Procedure
Single Tooth Dental Implant - UK Guide 2026
A single-tooth dental implant replaces one missing tooth with a titanium post placed into the jawbone, topped with a custom crown once the site has healed. It is the gold-standard alternative to a bridge or denture for a single missing tooth.
Who is this treatment for?
Ideal for patients who have lost one tooth to trauma, decay, or failed root canal treatment and want a permanent, standalone replacement that does not affect the neighbouring teeth.
How the treatment works, step by step
- 01
Consultation and 3D planning
Most private clinics begin with a clinical examination, a CBCT (3D) scan of the jaw, and a digital treatment plan. This is often free or discounted as part of a quote package.
- 02
Implant placement surgery
The titanium implant is placed into the jawbone under local anaesthetic in a procedure that typically takes 45-90 minutes. Most patients return to normal activities within 24-48 hours.
- 03
Osseointegration (healing)
Over 3-4 months, the bone grows around the implant in a process called osseointegration. A temporary crown or bridge can usually be worn during this period if the tooth is in a visible area.
- 04
Abutment and crown
Once healed, an abutment (connector) is fitted, and a custom-made crown is bonded or screwed onto the implant. This final restoration is matched in colour and shape to the neighbouring teeth.
What's included in a typical private quote
- Clinical examination and CBCT scan
- Digital treatment planning
- Surgical placement of the titanium implant
- Abutment (connector)
- Custom-made porcelain or zirconia crown
- Post-operative reviews
- Manufacturer warranty on the implant fixture
Common add-ons that affect the price
These are the most common items that may raise the final quote. A good consultation will tell you which of these apply to your case before you commit.
- Bone graft £300 - £1,200
- Sinus lift £1,000 - £2,500
- Tooth extraction prior to implant £80 - £300
- Immediate temporary crown £150 - £400
Are you a good candidate?
Most UK patients can have this treatment, but the following factors make a difference to clinical planning and long-term success:
- Generally good oral health with no active gum disease
- Sufficient jawbone density (bone grafting available if not)
- Non-smoker or willing to stop during healing (smoking reduces success)
- Over 18 years of age (jaw must be fully developed)
- No uncontrolled diabetes or bisphosphonate-related conditions
UK pricing at a glance
| Treatment | Unit | Typical range | Average | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Tooth Dental Implant | per tooth | £1,800 - £3,500 | £2,500 | 3-6 months |
| All-on-4 Dental Implants | per arch | £9,000 - £15,000 | £12,000 | 4-8 months |
| Full Mouth Dental Implants | both arches | £18,000 - £30,000 | £23,000 | 6-12 months |
Ranges are typical UK private-practice prices. Actual quotes depend on case complexity, bone condition, and materials used.
Why a single implant is usually better than a bridge
A traditional dental bridge replaces a missing tooth by anchoring a false tooth to the two neighbours. It works, but it requires grinding down those adjacent teeth - often permanently healthy ones - to fit the bridge. A single-tooth implant avoids that entirely, and protects the jawbone by stimulating it in the same way a natural tooth root does.
For most patients under 70 who want a long-term replacement, a single-tooth implant outperforms a bridge in longevity, jawbone preservation, and oral hygiene. The trade-off is upfront cost and a longer timeline.
How long does it last?
With good oral hygiene, a single dental implant in the UK has a 10-year survival rate of around 95% based on peer-reviewed data. The titanium fixture itself can last decades; the crown on top typically lasts 10-15 years and may be replaced once or twice over the lifetime of the implant. Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, and poor gum hygiene are the main risk factors for early failure.