Dr Salman Pirmohamed Prosthodontist in North London

Published: 11/06/2025
Edited by: Karolyn Judge on 19/06/2025

Tooth loss can affect more than just being able to chew. The gap, or gaps, that are left can lead to embarrassment, affect your speech, and even change your face shape over time. Dental implants, however, offer a solution that’s long-lasting and natural-looking. This article explains how dental implants in London can help restore both your smile and confidence.

What are dental implants and how do they work?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, usually made of titanium, which are placed into the jawbone to support replacement teeth. They can hold a crown (single tooth), bridge (multiple teeth), or even a full denture.

After the implant is placed, the bone naturally fuses to it in a process called osseointegration. This is where the replacement tooth is given a strong and stable base. Once healing is complete, the artificial tooth is attached, matching the shape and colour of the natural teeth.

Who is a suitable candidate for dental implants?

Most healthy adults who have lost one or more teeth may be suitable for dental implants. A detailed dental examination and imaging will help assess whether the jawbone is strong enough to hold the implant. In some cases, bone grafting may be needed.

You may be suitable for implants if you:

Have one or more missing teeth
Want a fixed alternative to dentures
Have healthy gums and good oral hygiene
Do not smoke or are willing to stop during healing
Have sufficient bone in the jaw or are open to bone grafting

If all teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing, they can be treated with a full-arch solution such as All-on-4, which involves supporting an entire set of teeth using as few as four implants.

What are the advantages of choosing dental implants?

Compared to other missing teeth solutions, implants offer several benefits:

Permanent solution: Implants are designed to last many years, often decades
Natural appearance: They look and feel like your own teeth
Preserve jawbone: Prevents bone loss that can occur with tooth loss
Improved function: Restores full chewing ability
No impact on nearby teeth: Unlike bridges, implants don’t require grinding down surrounding teeth

What should I expect during the implant process?

The treatment typically involves several stages over a few months, including:

Initial assessment: Exam, X-rays, and planning
Site preparation: Some patients may require bone grafting or sinus lift procedures to ensure a secure foundation for the implant
Implant placement: Performed under local anaesthetic
Healing period: Several weeks to allow integration with the bone
Abutment and crown fitting: Final stages to complete your restored smile

The process is highly successful, with modern implants having a success rate of over 95 per cent when placed by experienced professionals.

Are there any risks with dental implants?

As with any surgical procedure, dental implants carry some risks. These may include infection, implant failure (rare, with success rates typically over 95 per cent), or peri-implantitis, a condition similar to gum disease affecting the tissues around an implant. These risks are carefully managed through:

Meticulous surgical technique
Thorough pre-operative planning
Clear aftercare instructions and regular maintenance checks

Dr Salman Pirmohamed, a specialist prosthodontist, provides detailed guidance at each stage to reduce risks and ensure the best-possible outcome.

Why select a specialist prosthodontist for dental implants in London?

Dr Pirmohamed has advanced training in replacing missing teeth, which is essential for successful implant placement. His expertise ensures the surrounding gum and bone are properly managed, which greatly improves outcomes, particularly in complex cases.

Choosing a specialist for dental implants in London means you benefit from: