The length of your dental implant treatment will depend on several factors, including the number of implants needed, the condition of your jawbone, and whether any additional procedures (such as bone grafting or tooth extractions) are required. In general, the process can be divided into three main stages:

1. Initial consultation and planning

During your first visit to our practice, Dr Vijay Bhargava will assess your oral health, take x-rays and impressions of your teeth, and discuss your treatment options. Using his clinical expertise and dental imaging, either taken at Ridgway Dental, Parkside Hospital in Wimbledon, or CT Dent in Central London, Dr Bhargava will provide a more accurate estimation of the treatment timeline. This stage typically takes 1-2 appointments.

2. Implant placement surgery

Once your treatment plan is finalised, you’ll undergo surgery to place the dental implants into your jawbone. This procedure is usually completed in a single appointment, which can take anywhere from 1-6 hours, depending on the number of implants being placed and the complexity of your case.

3. Healing and restoration

After the implant surgery, you’ll need to allow time for the implants to fuse with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This healing period typically takes 3-6 months, during which you may wear a temporary prosthesis. Once the implants have fully integrated, you’ll return to have your custom-made permanent replacement teeth (crowns, bridges, or dentures) attached to the implants. This final stage usually requires 2-3 appointments spread over a few weeks.

In total, the entire dental implant treatment process usually takes between six weeks to six months, depending on the health of your gums and bone. However, if you require bone grafting or other preparatory procedures, the timeline may be extended. Dr Vijay Bhargava will provide you with a personalised treatment plan and a more accurate estimate of how long your specific case will take during your initial consultation.

At Ridgway Dental in Wimbledon village, most implant procedures are carried out under the same local anaesthetic as you would have for a filling, which most of our patients find comfortable. If you wish, we also offer sedation to help you feel more relaxed during the treatment.

After your dental implant procedure, it is normal to experience some minor bruising and swelling. However, over-the-counter pain killers are usually sufficient to manage any discomfort. We pride ourselves on our exceptional customer service, and our team will always be contactable after the procedure to answer any questions you may have or to see you at the practice if you encounter any problems.

If you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or other concerning symptoms following your dental implant surgery, please contact us immediately for advice and treatment.

Yes, once the local anaesthetic has worn off after your dental implant procedure you should be able to eat and drink normally. However, please keep in mind that the implant area may feel a little sore.

To ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications, it’s essential to follow your post-operative instructions carefully:

The first 24-48 hours after your implant surgery:

• Stick to soft, cool foods like yoghurt, smoothies, and pudding
• Avoid hot, spicy, crunchy, or chewy foods that could irritate the surgical site
• Do not use a straw, as the suction can dislodge the blood clot and delay healing

First 1-2 weeks:

• Gradually incorporate semi-soft foods, such as scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, and soft-cooked vegetables
• Continue to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could damage the implant or surrounding tissues
• Chew on the opposite side of your mouth from the implant site

As your mouth heals, you’ll be able to return to your normal diet. However, it’s crucial to maintain good oral hygiene and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure the long-term success of your dental implants.

At Ridgway Dental in Wimbledon, the cost of a dental implant is dependent on the amount and quality of bone that you have. If everything is healthy, the cost will be approximately £2,500 per implant.

However, the total cost of your dental implant treatment may vary based on several factors, such as:

• The number of implants needed
• The type of replacement teeth (crowns, bridges, or dentures) being attached to the implants
• Whether any additional procedures, such as bone grafting or sinus lifts, are required

During your initial consultation, Dr Bhargava will provide a personalised treatment plan and a detailed breakdown of the costs involved. It’s important to note that dental implants are typically not covered by the NHS, except in rare cases where there is a medical need for the treatment. Most patients will need to pay for implants privately. However, we offer financing options and payment plans to help make the treatment more affordable.

If you’re considering dental implants, The Association of Dental Implantology (UK) provides a wealth of information on dental implants, and the following link directs you to the section of their site that offers answers to frequently asked patient questions:

Association of Dental Implantology – Patient FAQs

If you would prefer to speak to us directly to have your questions answered, please contact Ridgway Dental in Wimbledon village for a dental implant consultation. Dr Vijay Bhargava and our experienced team are dedicated to providing personalised care and guiding you through every step of the dental implant process.

During your consultation, we will assess your oral health, discuss your treatment options, and provide a customised treatment plan tailored to your unique needs and goals. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile with dental implants at our state-of-the-art Wimbledon practice.

Dental implants are a modern, long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. An implant consists of three main components:

1. A titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root
2. An abutment that connects the implant post to the replacement tooth
3. A custom-made crown, bridge, or denture that is attached to the abutment to replace the visible portion of the missing tooth or teeth

At Ridgway Dental, we use advanced dental implant techniques to ensure optimal results. The implant post is made of biocompatible titanium, which allows it to fuse with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This creates a strong, stable foundation for the replacement teeth, mimicking the function of natural tooth roots.

Once the implant has fully integrated with the bone (which typically takes 3-6 months), Dr Bhargava will attach the abutment and custom-made restoration. The result is a natural-looking, fully functional replacement tooth or teeth that can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.

Dental implants can be an excellent solution for most adults who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, decay, or gum disease. However, to be a good candidate for implants, you should meet the following criteria:

• Have sufficient healthy jawbone to support the implants, or be able to undergo bone grafting to improve bone density
• Have healthy gums free from periodontal disease
• Be committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups
• Be in good overall health, as certain medical conditions or medications can interfere with implant success
• Be a non-smoker or willing to quit, as smoking can slow healing and increase the risk of implant failure

At Ridgway Dental, we will conduct a thorough examination and review your medical history to determine if dental implants are the right choice for you. In some cases, alternative treatments such as bridges or dentures may be recommended.

Dental implants offer several key advantages over traditional tooth replacement options like bridges and dentures:

1. Improved functionality: Implants function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
2. Preserved jawbone health: Unlike bridges and dentures, implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining facial structure.
3. Long-lasting results: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective long-term investment.
4. Enhanced comfort: Implants eliminate the discomfort and slippage often associated with dentures, as they are securely anchored to the jawbone.
5. Natural appearance: Custom-made implant restorations are designed to match your natural teeth, providing a seamless, attractive smile.
6. Easy maintenance: Implants can be cared for just like natural teeth, with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.
7. Versatility: Implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even a full arch, making them a flexible solution for various needs.

Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve optimal oral health and a beautiful smile. If you’re considering dental implants, we invite you to schedule a consultation to discuss your options and learn more about the benefits of this advanced tooth replacement solution.

One of the most significant advantages of dental implants is their longevity. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a long-term investment in your oral health and quality of life.

The titanium implant post that is surgically placed into the jawbone is designed to fuse with the bone through osseointegration, creating a strong, stable foundation for the replacement teeth. This process ensures that the implant becomes a permanent part of your jaw, just like a natural tooth root.

The lifespan of the custom-made restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) attached to the implant can vary depending on factors such as:

• The material used (e.g., porcelain, zirconia)
• Your oral hygiene habits
• Your diet and lifestyle habits (e.g., grinding teeth, smoking)
• The location of the implant in your mouth and the forces it is subjected to

On average, implant-supported restorations can last 10-15 years or more before needing to be replaced due to wear or damage. However, with excellent oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups at Ridgway Dental , many patients enjoy their implant-supported restorations for even longer.

To maximise the longevity of your dental implants, we recommend:

• Brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste
• Flossing daily to remove plaque and debris between teeth and implants
• Using an interdental brush or water flosser to clean hard-to-reach areas around implants
• Attending regular dental check-ups and cleanings at our Wimbledon practice
• Avoiding habits that can damage implants, such as smoking, chewing on hard objects, or grinding your teeth (if necessary, we can provide a custom nightguard)

By following these guidelines you can enjoy the long-lasting benefits of dental implants and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.

Dental implants are a highly successful and predictable tooth replacement option, with success rates consistently exceeding 95% in healthy patients. At Ridgway Dental, we use the latest techniques and technologies to ensure optimal outcomes for our implant patients.

Several factors contribute to the high success rates of dental implants:

1. Biocompatible materials: The titanium used in implant posts is well-tolerated by the body and encourages osseointegration, the process by which the implant fuses with the jawbone.
2. Skilled implant dentists: Experienced professionals like Dr Bhargava have the training and expertise to place implants precisely and create custom restorations that function and look like natural teeth.
3. Thorough patient screening: Selecting good candidates for implants, such as those with adequate bone density and good overall health, increases the likelihood of success.
4. Advanced imaging and planning: The use of 3D imaging (e.g., CT scans) and implant planning software helps ensure accurate implant placement and reduces the risk of complications.
5. Patient compliance: Patients who follow post-operative instructions, maintain good oral hygiene, and attend regular check-ups at Ridgway Dental contribute to the long-term success of their implants.

While dental implants have a high success rate, it’s essential to note that certain factors can increase the risk of implant failure, such as:

• Smoking or tobacco use
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Periodontal disease
• Insufficient bone density (though this can often be addressed with bone grafting prior to implant placement)
• Certain medications that affect bone metabolism or the immune system

During your initial consultation at our Wimbledon practice, Dr Vijay Bhargava will carefully assess your oral health, medical history, and lifestyle factors to determine if dental implants are the right choice for you. By addressing any potential risk factors and creating a personalised treatment plan, we can help ensure the success and longevity of your implant-supported restorations.

When replacing missing teeth, patients often consider two popular options: dental implants and dental bridges. While both solutions can effectively restore the function and appearance of your smile, they differ in several key aspects:

Dental implants:

• Consist of a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone, an abutment, and a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture
• Replace the entire tooth structure, including the root, providing stimulation to the jawbone and preventing bone loss
• Are self-supporting and do not rely on adjacent teeth for stability
• Require a surgical procedure and a healing period of 3-6 months for osseointegration
• Can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance
• May be more expensive initially but can be a cost-effective long-term solution

Dental bridges:

• Consist of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) supported by dental crowns on either side of the gap
• Replace only the visible portion of the missing teeth, not the roots
• Rely on the adjacent healthy teeth for support, requiring them to be filed down to accommodate the crowns
• Do not require surgery and can be completed in a few dental visits
• Typically last 5-15 years before needing replacement
• May be less expensive initially but may need to be replaced more frequently over time

At Ridgway Dental, we tend to recommend dental implants for most patients due to their benefits, such as:

• Preserving jawbone health and facial structure
• Providing a more natural look, feel, and function
• Offering a long-lasting solution that can last a lifetime with proper care
• Not compromising the health of adjacent teeth

However, dental bridges may be a suitable alternative for patients who:

• Have insufficient jawbone density for implants and cannot undergo bone grafting
• Have health conditions that preclude them from undergoing implant surgery
• Need a more affordable short-term solution

During your consultation, we’ll assess your individual needs, preferences, and oral health to help you decide whether dental implants or bridges are the best option for you.

Proper care and maintenance are essential for the long-term success and longevity of your dental implants. We’ll provide you with comprehensive guidance on how to care for your implants to ensure optimal oral health.

Caring for dental implants is similar to maintaining natural teeth, with a few additional considerations:

Daily oral hygiene:

• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, paying extra attention to the gum line and the area around the implant
• Floss daily to remove plaque and debris between teeth and implants, using a special implant floss or an interdental brush
• Use an oral irrigator or water flosser to clean hard-to-reach areas around the implants

Regular dental check-ups:

• Visit us for regular check-ups and professional cleanings as recommended (typically every 3-6 months)
• These appointments allow our team to monitor the health of your implants, detect any potential issues early, and provide thorough cleanings to maintain the integrity of your implants and restorations

Avoiding harmful habits:

• Quit smoking or using tobacco products, as these habits can increase the risk of implant failure and other oral health problems
• Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice, pen caps, or fingernails, which can damage your implant restorations
• If you grind your teeth (bruxism), wear a custom nightguard to protect your implants and natural teeth from excessive wear and pressure

Eating a balanced diet:

• Consume a variety of nutrient-rich foods to support healthy gums and jawbone, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and calcium-rich dairy products
• Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages that can contribute to tooth decay and gum disease

By following these care instructions, you can help ensure the long-term success of your dental implants and enjoy a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come. If you have any questions or concerns about caring for your implants, don’t hesitate to contact us at any time.

While dental implant surgery is generally safe and successful, as with any surgical procedure, there are certain risks and potential complications that patients should be aware of. We take every precaution to minimise these risks and ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Some of the potential risks and complications associated with dental implant surgery include:

• Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection at the implant site. However, this risk can be minimised by following proper post-operative care instructions and maintaining good oral hygiene.
• Implant failure: In rare cases, the implant may fail to fuse with the jawbone (osseointegration) or become loose over time. Factors that can contribute to implant failure include smoking, certain medical conditions, and inadequate bone density.
• Nerve damage: In very rare instances, the implant may be placed too close to a nerve, causing temporary or permanent numbness, tingling, or pain in the lips, gums, or chin.
• Sinus complications: When placing implants in the upper jaw, there is a small risk of the implant extending into the sinus cavity, which may require additional surgical intervention.
• Allergic reaction: Some patients may experience an allergic reaction to the titanium used in the implant, although this is extremely rare.
• Gum recession: In some cases, the gum tissue around the implant may recede over time, exposing the implant post and potentially compromising the implant’s stability and appearance.

These risks are relatively rare, and the vast majority of dental implant procedures are completed without complications. We take the following steps to minimise the risk of complications:

• Thorough patient screening and evaluation to ensure good candidates for implant surgery
• Use of advanced imaging techniques (e.g., CT scans) to plan implant placement and avoid critical structures like nerves and sinuses
• Strict adherence to sterile surgical protocols to minimize the risk of infection
• Providing comprehensive post-operative care instructions and follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns promptly

If you experience any unusual symptoms or concerns following your dental implant surgery, such as severe pain, swelling, or prolonged bleeding, contact us immediately for guidance and treatment. Our team is here to work closely with you and minimise the risks associated with dental implant surgery and ensure the long-term success of your implant-supported restorations.

One of the primary advantages of dental implants is their ability to closely mimic the appearance, feel, and function of natural teeth. We use the latest materials and techniques to create implant-supported restorations that blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, providing a natural-looking and comfortable solution to tooth loss.

Natural appearance:

• Custom-made crowns, bridges, or dentures are designed to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth
• High-quality materials like porcelain and zirconia are used to create restorations that mimic the translucency and sheen of natural tooth enamel
• Dr Bhargava works closely with skilled dental technicians to ensure that your implant restorations blend harmoniously with your smile

Natural feel and function:

• Dental implants are anchored securely in the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for the replacement teeth
• Unlike traditional dentures, implant-supported restorations do not slip or shift, allowing you to speak, eat, and smile with confidence
• Implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to maintain bone density and facial structure, which contributes to a more natural feel
• With implant-supported restorations, you can enjoy a wide variety of foods without discomfort or restrictions

customised treatment planning:

• We take a personalised approach to implant dentistry, tailoring treatment plans to each patient’s unique needs and goals
• Advanced imaging technologies like 3D CT scans are used to plan implant placement and ensure optimal aesthetics and function
• Factors such as your facial structure, bite alignment, and gum contours are also taken into account to create restorations that look and feel like a natural extension of your smile

While dental implants provide a highly natural-looking and functional solution to tooth loss, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Some patients may require additional procedures, such as bone grafting or gum contouring, to achieve the best possible aesthetic and functional outcomes. Our implantologist will discuss your individual case in detail during your consultation, providing a clear understanding of what you can expect from your implant treatment.

With our highly-experienced team here at Ridgway Dental, you can trust that your dental implants will be crafted to look, feel, and function as closely as possible to your natural teeth as possible, allowing you to enjoy a confident, healthy, and beautiful smile.

We’ll provide you with detailed post-operative care instructions and guidance to help you manage your recovery and achieve the best possible outcomes.

Immediate post-surgery:

• Expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated area, which can be managed with pain medication, cold compresses, and rest
• Bite gently on the gauze packs provided to control bleeding and promote clot formation
• Avoid strenuous activities, smoking, and drinking through straws for the first 24-48 hours to prevent dislodging the blood clot and disturbing the surgical site

First week:

• Swelling and discomfort should gradually subside within a few days to a week
• Stick to a soft food diet, chew on the opposite side of your mouth, and avoid hot or spicy foods that could irritate the surgical site
• Maintain good oral hygiene by gently brushing around the implant site and rinsing with a prescribed antimicrobial mouthwash
• Attend your scheduled follow-up appointments so we can monitor your healing progress

Osseointegration phase:

• Over the next 3-6 months, the implant will gradually fuse with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration
• During this time, you may wear a temporary restoration to maintain aesthetics and function
• Continue to practice good oral hygiene, attend regular check-ups, and follow any additional instructions provided by your implantologist

Final restoration:

• Once osseointegration is complete, you’ll return for the placement of your custom-made final restoration (crown, bridge, or denture)
• Your doctor will ensure that your restoration fits comfortably, functions properly, and blends seamlessly with your natural teeth
• You’ll receive guidance on how to care for your implant-supported restoration and maintain optimal oral health

Throughout the recovery process, it’s important to attend your scheduled follow-up appointments, follow your dentist’s instructions closely and contact us promptly if you experience any unusual symptoms or concerns, such as severe pain, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection. This way, you can help ensure a smooth recovery and the long-term success of your dental implants.

Each patient’s recovery experience may vary depending on factors such as the number of implants placed, the complexity of the surgery, and individual healing rates. You will be provided with a personalised recovery timeline and guidance tailored to your specific case, ensuring that you have the support and information you need to achieve a successful outcome.

The success of dental implants depends on a foundation of good oral health, and the presence of gum disease or other dental issues can potentially complicate the implant process. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t receive dental implants. Our implant dentist will thoroughly assess your oral health and develop a customised treatment plan to address any underlying issues before proceeding with implant surgery.

Gum disease (periodontal disease):

• Gum disease is a serious infection that can damage the soft tissue and bone supporting your teeth, potentially compromising the success of dental implants
• If you have active gum disease, we’ll recommend a course of periodontal treatment to restore your gum health before placing implants
• Treatment may include scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), antibiotics, or surgical intervention in more advanced cases
• Once your gum disease is under control, your doctor will re-evaluate your candidacy for dental implants

Insufficient bone density:

• Dental implants require a sufficient volume and density of jawbone to provide a stable foundation for the implant post
• If you have experienced bone loss due to missing teeth, gum disease, or other factors, you may require a bone grafting procedure to rebuild the necessary bone structure
• Out implantologist will use advanced imaging techniques like CT scans to assess your bone density and determine if bone grafting is necessary before implant placement

Tooth decay or failing restorations:

• If you have active tooth decay or failing dental restorations (e.g., fillings, crowns) near the proposed implant site, these issues will need to be addressed before implant surgery
• We will develop a comprehensive treatment plan to restore your oral health, which may include fillings, root canals, or extractions
• By ensuring a stable and healthy oral environment, we can help maximise the success and longevity of your dental implants

It’s important to note that while the presence of gum disease or other dental issues may delay the implant process, it doesn’t necessarily preclude you from receiving dental implants altogether. By working closely with our team, you can receive the necessary pre-implant treatments to restore your oral health and create a solid foundation for your implant-supported restorations.

During your initial consultation we’ll perform a thorough examination, review your medical and dental history, and discuss your treatment options in detail. Together, you’ll develop a personalised plan to address any underlying issues and achieve your goal of a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile with dental implants.