When a tooth is extracted, it often leaves a noticeable gap and can impact not just your oral health, but your overall confidence too. At Opus Smile, we understand that replacing missing teeth goes beyond aesthetics — it’s essential for maintaining the integrity of your jawbone, surrounding teeth, and long-term oral function.
A dental implant after tooth extraction is one of the most advanced and reliable tooth replacement solutions available. The process involves inserting a small titanium post (acting as a tooth root) into the jawbone at the implant site, where it naturally fuses over time through a process called osseointegration. Once the implant placement is successful and the gum tissue has healed, a custom artificial tooth (crown) is fitted to complete the look and function of your new tooth.
This dental implant treatment not only replaces the missing tooth but also prevents bone resorption, maintains facial structure, and supports your remaining teeth. It is an investment in your long-term oral health, especially when compared to traditional bridges or dentures, which do not protect the jawbone in the same way.
We often recommend this treatment option shortly after a damaged tooth or tooth with severe decay is removed. In some cases, immediate implant placement may be possible, depending on bone density, the presence of any oral infection, and your medical history.
Why Dental Implants Are the Best Solution for Tooth Loss
At Opus Smile, we’ve helped many patients find their confidence again through dental implant treatment, and we firmly believe it’s the best solution for long-term tooth replacement. Unlike traditional bridges or dentures, dental implants offer unmatched stability, longevity, and a natural look that blends seamlessly with your natural teeth.
When a tooth is extracted and left unreplaced, the jawbone begins to deteriorate due to lack of stimulation from the tooth root. This leads to bone loss, which can affect the structure of your face and the alignment of your surrounding teeth. However, because dental implants integrate directly with the jaw, they prevent bone resorption, maintaining bone volume and the integrity of your smile.
Dental implants also allow you to eat and speak naturally, without the discomfort or slippage often experienced with dentures. Plus, they’re designed to last for decades with proper care, making them a cost-effective treatment option in the long run.
Whether you’ve lost a single tooth, several teeth, or are facing a full arch replacement, dental implants can be tailored to meet your needs. They restore function, support oral health, and offer a long-lasting solution to tooth loss.
The Dental Implant Process Explained
Understanding the dental implant process is key to feeling confident and informed about your treatment. At Opus Smile, we take the time to personalise every treatment plan to ensure the best outcome for your oral health and lifestyle.
The process begins with a free consultation where we assess your medical history, bone density, and the health of your gum tissue. We also evaluate whether a bone graft may be necessary if there’s been significant bone loss at the implant site. If your jawbone isn’t strong enough to support an implant, grafting helps rebuild it for a more secure implant placement.
Once you’re ready, we’ll schedule your dental implant surgery. During the procedure, a titanium implant is inserted into the jawbone to act as the tooth root. The area is then left to heal over a few months in a process called osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the bone. This is crucial for long-term stability and to prevent implant failure.
After healing, we’ll attach a custom-made artificial tooth (or crown) to the implant, perfectly matched to your natural teeth. In some cases, immediate implant placement is possible if your tooth extraction and implant procedure can be done at the same time — ideal for patients looking to minimise visits and recover quickly.
Throughout the entire implant process, our experienced team is here to support your comfort and answer your questions every step of the way.
When to Place Dental Implants After Extraction
Timing is everything when it comes to placing dental implants after a tooth extraction. At Opus Smile, we carefully evaluate each patient’s case to determine the most suitable moment for implant placement, ensuring optimal results and long-term oral health.
There are generally three options when considering a dental implant after tooth extraction:
Immediate Implant Placement – This occurs at the same time as the tooth is extracted. It can reduce the number of surgical procedures and preserve bone and gum tissue. However, this option is only suitable when there is no oral infection or gum disease, and the bone density is sufficient to support the implant.
Early Placement (4–8 weeks post-extraction) – Ideal when some healing is needed, particularly for the gum tissue, but before the bone resorption process begins. This approach balances healing with timely implant placement.
Delayed Placement (after 3–6 months) – Suitable if a bone graft is required or if healing from an infection or trauma is needed. While this takes longer, it ensures the surgical site is completely healed before proceeding with the implant procedure.
We understand that many factors can influence the timing, including your medical history, oral environment, and personal preferences. That’s why we tailor each treatment plan to the individual, helping you achieve a beautiful smile in the safest and most efficient way.
Immediate Implant Placement: What You Need to Know
For some patients at Opus Smile, immediate implant placement offers a fast and effective way to replace a missing tooth in just one appointment. As the name suggests, this approach involves placing a dental implant directly into the jawbone immediately after a tooth is extracted.
The benefits of this method are significant. First, it helps preserve the surrounding gum tissue and bone, reducing the risk of bone resorption. Secondly, it eliminates the need for multiple surgical visits, speeding up your recovery period and reducing overall discomfort.
However, this option isn’t suitable for everyone. The success of immediate implant placement depends on several factors, including:
Healthy gum tissue and no signs of oral infection or gum disease
Adequate bone density to support stable implant placement
Minimal damage to the tooth socket
A strong general medical history
If these criteria are met, immediate implant surgery can offer an efficient route to a fully restored tooth with fewer appointments. For patients looking for quick results with minimal disruption, it’s often the best solution.
During your free consultation, our dental professionals will determine whether this treatment option is right for you and explain what you can expect before, during, and after the implant procedure.
What Affects the Success of Implant Surgery
At Opus Smile, we pride ourselves on delivering successful dental implants through a meticulous approach and individualised care. However, like any surgical procedure, the success of dental implant surgery depends on a variety of factors — many of which can be managed with professional guidance and patient awareness.
Some of the key elements influencing implant success include:
Bone Quality and Density: Strong, healthy jawbone is essential for stable implant placement. In cases of bone loss, a bone graft may be recommended before proceeding.
Gum Health: Gum disease or oral infections can compromise healing and lead to implant failure. We’ll always ensure your gum tissue is in excellent condition before surgery.
Oral Hygiene: Keeping your mouth clean post-surgery is vital to prevent infection at the surgical site. We provide full aftercare instructions tailored to your needs.
Medical History: Conditions like diabetes, smoking, or immune disorders can slow the healing process. We take your full medical history into account when planning your dental implant treatment.
Implant Site: Implants in the upper jaw, especially near the sinus cavities, may require more careful planning or additional procedures to ensure success.
Bite Pressure and Placement: Uneven bite force or grinding teeth can stress the implant. We make precise adjustments to protect both the implant and your remaining teeth.
By addressing these factors early, we maximise your chances of a strong, long-lasting result. Our team of experienced oral surgeons and dental professionals are committed to helping you maintain optimal conditions throughout the implant process.
Managing Recovery After Dental Implant Surgery
Recovery after dental implant surgery is a crucial part of achieving a strong, lasting result — and at Opus Smile, we support you through every step of your healing process. While everyone’s recovery is slightly different, most patients return to normal routines within a few days.
Immediately after the implant procedure, it’s normal to experience some minor bleeding, swelling, or discomfort at the surgical site. These symptoms typically subside within a few days, especially when following our post-op care guidance. We always advise patients to rest, avoid strenuous activity, and take any prescribed medications to prevent infection.
During the first few days, we recommend eating soft foods and avoiding anything too hot, crunchy, or spicy. Good oral hygiene is essential — keeping your mouth clean without disturbing the implant area supports faster healing. Saltwater rinses can be helpful, and we’ll show you exactly how to care for your mouth at home.
The full recovery period can take several weeks to months, depending on the number of implants, the need for bone grafting, and overall health. During this time, the implant integrates with the jawbone, becoming a secure foundation for your artificial tooth.
By following our tailored aftercare plan and attending regular check-ups, we help ensure your dental implant treatment progresses smoothly — from tooth extraction to your final new tooth placement.
Are Dental Implants Covered Under Insurance?
One of the most common questions we receive at Opus Smile is whether dental implants are covered under insurance plans. While dental implant treatment is recognised as the gold standard for replacing missing teeth, coverage can vary significantly depending on your provider and the specific terms of your policy.
In the UK, NHS dental treatment typically does not cover dental implants, as they are often considered a cosmetic or elective procedure. However, in cases where tooth loss has a severe impact on your function or oral health, exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis.
For private dental insurance holders, some plans may cover dental implants partially, especially if they’re deemed medically necessary following an oral infection, trauma, or tooth decay. Policies might also contribute to associated costs such as tooth extraction, bone grafting, or the crown placed atop the implant.
We strongly recommend reviewing your policy or contacting your insurance provider directly to find out if they cover implants. Additionally, we’re more than happy to assist you with paperwork and provide detailed treatment breakdowns to help with any claims.
For those without sufficient insurance coverage, we offer flexible payment options and interest-free finance plans to make the implant procedure more affordable — because everyone deserves a beautiful smile and long-term oral health.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost in the UK?
At Opus Smile, we believe in transparent pricing and high-quality care. The cost of dental implants in the UK varies depending on several factors, but investing in your smile today can offer many benefits for years to come.
On average, a single dental implant in the UK can range from £1,800 to £3,000, which includes the implant placement, crown, and necessary check-ups. If additional procedures are needed — such as tooth extraction, bone graft, or sinus lift — these may increase the overall cost.
Here are the key factors that affect pricing:
Number of implants required
Need for pre-treatments (e.g. bone grafting or managing gum disease)
Location of the implant site (e.g. upper jaw may require sinus lift)
Type of restoration (e.g. crown, bridge, or denture)
Materials used for the artificial tooth
Choosing a dental implant is not just about replacing a missing tooth — it’s about investing in a natural-looking, permanent solution that protects your oral health and enhances your confidence.
Book a Free Consultation at Opus Smile
Choosing the right dental professional for your dental implant after tooth extraction is an important step toward achieving a confident, healthy smile. At Opus Smile, we make the process stress-free by offering a free consultation, so you can explore your options and receive expert guidance tailored to your needs.
During your visit, our experienced team will:
Assess your medical history and current oral health
Examine your tooth loss, bone density, and gum tissue
Discuss whether you’re suitable for immediate implant placement or require additional procedures like a bone graft
Explain the full implant process and timeline
Provide a transparent cost breakdown with flexible finance plans
Answer any questions you have about preventing implant failure, caring for the surgical site, and maintaining long-term success
Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, we’re here to guide you through your options — from tooth extraction to your final new tooth. Our friendly, highly skilled team ensures your dental implant surgery replaces not just a damaged tooth, but restores your confidence and ability to enjoy life.
Don’t let a missing tooth hold you back. Experience the many benefits of a permanent, natural-looking solution by booking your free consultation today.
