A dental implant is a small titanium post that replaces the root of a missing tooth, providing a secure foundation for a natural-looking crown, bridge or denture. As a clinician with advanced training in implantology, Dr Mairi Henderson plans every case around your long-term oral health — restoring not just your smile, but the way you eat and speak with confidence.
Book a Consultation
What is a dental implant?
An implant is a biocompatible titanium post that’s gently placed into the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone over a few months to form a stable anchor. A custom-made crown, bridge or denture is then attached on top. Because the implant replaces the tooth root, it helps preserve the surrounding bone and functions much like a natural tooth — with no impact on the healthy teeth around it.
Common questions
Most healthy adults with good oral health are suitable. Factors such as gum health, bone volume, smoking and certain medical conditions can affect treatment — all of which we’ll assess at your consultation before recommending the best option for you.
Implant placement is carried out under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel discomfort during the procedure. Most patients find recovery far easier than they expect, with any tenderness afterwards easily managed.
With good oral hygiene and regular professional care, dental implants can last for many years — often decades. Looking after the gum and bone around the implant is key to its long-term success.
Yes. Peri-implantitis — inflammation and bone loss around an implant — can threaten its stability if left untreated, but it can often be managed successfully. As a periodontal specialist, Dr Mairi has particular expertise in treating problems around existing implants, whether they were placed here or elsewhere.
Not enough bone? That’s often manageable
Successful implants need a healthy volume of bone to anchor into. Where bone has been lost, a bone graft can rebuild the site so an implant can be placed safely. We’ll assess this carefully at your consultation and explain whether it applies to you.
Your implant journey
We begin with a thorough assessment of your teeth, gums and jawbone, using x-rays and digital scans to plan your treatment precisely. You’ll receive a clear written plan setting out your options, the process, and the costs involved.
The titanium implant is placed into the jawbone under local anaesthetic, in a carefully planned position. This is a precise but straightforward procedure, and most patients are surprised by how comfortable it is.
Over the following months the implant fuses naturally with the bone — a process called osseointegration — creating a strong, stable foundation. Where needed, a temporary restoration can keep your smile looking complete while it heals.
Once the implant has integrated, your custom-made crown, bridge or denture is attached and adjusted for a natural fit, feel and appearance — carefully matched to your surrounding teeth.
With good daily hygiene and regular reviews, implants can last for many years. Ongoing maintenance appointments keep the gum and bone around your implant healthy and stable for the long term.
Before & After
Dental implants – Patient A
Dental implants – Patient B
An implant is a long-term investment in your health, so my focus is always on careful planning and doing things properly — giving you a result that looks natural and lasts.
The first step is an implant consultation, where Dr Mairi will assess your suitability and talk you through your options clearly and without pressure.
Prices from £2,899
Single implant, restored. Implant-retained bridges are case dependent, and bone grafting starts from £495. A clear breakdown of costs is provided before any treatment begins.
Make an enquiry