Dental implant

A dental implant is a medical device, typically made of titanium or titanium alloy, that is surgically inserted into the jawbone to act as an artificial root^2,3. These devices are used to replace a single missing tooth, multiple teeth, or a full arch of teeth^1,2. They provide a fixed alternative to removable dentures and can be used to support a crown, bridge, or denture^1,3. Additionally, implantable devices may be used for anchorage in orthodontic tooth movement or for maxillofacial prostheses².

The majority of implants are threaded endosseous devices with a tapered or cylindrical shape². The process involves two main phases: the surgical phase and the restorative phase³.

• Surgical phase: The implant is placed into the jawbone³. This can be done via two different methods:
  • One-stage procedure: A single surgery is performed to place the implant, leaving a small amount of metal visible in the mouth³.
  • Two-stage procedure: The first surgery places the implant under the gum³. A second, minor procedure is later performed to uncover the implant and connect it to the mouth³.
• Restorative phase: This involves taking a mould of the implant to attach the false tooth, such as a crown, bridge, or denture³.

If there is insufficient bone height or volume, a bone graft using a substitute or the patient's own bone may be required³.

The total treatment time is usually at least one year from start to finish³. After the surgical placement, the implant is typically left to heal in the bone for three to six months, though this can be longer³. If a bone graft is necessary, the treatment time is prolonged by at least four months³.

During the first few days following surgery, discomfort and swelling may occur, and some discomfort is normal for about a week³. A review appointment is typically arranged around one week after surgery to check healing and remove stitches if necessary³. Patients who use dentures may be unable to wear them for a few days immediately after surgery³. According to the NHS, patients should stay in the country where they had treatment for a suitable length of time to recover before travelling home⁴.

In Metio's data, a «package» price includes more than a single implant: for example the crown or abutment, several implants or a full arch, a hotel or transfers. A «procedure» price is the procedure alone. The two are never mixed in one figure.