Dental Implants in Larkfield, Kent
Dental implants are widely regarded as the best way to replace a missing tooth. They look, feel, and function just like natural teeth — and with proper care, they can last a lifetime. If you have one or more missing teeth and want a permanent, stable solution, implants are worth knowing about.
What is a dental implant?
The closest thing to a natural tooth
A dental implant is a small titanium post that is placed directly into the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. Once the implant has fused with the surrounding bone — a natural process called osseointegration — a custom-made crown is attached on top, completing the restoration.
The result is a replacement tooth that is fixed firmly in the jaw, doesn't move, doesn't need to be removed at night, and stimulates the jawbone in the same way a natural tooth root does — preventing the bone loss that occurs when teeth are missing.
Implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth, multiple missing teeth, or even a full arch of teeth (with implant-supported bridges or dentures). At Larkfield Dental Aesthetics, we carry out implant assessments and restorations in-house, with surgical placement carried out by an experienced implant dentist.
Am I suitable? →
Is it right for you?
Who is suitable for dental implants?
Most healthy adults with missing teeth are potential candidates. The key requirements are:
Sufficient jawbone density
Enough bone to support the implant — if bone has been lost, a graft may be needed first.
Healthy gums
Gum disease must be treated before implant placement can go ahead.
Good general health
Certain conditions and medications can affect healing — we'll take a full medical history.
Non-smoker
Or a willingness to stop during healing — smoking significantly impairs osseointegration.
Commitment to hygiene
Good oral hygiene and regular check-ups keep implants healthy for the long term.
A thorough assessment
We'll review X-rays or a CBCT scan at consultation to confirm implants are right for you.
We'll carry out a thorough assessment at your consultation — including a review of your X-rays or a CBCT scan if needed — to determine whether implants are suitable for you.
How it works
What does treatment involve?
Implant treatment is carried out in stages over several months — typically three to six months from start to finish, depending on the number of implants, whether bone grafting is needed, and how quickly you heal.
Consultation & planning
We assess your suitability, take X-rays or scans, and plan your treatment in detail.
Implant placement
The titanium implant is placed into the jawbone under local anaesthetic and the gum stitched over it.
Osseointegration
Over three to six months the implant fuses with the jawbone, with a temporary restoration if needed.
Abutment & crown
Once integrated, a small connector is attached and your custom-made permanent crown is fitted.
Each surgical appointment takes one to two hours. The fitting appointments are shorter. Most patients manage very well on over-the-counter pain relief in the days following placement.
Aftercare
Looking after your implants
Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime with proper care. Here's how to protect yours:
- ✓ Brush twice daily as you would natural teeth — plaque accumulates around implants just as it does on natural teeth.
- ✓ Clean around the implant daily using floss or an interdental brush.
- ✓ Use a water flosser if recommended by your hygienist — these are particularly effective around implants.
- ✓ Attend your hygienist appointments regularly — implants can develop peri-implantitis (similar to gum disease) if not kept clean.
- ✓ Attend your check-ups every six months — your dentist will check the stability and condition of the implant and crown.
- ✓ Don't smoke — smoking is associated with higher implant failure rates.
- ✓ If you grind your teeth, a nightguard is strongly recommended to protect both the crown and the implant.
Fees & finance
How much do dental implants cost?
Dental implants are an investment — but for many patients, the long-term value of a permanent, natural-feeling tooth replacement that requires no special maintenance makes them the most cost-effective solution over time.
The cost depends on the number of implants, whether bone grafting is needed, and the type of restoration placed on top (single crown, bridge, or implant-retained denture). We'll provide a detailed written treatment plan with all costs laid out clearly before you make any decisions.
Please see our Fees & Finance page or call us on 01732 521123 to book a consultation.
Restorative dentistry
Related treatments
Questions
Frequently asked
Does getting a dental implant hurt? +
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you won't feel pain during the placement. Many patients are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the experience is. Some soreness, swelling, and bruising in the days following surgery is normal and easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
How long do dental implants last? +
With good oral hygiene and regular dental care, the implant itself can last a lifetime. The crown placed on top may need replacing after 15–20 years due to normal wear, but the implant in the jawbone should remain stable indefinitely.
What happens if I don't replace a missing tooth? +
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area begins to shrink — a process called bone resorption — because there is no longer a root to stimulate it. Over time, this can affect neighbouring teeth, change your facial profile, and make future implant placement more difficult. Replacing a missing tooth sooner rather than later is always advisable.
Can I have an implant if I've lost bone in my jaw? +
Often yes, but it may require a bone grafting procedure first to build up the bone volume before the implant can be placed. We'll assess this at your consultation and let you know exactly what's needed.
Ready to find out more?
A permanent solution, built to last
Call us on 01732 521123 or email hello@larkfielddentalcare.co.uk — we'd love to help.