Losing a tooth can affect far more than just your appearance. It can change how you chew, speak, and even how confident you feel when smiling. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers a highly reliable and long-lasting solution: dental implants. Many patients ask, “How does a dental implant actually work as a tooth replacement?”

At Paulton Dental & Implant Centre, we help patients across Paulton, Bath, Radstock, and the wider area restore their smiles using advanced dental implant solutions. This detailed guide explains how dental implants function, why they are so effective, and what makes them the gold standard for replacing missing teeth.

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What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a permanent tooth replacement that mimics the structure of a natural tooth. Unlike dentures or bridges, which sit on the gums or rely on neighbouring teeth for support, a dental implant is anchored directly into the jawbone.

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A complete dental implant has three main parts:

• The implant post – a small titanium screw placed into the jawbone
• The abutment – a connector that attaches to the implant post
• The crown – the visible, tooth-shaped restoration

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Together, these components function just like a natural tooth—both in appearance and performance.

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How Dental Implants Replace Missing Teeth

Dental implants are unique because they replace not only the visible part of the tooth, but also the root. This is what makes them such a strong and natural-feeling solution.

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Step 1: The Implant Replaces the Tooth Root

The titanium implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone where the missing tooth once sat. Titanium is used because it is biocompatible, meaning the body accepts it safely.

Over time, the bone bonds with the implant in a process called osseointegration, creating a secure and stable foundation—similar to a natural tooth root.

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Step 2: Osseointegration Creates Stability

Osseointegration is the key to how dental implants work so effectively.

During healing:

• The jawbone grows around the implant
• The implant becomes firmly fixed in place
• Chewing forces are evenly distributed through the bone
• Bone loss is prevented

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This direct connection is why implants do not slip or move, unlike traditional dentures.

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Step 3: The Abutment Connects the Crown

Once the implant has fully integrated with the bone, an abutment is attached. This small connector sits just above the gum line and provides a stable base for the dental crown.

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The abutment ensures the crown is securely attached and properly aligned with your bite.

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Step 4: The Crown Restores Function and Appearance

The final step is placing the custom-made crown. Designed to match the colour, shape, and size of your natural teeth, the crown restores:

• Normal chewing ability
• Clear speech
• A natural-looking smile

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Once in place, the implant functions just like a real tooth.

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Why Dental Implants Feel So Natural

Dental implants are often described as the most natural tooth replacement option available. This is because they:

• Are fixed in place, not removable
• Stimulate the jawbone like real teeth
• Allow normal biting and chewing
• Do not rely on neighbouring teeth for support

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Many patients report forgetting which tooth is the implant once treatment is complete.

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Dental Implants vs Other Tooth Replacement Options

Understanding how implants work is easier when comparing them to other solutions.

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Dental Bridges

• Supported by neighbouring teeth
• Require healthy teeth to be filed down
• Do not replace the tooth root
• Do not prevent bone loss

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Dentures

• Sit on top of the gums
• May move or slip
• Can cause sore spots
• Do not stimulate the jawbone

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Dental Implants

• Replace both tooth and root
• Prevent bone loss
• Stay firmly in place
• Protect surrounding teeth

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This makes implants the most complete and long-lasting solution.

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Can Dental Implants Replace One or Multiple Teeth?

Yes. Dental implants are extremely versatile.

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Single Tooth Replacement

One implant supports one crown, replacing a single missing tooth without affecting adjacent teeth.

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Multiple Teeth Replacement

Implants can support bridges or implant-supported dentures, replacing several teeth with fewer implants.

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Full Arch Replacement

Advanced techniques allow a full set of teeth to be supported by just four to six implants.

Your dentist will recommend the most suitable option based on your needs.

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What Makes Dental Implants So Strong?

Dental implants are designed to withstand everyday chewing forces.

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Key reasons for their strength include:

• Titanium implant material
• Direct fusion with the jawbone
• Even distribution of bite pressure
• Custom-fitted crowns

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With proper care, implants can last for decades—and often a lifetime.

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The Dental Implant Process: What to Expect

While dental implants work as a permanent solution, the process takes place in stages.

1. Comprehensive consultation and scans
2. Personalised treatment planning
3. Implant placement procedure
4. Healing and osseointegration
5. Final crown placement

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Although treatment takes time, the result is a stable and natural tooth replacement.

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Who Can Benefit From Dental Implants?

Dental implants are suitable for many adults who:

• Have one or more missing teeth
• Have healthy gums
• Have enough jawbone (or can have bone grafting)
• Want a long-term solution

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Age alone is not a limiting factor—many patients receive implants later in life.

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Caring for a Dental Implant

Dental implants require similar care to natural teeth.

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To keep your implant healthy:

• Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss carefully around the implant
• Attend regular dental check-ups
• Avoid smoking
• Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth

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Good oral hygiene helps ensure long-term success.

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Why Choose Paulton Dental & Implant Centre?

Patients seeking dental implants in Paulton choose Paulton Dental & Implant Centre because we offer:

• Experience in implant dentistry
• Advanced digital planning and diagnostics
• Tailored treatment for each patient
• Focus on comfort and long-term success
• Clear guidance throughout the process

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Our aim is to restore not just your teeth, but your confidence and quality of life.

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How Does a Dental Implant Work as a Tooth Replacement? The Key Takeaway

Dental implants work by replacing both the root and crown of a missing tooth, creating a strong, stable, and natural-feeling solution. Through osseointegration, implants become part of your jawbone—allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

If you are considering dental implants and want to understand whether they are right for you, book a consultation with Paulton Dental & Implant Centre. Our team will assess your needs and guide you through a tooth replacement solution designed to last.

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