Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions I receive from patients. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to reach out directly — I’m happy to clarify.
1. Will the procedure hurt?
2. How long does it take to heal?
3. Can I eat or work after the procedure?
4. What should I expect after the surgery?
5. How much does a dental implant cost?
6. How long does it take from surgery to the final crown?
7. I smoke — can I have implants?
8. I’m a nervous patient — is that a problem?
9. Do you offer sedation?
10. Can I speak to you before booking a treatment?
11. Where do you practise?
12. What makes your approach different?
13. Do you have before-and-after photos?
14. What is a CBCT?
15. What kind of bone is used in bone grafting?
1. Will the procedure hurt?
You’ll be completely numb during the procedure thanks to local anaesthetic. While you might feel pressure, you shouldn’t feel pain. After treatment, any discomfort is usually mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relief.
2. How long does it take to heal?
Most people feel better within a few days. The gum heals in about 1–2 weeks, while deeper bone healing continues quietly over the following months. I’ll give you detailed post-op instructions to guide you.
3. Can I eat or work after the procedure?
It depends on the type of procedure, but for most extractions or implant placements, you should take it easy for the rest of the day. You can usually return to work the next day unless advised otherwise. I’ll give you clear post-op instructions based on your case.
4. What should I expect after the surgery?
You may experience mild swelling, soreness, or tightness in the area for a couple of days. These are normal and usually short-lived. You’ll receive simple instructions to help you recover smoothly.
5. How much does a dental implant cost?
Implant treatment costs vary depending on your case and the implant system we choose together. For straightforward cases (without bone grafting), implant placement typically ranges from £900 to £1500. This includes the surgery, the implant itself, and all related components — but not the crown.
I work with several trusted systems, including Straumann, Nobel, and MIS. The £1500 option refers to Straumann — widely considered the gold standard, offering excellent long-term outcomes and often reducing the need for bone grafting. MIS implants are more affordable, starting from £900, and can work well in suitable cases.
A CBCT scan is usually required and costs around £120.
The crown — placed after healing — typically ranges from £500 to £1000, depending on the tooth’s location and aesthetic requirements.
I’ll always advise you on which option is the safest long-term investment and whether bone grafting is necessary, optional, or not indicated. Not all locations offer the full range of systems and materials, so feel free to ask. We’ll choose the most appropriate solution — both clinically and financially.
6. How long does it take from surgery to the final crown?
In most cases, it takes 4 to 6 months from surgery to crown placement.
If bone grafting is needed, it can take 8 months to a year. I prefer to allow proper healing for the best long-term result — like baby teeth that take their time to come through.
7. I smoke — can I have implants?
Most of the time, yes. However, smoking is associated with a higher risk of implant failure over time due to constant heat and irritation in the mouth. We’ll talk about this in detail when planning your treatment so you can make an informed decision.
8. I’m a nervous patient — is that a problem?
Not at all. It’s more common than we think. I’ve worked with many patients who are anxious or hesitant. My goal is to make you feel safe and informed, without pressure. You’ll always know what to expect, and we’ll take things at a pace that works for you.
9. Do you offer sedation?
In most of the clinics I work with, sedation options can be arranged if needed — though many patients find treatment under local anaesthetic easier than expected. Let me know your concerns and I’ll explain your options.
10. Can I speak to you before booking a treatment?
Yes. Always. If you have questions before committing to a procedure, I’m happy to arrange a consultation or speak directly where appropriate. You deserve to feel confident and informed before making a decision.
11. Where do you practise?
I work across several private clinics in London including West Ealing, Loughton and Mayfair. If you’d like to know which one is most convenient for your case or location, just reach out and I’ll guide you accordingly.
12. What makes your approach different?
Having trained and worked in fast-paced international cities like Paris, London, and New York, I’ve developed a fine eye for detail and a sensitivity to different aesthetic demands. This background allows me to guide patients toward what will suit them best — especially when they can’t quite put it into words but expect the best. My technical training means I can often plan and treat cases that might otherwise be turned away or come with pages of disclaimers. I believe in clarity, calm decision-making, and care that’s both realistic and refined.
13. Do you have before-and-after photos?
You’ll find a few examples on my Instagram account (@oralsurgeryfocus), and I’m always happy to show more during a consultation. Not all patients consent to having their photos shared publicly, and I fully respect that — but I do keep a portfolio for educational and planning purposes.
14. What is a CBCT?
A CBCT — Cone Beam Computed Tomography — is a 3D x-ray. It gives a detailed view of your teeth and bone in three dimensions, helping us plan surgery precisely. It’s fast, comfortable, and uses low radiation.
15. What kind of bone is used in bone grafting?
When bone grafting is needed, we usually use a material called xenograft — a specially processed mineral bone substitute that supports healing and bone regeneration. In some cases, we may also use a small amount of the patient’s own bone (autograft) available in the surgical site, depending on the clinical need. These materials are safe, sterile, and carefully chosen to match your specific case without causing discomfort or concern.