Dental Implants in Finchley: A Guide to Replacing Missing Teeth

Dental implants are the standard for replacing missing teeth and suit most adults in good health. Consider this option if you have one or more missing teeth from injury, decay, or gum disease. They are also a good alternative if you dislike removable dentures that slip or alter taste. Candidates should have healthy gums and enough jawbone, which we check with a 3D scan. Many patients choose implants to prevent the sunken look that bone loss can create after tooth loss. The Oral Health Foundation reports dental implants have a long-term success rate above 95 percent, making them a reliable and durable choice for your oral health.

The process takes place over several months. You begin with a 60-minute consultation at our Finchley practice, including a 3D CBCT scan to assess bone density and plan placement. The implant is placed in a separate procedure lasting 60 to 90 minutes under local anaesthetic, and a titanium post is inserted into the jawbone. You may feel pressure but not pain. Then comes a healing period of 3 to 6 months for osseointegration as the implant bonds with bone. After healing, you return for a final 30 to 45 minute visit to fit the permanent crown. Overall, most treatment timelines range from four to nine months.

Care after surgery is essential for a good outcome. For the first one to three days you may have some discomfort and swelling, manageable with ibuprofen and cold packs on your cheek. Eat soft foods like soup, yoghurt, and smoothies. In the first week avoid intense exercise and rinse with warm salt water after meals. Keep the surgical site clean but avoid brushing directly on it for a few days. Long term, look after an implant like a natural tooth with regular brushing, flossing, and hygiene appointments. Red flags requiring immediate contact: call our practice on 0203 488 0335 during office hours if you have a fever, increasing pain after day four, or any pus from the site.

While implants are often the best solution, other options exist. A fixed bridge is a false tooth held in place by crowns on adjacent teeth. It is usually quicker (2 to 3 weeks) and costs less at first, but it requires trimming healthy teeth. A removable partial denture is the most affordable option but is less stable, can affect speech, and must be removed for cleaning. It is often best as a temporary measure. During your consultation, Dr. Reddy will explain the pros and cons of each option for your situation.

A 55-year-old patient from Golders Green came to us with a molar missing for several years. A 3D scan showed some bone loss, which meant a standard bridge wasn’t ideal and would put stress on the neighbouring teeth. While a denture was the cheapest option, he wanted to eat steak again without worry. He chose an implant with a minor bone graft. The total treatment took seven months and cost around £3,000, and he now has a fixed tooth that feels completely natural.

We are transparent about pricing. A single dental implant at our private Finchley practice starts from £2,500. This covers the titanium implant post, the surgical placement, all necessary 3D scans and X-rays, and follow-up appointments to monitor healing. The final restoration, the crown, is priced separately depending on the material chosen. There are no hidden fees in our quotes. We accept private dental insurance from providers including Max Bupa, Denplan, and Cigna. Please bring your insurance details to your consultation so we can help clarify your coverage.

To make an informed choice about your health, ask the right questions whether you choose us or another practice in North London. Consider these points: Does the quoted price include the surgery, implant, and final crown? What are potential extra costs such as bone grafting or a sinus lift? What brand and type of implant do you use, and what is its clinical track record? What is your experience and success rate with implant procedures? How will you manage any pain or anxiety during the procedure? What aftercare and follow-up are included in the treatment plan?