A dental implant is a small titanium post placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth, with a crown fixed on top. It is the closest modern option to a natural tooth because it stands on its own and does not rely on the neighbouring teeth, unlike a bridge.
First comes a scan and an assessment of the bone, because the implant needs enough healthy bone to hold it. The post is then placed and left for a few months to fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. Once it is stable, a crown is attached on top. The whole journey from placement to the final crown is typically a few months.
Implants work well for most healthy adults, but smoking, gum disease and some medical conditions can affect how well they heal, so those are discussed up front. Good oral hygiene matters a lot: a neglected implant can fail just like a neglected tooth.
Implants cost more than a bridge or denture up front, but they are designed to last for many years if looked after. In Dubai prices vary widely between clinics, so compare the full quote — scan, surgery and crown — not just the headline number, and ask what the aftercare includes.