If you are considering replacing missing teeth, you may be wondering about the dental implants cost UK patients can expect to pay. Dental implants are a long-term solution to tooth loss and offer one of the most effective and natural-looking ways to restore both your smile and oral health. However, implant costs can vary significantly depending on several factors, including your dental needs, the number of implants required, and any preparatory procedures needed before surgery.
We’re now going to take you through every step of the implant treatment journey, from the initial consultation to the final restoration. We’ll also explore additional cost factors, how different dental clinics approach pricing, and the important role clinics and dental laboratories play in shaping the overall cost. Whether you are looking into a single dental implant or considering full mouth restoration, this comprehensive guide will help you make an informed decision.
The initial consultation
What to expect during your first visit
Your initial consultation is the very first and most important step of the dental implant treatment journey. During this visit, your dentist will assess your overall oral health, review your medical history and talk about any previous or current dental problems. They will take diagnostic images such as X-rays or 3D scans to assess bone quality and quantity and to determine whether additional treatments are needed prior to implant placement.
This consultation is also when your personalised treatment plan is created. Based on your current mouth restoration needs, the dentist will outline the number of implants required, implant types to be used, and any additional procedures that may be necessary, such as bone grafts or sinus lifts.
This is also the time to discuss payment options. Many dental practices offer interest-free finance or payment plans to help spread the cost over several months or years.
Costs associated with initial assessments and X-rays
Some dental practices include a complimentary initial consultation within their treatment plan, but many others charge a fee that can range from £50 to £150. This often covers a basic oral examination, but may not include digital imaging.
For more detailed scans, such as CBCT scans, costs can range from £100 to £250. These scans are typically reserved for patients needing multiple implants or those with complex dental or facial trauma histories.
It is important to ask what is included in the initial cost. Are follow-up appointments included? Are sedation options covered? Are scanning images included? Clarifying what is included at this stage will help you compare clinic quotes accurately and avoid hidden fees later.
Preparatory treatments before implant surgery
Common pre-treatments: extractions, bone grafts and gum therapy
Before implant placement can proceed, many patients require preparatory procedures to ensure good oral health for long-term success. Common pre-treatments include tooth extractions, gum disease therapy, bone grafts and sinus lifts. These procedures are particularly important if you have experienced bone loss due to prolonged tooth loss, severe facial trauma or periodontal disease.
Bone grafts are often necessary when the jawbone is too weak or thin to support an implant. These grafts may use your own bone, donated bone or synthetic materials. Sinus lifts are necessary if the implants are to be placed in the upper jaw close to the sinus cavity. These lifts create enough vertical space for stable implant placement.
Gum therapy is required if you have signs of gum disease at the outset. Healthy gums support implant success and reduce the risk of infection. Tooth extractions may be needed if you have teeth that are decayed, infected or broken beyond repair.
Each of these preparatory treatments contributes to the stability and longevity of your implant treatment.
How these affect overall costs
These additional treatments can add significantly to the overall cost. Bone grafts generally cost between £300 and £1,000 per site, depending on the materials and complexity. Sinus lifts can range from £600 to £2,000 per side. Gum disease treatment and extractions range from £70 to £350 or more per tooth, depending on severity.
Although these procedures increase the initial cost, they are essential to the success of your dental implant treatment. Ignoring preparatory procedures risks implant failure or complications down the line. This is particularly important if you are planning multiple implants or a full mouth restoration.
The implant surgery itself
Step-by-step breakdown of the procedure
The implant procedure is typically carried out under local anaesthetic, though sedation options are available for anxious patients or those undergoing complex full-mouth implants.
During the procedure, a titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone to act as a root for the replacement tooth. The dentist will create an incision in the gum, drill a precise hole in the bone, insert the implant post and then close the gum over or around it.
Over the following months, the process of osseointegration occurs. This is where the bone fuses with the implant, providing a sturdy and lifelong foundation for the future crown or prosthesis. Once osseointegration is complete, an abutment is attached and the final restoration, such as a crown, bridge or denture, is fitted.
The surgical time for a single implant is generally around one hour. Patients needing multiple implants or full arch reconstruction may need several appointments over a few months.
Typical price range for a single implant
In the UK, the cost of dental implants for a single tooth implant usually falls between £2,000 and £2,500. This typically includes the implant itself, the abutment, the crown fitting, and follow-up appointments. Some clinics include the initial consultation and imaging in this package, but others list these as separate costs, so it is important to ask for a detailed breakdown.
In major cities like London, the price tends to be higher due to increased overheads. Prices for a single implant in London can exceed £3,000 in some clinics. This cost reflects the expertise of specialised implant dentists, advanced surgical suites, and labs in the area.
The healing phase and follow-up care
How long healing takes and what it involves
Following implant placement, a healing period of around three to six months is required. This allows the jawbone to integrate fully with the implant. During this time, a temporary crown or denture may be used to maintain aesthetics and chewing function.
During the healing period, patients will attend regular follow-up visits to monitor osseointegration and ensure soft tissue health. At these appointments, the dentist may adjust the temporary restoration or treat any issues that arise.
Additional costs during recovery
While the implant procedure is the main cost, recovery can involve additional charges. These might include prescription medication or adjustments to a temporary restoration. In rare cases, minor surgical revisions may be needed if bone grafting sites are not healing optimally or complications arise.
If your treatment plan indicates such charges, make sure your quote is comprehensive and includes these possible costs to avoid unexpected bills later.
Final restoration crown bridge or denture
Materials used and aesthetic choices
The final restoration stage involves fitting a crown, bridge or denture onto the implant or implants. Choosing the right restoration depends on how many teeth are missing. A single tooth implant typically receives a crown, while multiple implants may anchor a bridge or support a denture.
Restoration materials like porcelain or zirconia are selected for their strength and likeness to natural teeth. Porcelain crowns are often chosen for front teeth due to their superior aesthetics. Zirconia is gaining popularity for its durability and appearance.
Your dentist will discuss the options with you, taking into account your bite, facial structure and financial considerations. The goal is to provide a lifelong solution that mimics your natural teeth as closely as possible.
Associated laboratory and fitting fees
The final restoration is created by a dental laboratory using impressions or digital scans. Dental technicians craft the crown, bridge or denture based on precise specifications to ensure a perfect fit and look.
Laboratory fees and crown fitting costs typically add between £300 and £800 per tooth to the overall implant costs. Some clinics bundle these with the implant, while others list them separately. Always confirm if these charges are included in your treatment plan.
The role of dental laboratories in pricing
UK vs overseas labs: what’s the difference
Many clinics reduce costs by using overseas labs for dental restorations. While this may lower implant costs initially, it can affect turnaround times, warranty options and overall quality. In contrast, clinics that partner with UK laboratories often charge more but provide quicker adjustments, stronger quality assurance and easier communication.
For example, patients needing multiple implants or full arch work benefit from the precision that a UK dental laboratory can offer. This leads to better outcomes and fewer delays if adjustments are needed.
Quality assurance and long-term value
Although restorations from UK-based dental laboratories may cost more upfront, they typically provide better long-term value. High-quality work means fewer fitting issues, greater aesthetics and a longer lifespan. This makes the investment more cost-effective over time.
Opting for a UK lab also means better access to warranty coverage and easier returns if adjustments or repairs are needed. This support is especially valuable in complex mouth restoration and full mouth implant cases.
GoDigtal Dental: quality implants for dentists and patients
At GoDigital Dental, we are committed to delivering premium dental implant solutions that ensure precision, longevity and natural aesthetics. Our advanced digital workflows and state-of-the-art equipment allow us to support both clinicians and patients in achieving outstanding results. From digital planning and guided surgery to custom abutments and restorations, we provide complete support throughout every stage of the implant journey.
Whether you’re a dental practice seeking a reliable laboratory partner or a patient looking for exceptional restoration quality, our expertise in implant dentistry ensures seamless outcomes. By combining clinical insight with digital innovation, GoDigital Dental makes implant treatment more predictable, efficient and patient-focused. Trust us to be your partner in creating smiles that last.
