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What Is the Difference Between a Bridge and an Implant?

What Is the Difference Between a Bridge and an Implant?

The main difference between a bridge and an implant is that a bridge replaces a missing tooth by anchoring to the neighbouring teeth, while an implant replaces the tooth root itself with a titanium post placed in the jawbone. Both are common, safe, and effective ways to replace missing teeth rather than serious procedures to fear, and the right choice depends on your bone health, budget, and long-term goals. Understanding how they differ makes the decision much easier. If you are comparing your options, the caring team at a trusted dental...

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Can I Get Dental Implants on the NHS?

Can I Get Dental Implants on the NHS?

In most cases, dental implants are not available on the NHS and are usually provided privately, because implants are generally considered a cosmetic rather than a clinically essential treatment. There are rare exceptions where implants may be funded on the NHS for specific medical reasons, such as after facial trauma or certain congenital conditions. So while the answer is usually no, it is not a serious problem, as affordable private options and alternatives exist. If you are exploring your choices, a helpful NHS dentist can explain what is...

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How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care, though the crown attached to an implant typically needs replacing after ten to fifteen years due to normal wear. Losing a tooth is a common concern, and choosing an implant is generally a safe, long-term solution rather than a serious risk when placed by a qualified professional. The titanium implant itself fuses with the jawbone and can remain stable for decades. If you are weighing your options, the caring team at a trusted dental clinic in Catford can explain what to expect and put any...

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What Is the Difference Between a Bridge and an Implant?

What Is the Difference Between a Bridge and an Implant?

The core difference is simple: an implant replaces the missing tooth root with a titanium post placed into the jawbone, while a bridge sits on top of the gum and is supported by the teeth on either side. Both are safe, well-established and entirely routine treatments, and neither is universally better. The right choice depends on the health of your neighbouring teeth, your bone volume and how long you want the restoration to last, all of which are assessed during a consultation for dental implants or fixed bridgework. Losing a single tooth is...

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Can I Get Dental Implants on the NHS?

Can I Get Dental Implants on the NHS?

Dental implants are available on the NHS only in limited, clinically necessary circumstances, such as tooth loss following mouth cancer surgery, significant facial trauma, or congenital conditions where teeth never developed. For the vast majority of people who have lost a tooth to decay, gum disease or an accident, implants are considered a private treatment. This is a longstanding funding rule rather than a reflection of clinical need, and your NHS dentist can explain how the criteria apply to your situation. It is worth being clear about...

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How Long Does It Take to Get Dental Implants?

How Long Does It Take to Get Dental Implants?

From first consultation to final crown, most dental implant treatment takes between four and nine months, with straightforward single-tooth cases often completing in around four to six months. The waiting is not idle time. It is the period in which bone fuses to the implant, and rushing it is the most common cause of avoidable failure. A planning appointment for dental implants will give you a case-specific timeline rather than a generic one. The variation between four months and eighteen months comes down to three things: whether a tooth...

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