	Lasts decades with proper care
Bone preservation	Prevents jawbone shrinkage and facial collapse
No impact on other teeth	Unlike bridges, adjacent teeth remain untouched

Who Can Get Dental Implants?

Most adults are eligible if they:

A consultation with our Oldbury dentist team will confirm your eligibility.

Final Thoughts

Dental implants are more than just replacement teeth—they’re a restoration of function, confidence and quality of life. By understanding how they work, you can make informed choices that lead to long-lasting oral health.

At Oldbury Smile Spa, we use advanced diagnostics, precise planning and proven techniques to deliver exceptional implant results—customised to your needs.

Ready to restore your smile? Learn more on our Dental Implants Birmingham page or get in touch with our Oldbury dentist team today.