Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing tooth roots, providing a permanent foundation for fixed replacement teeth. At Pure Smiles in Fulham, we offer dental implants as the gold standard for tooth replacement — restoring function, appearance and confidence for patients across South West London.
A dental implant is not a single component. It is a three-part system that works together to replicate a natural tooth:
| Component | Material | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Implant post | Medical-grade titanium | Screwed into the jawbone to replace the tooth root |
| Abutment | Titanium or ceramic | Connects the implant post to the visible crown |
| Crown | Porcelain or zirconia | The visible part that looks and functions like a natural tooth |
The titanium post fuses with your jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This creates a bond as strong as a natural tooth root, which is why dental implants can last 20 years or longer with proper care. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants preserve jawbone density and do not affect neighbouring healthy teeth. learn more
Most adults with one or more missing teeth are suitable candidates for dental implants in Fulham. The key requirement is sufficient jawbone density to support the titanium post, along with healthy gums and good general health.
Dental implants are not limited to replacing a single tooth. They are a versatile solution that can replace any number of teeth:
A single implant and crown replaces one missing tooth without affecting the teeth on either side. This is the preferred option when the neighbouring teeth are healthy and do not need crowns themselves.
When several adjacent teeth are missing, an implant-supported bridge can replace three or more teeth using just two implant posts. This avoids the need for a separate implant for each missing tooth, reducing cost and treatment time.
For patients missing all teeth in the upper or lower jaw, a full arch of fixed teeth can be supported by as few as four to six implants. This approach — sometimes called All-on-4 — provides a permanent, non-removable set of teeth that look and function like natural teeth. It is a life-changing alternative to full dentures.
| Factor | Impact on Suitability |
|---|---|
| Insufficient jawbone density | Bone grafting may be needed before implant placement |
| Uncontrolled diabetes | Can slow healing; must be managed before treatment |
| Heavy smoking | Increases implant failure risk; cessation recommended |
| Gum disease | Must be treated and stabilised first |
| Certain medications (bisphosphonates) | Require specialist assessment |
| Age | Implants are suitable once jaw growth is complete (typically 18+) |
During your consultation at Pure Smiles, Dr Ayzaaz Akram (BDS Liverpool 1995, GDC 70996) will assess your individual suitability using CBCT 3D scanning and a thorough clinical examination. learn more
The dental implant process at Pure Smiles in Fulham typically takes three to six months from start to finish. This is not because the treatment is complicated — it is because the jawbone needs time to heal around the implant post before the final crown is fitted.
Your implant journey begins with a detailed consultation at either of our Fulham practices. We take a CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) scan, which produces a 3D image of your jawbone, nerves and sinuses. This allows Dr Akram to plan the exact position, angle and depth of each implant with millimetre precision.
We discuss your options, expected timeline and costs at this appointment. If bone grafting or gum treatment is needed first, we will explain this clearly before any commitment.
The implant post is placed under local anaesthetic. For anxious patients, sedation is also available at Pure Smiles. learn more
A small incision is made in the gum, and the titanium post is carefully positioned into the jawbone using a guided surgical protocol based on your CBCT scan. The gum is then closed with stitches. The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes per implant.
Most patients describe the discomfort as less than having a tooth extracted. You will leave the practice with a temporary tooth or healing cap in place.
Over the next eight to sixteen weeks, the titanium post fuses with the surrounding jawbone. This osseointegration phase is what gives dental implants their exceptional strength and stability. During this period, you attend check-up appointments at our SW6 practice so we can monitor healing.
Once osseointegration is confirmed, we attach the abutment to the implant post and take detailed impressions (or digital scans) of your mouth. These are sent to our dental laboratory, where your custom crown is fabricated to match the colour, shape and size of your natural teeth.
Your permanent crown is fitted and adjusted for a precise, comfortable bite. The result is a replacement tooth that looks, feels and functions like a natural tooth.
Patients in Fulham often ask how dental implants compare with other tooth replacement options. This table provides a direct comparison.
| Factor | Dental Implants | Dental Bridge | Dentures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | 20+ years (often a lifetime) | 10-15 years | 5-10 years |
| Jawbone preservation | Yes — stimulates bone growth | No — bone loss continues | No — accelerates bone loss |
| Adjacent teeth affected | No — standalone | Yes — neighbouring teeth filed down | Partial dentures clasp onto natural teeth |
| Stability | Fixed permanently in place | Fixed (cemented to adjacent teeth) | Removable; can slip or move |
| Chewing ability | Full natural biting force | Good, but limited by supporting teeth | Reduced (roughly 25-40% of natural force) |
| Appearance | Indistinguishable from natural teeth | Good cosmetic result | Can look natural but may show clasps |
| Maintenance | Brush and floss as normal | Requires floss threaders or superfloss | Daily removal, soaking and cleaning |
| Typical cost (per tooth) | Higher upfront | Moderate | Lower upfront, higher long-term |
| Treatment time | 3-6 months (including healing) | 2-3 weeks | 2-6 weeks |
Dental implants have a higher upfront cost, but they are the only option that preserves jawbone, does not damage adjacent teeth, and can last a lifetime. When measured over 20 years, implants are often the most cost-effective choice. learn more
Recovery after dental implant placement at Pure Smiles is straightforward. Here is what to expect:
Once healed and restored, dental implants require the same care as natural teeth:
With proper care, dental implants have a success rate above 95% over ten years. We monitor your implants at every routine check-up at our SW6 practices. learn more
Dental implant costs vary depending on the complexity of your case, the number of implants needed and whether additional procedures such as bone grafting are required.
| Factor | Impact on Cost |
|---|---|
| Number of implants | Single implant costs less than multiple or full arch |
| Bone grafting requirement | Adds to the overall treatment cost |
| Type of crown (porcelain vs zirconia) | Premium materials cost more |
| Sedation | Optional; adds a separate fee |
| Complexity (sinus lift, guided surgery) | More complex cases require additional planning |
Dental implants are not available on the NHS for most patients. They are a private treatment, and Pure Smiles offers flexible payment plans to help spread the cost.
While the upfront cost of a dental implant is higher than a bridge or denture, consider the total cost over time. A bridge typically needs replacing every 10-15 years. Dentures need relining, repairing and eventually replacing every 5-10 years. A well-maintained dental implant can last a lifetime — making it the most economical option over 20 or more years.
We provide a full written treatment plan with all costs before you commit to any treatment. There are no hidden fees. Contact Pure Smiles on 020 7736 6276 to book your implant consultation.
Pure Smiles is a family-run dental practice established in 2009, serving patients across Fulham, Chelsea, Parsons Green and the wider SW6 area. Here is why patients choose us for dental implants in South West London.
Dr Ayzaaz Akram (BDS Liverpool 1995, GDC 70996) has over 25 years of clinical experience and places dental implants regularly at both Pure Smiles locations. His approach combines meticulous planning with CBCT-guided surgery for predictable, long-lasting results.
Whether you are missing a single tooth or need a full arch replacement, Pure Smiles provides expert implant dentistry in a caring, unhurried environment. Book your consultation today by calling 020 7736 6276 or visiting either of our Fulham practices. learn more
Dental implant placement is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Most patients report that the discomfort afterwards is mild and manageable with over-the-counter painkillers. At Pure Smiles in Fulham, sedation is available for patients who feel anxious about the procedure. Post-operative soreness typically lasts three to five days.
Dental implants can last 20 years or more — and many last a lifetime — with proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. The titanium post itself does not decay or deteriorate. The crown on top may need replacing after 15-20 years due to normal wear, but this is a straightforward procedure.
Yes, in many cases. If your jawbone has lost density due to missing teeth or gum disease, bone grafting can rebuild the bone to a level that supports an implant. Dr Akram will assess your bone volume using a CBCT scan at your consultation and discuss whether grafting is needed.
Dental implants can replace a single tooth, several teeth or a complete arch. A single implant supports one crown. An implant-supported bridge typically uses two implants to replace three or more adjacent teeth. A full arch of teeth can be fixed onto four to six implants, eliminating the need for removable dentures entirely.
Care for dental implants the same way you care for natural teeth: brush twice daily, use interdental brushes or floss around the implant, and attend regular hygiene appointments at Pure Smiles. Avoid smoking, which increases the risk of implant complications. We check your implants at every routine appointment to ensure long-term success.
