type of dental implants

Dental Implant Abutments: Types, Materials and How They Work

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A dental implant abutment is the connector piece that joins the titanium implant post — which is fixed in the jawbone — to the visible crown, bridge or prosthesis on top. Without the abutment, the implant and the restoration cannot be joined. Understanding what abutments are and how they work helps patients make sense of their treatment plan and the components involved in their restoration.

At Asensio Advanced Dentistry in Valencia, abutment selection is part of the treatment planning process for every implant case. The choice of abutment type and material affects the fit, aesthetics and long-term stability of the final restoration. Dr. Lucía Asensio Romero, specialist in implantology and oral surgery with over 30 years of experience, selects the appropriate abutment for each case based on the implant system, bone level, gum tissue and prosthetic design.

The three components of a dental implant

A complete dental implant restoration consists of three distinct components, each with a specific function:

Component Location Function
Implant fixture Inside the jawbone Replaces the tooth root — titanium post that fuses with bone through osseointegration
Abutment At gum level Connects the implant fixture to the crown — provides the shape the crown sits on
Crown / prosthesis Above the gum The visible restoration — designed to match surrounding teeth in colour, shape and function

Types of dental implant abutments

Different stages of treatment require different abutment types. The three main categories are:

Type When used Purpose
Healing abutment Immediately after implant placement Shapes the gum tissue around the implant while osseointegration occurs — removed before final restoration
Temporary abutment During osseointegration period Supports the provisional crown while the implant integrates — replaced at second visit
Final abutment At second visit after osseointegration Permanent connector for the definitive crown — precision-fit to the specific implant and crown design

Abutment materials

The choice of abutment material affects both the aesthetics and the mechanical performance of the restoration. The most commonly used materials are:

Material Advantages Best used for
Titanium Maximum strength, biocompatible, lightweight, long clinical track record Most cases — the default choice for strength and reliability
Zirconia Tooth-coloured — eliminates grey gum line, excellent biocompatibility Front teeth where aesthetics are critical and gum tissue is thin
Gold alloy Excellent precision fit, biocompatible Complex prosthetic cases requiring precision casting
PEEK (polyether ether ketone) Lightweight, tooth-coloured, used for temporaries Provisional restorations during osseointegration

At Asensio, abutments are sourced exclusively from Nobel Biocare and Klockner — the same implant brands used for the fixtures. Using manufacturer-matched components ensures precise fit, consistent performance and compatibility with the lifetime guarantee on materials.

Frequently asked questions

Is the abutment included in the implant price?

Yes. At Asensio, the quoted price for a single implant (£850) includes the implant fixture, abutment and porcelain crown — all three components. There are no hidden additions for standard cases. View the full breakdown on our prices page.

Can an abutment fail or need replacing?

Abutment loosening is one of the most common minor implant complications. It is usually resolved by retightening or replacing the abutment — a straightforward procedure that does not affect the implant fixture itself. If you experience a loose or uncomfortable crown, contact us promptly rather than leaving it, as a loose abutment can cause damage to the implant connection over time.

What is the difference between a cement-retained and a screw-retained crown?

Crowns can be attached to abutments either by dental cement or by a small retaining screw. Screw-retained crowns are removable by the dentist for maintenance or adjustment — they are generally preferred for implant restorations because they allow easier access if the abutment needs attention. Cement-retained crowns are fixed permanently and cannot be removed without risk of damage.

Do I need to do anything special to care for my abutment?

The abutment itself requires no special care beyond the standard implant cleaning routine — soft toothbrush, interdental brush and water flosser daily. The critical area to clean is the junction between the abutment and the gum, where bacterial biofilm accumulates and can cause peri-implant infection if not removed regularly. See our dental implant care guide for full instructions.

Related guides

Spaces of a dental clinic

KNOW THE SPACES OF A DENTAL CLINIC

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Transmitting a good image of your dental clinic is key to being able to show your patients how you are and what values you represent in your dental clinic. Also, from a good first impression, patients can feel safer and much calmer before starting the treatment.

In our dental clinic, you can find several differentiated spaces that can make you feel at home and increase your feeling of relaxation from the first moment:
1. Exterior of the dental clinic. Located in an unbeatable location in terms of accessibility, allowing you to get to your first visit via the metro and bus lines without any problem. You save gasoline and contribute to the environment by using public transport and even cycling.
2. Spacious, neat, and clean reception with several waiting rooms. We will always receive you with a smile.
3. Asensio coffee area, where you can enjoy a spice while having a coffee.
4. Several waiting rooms (first floor and upper floor)
5. Management offices
6. X-ray room
7. Cabinets. They are the center of the consultation, and each and every treatment is practiced there. Each cabinet is equipped with its dental chair and they are closed spaces for greater privacy.
8. Warehouse
9. Sterilization room
With 87% more than the reception and waiting rooms, our patients prefer the cabinet without a doubt. They consider it the best space since they have spent part of the treatment process there and it is where they have been most relaxed and happy. Visit us and experience yourself!

Request your appointment and put yourself in the hands of the team of Dr. Lucia Asensio and Dr. Jose Luis Lanuza, a leading professional team in dental health, dental implants health and dental aesthetics in Valencia, and feel free to call us at 0800 086 9049 or send an email to office@dentalasensio.co.uk

 

 

dental holiday

ADVANTAGES AND CURIOSITIES ABOUT DENTAL VENEERS

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At Asensio Advanced Odontology we want to resolve doubts that may arise in anyone who is going to undergo a treatment at our dental clinic in Valencia.

This time, our specialized professional team has been in charge of solving all the questions of our patients and people who are interested in the treatment of dental veneers. It is one of the most demanded dental aesthetics solutions today to correct fractured, stained, misaligned, worn, uneven or abnormally spaced teeth.

What are dental veneers?

This aesthetic treatment consists of the placement of ultra-thin ceramic sheets in the outermost part of the tooth, covering it completely to achieve the desired color and shape, providing a natural and attractive appearance, which have been previously studied with the patient. It is a totally painless treatment and in just one session you can achieve your smile 10, as described by Dr. Lucía Asensio, an expert in smile design at Asensio Advanced Dentistry.

What are the advantages?

It is a very simple teeth whitening that:

  •  Corrects multiple defects in the teeth. The shape, size and alignment of teeth can be improved, color improved, diastemas closed, etc.
  • Elevate the aesthetics of your mouth. The color of the porcelain appears natural and brings luminosity to your mouth
  • Very conservative dental preparation. It is a minimally invasive technique and veneers are much less likely to affect the nerve within the tooth.
  • Strengthens teeth and restores functionality. They help strengthen fractured and sensitive teeth. Veneers can be used to restore worn dentin caused by bruxism as part of a complete oral rehabilitation.
  • Increased self-esteem.
  • They need little recovery time
  • Resistance to staining and staining. Porcelain is resistant to classic stains from coffee, tea, tobacco and non-alcoholic beverages
  • Local and general bi-compatibility. Ceramic, together with gold, are the materials that have the least biological reactions and bacterial plaque does not accumulate on their surface.
  • Resistant to chemical attack. Both drugs or antibiotics, such as acids (citrus or others), alcoholic beverages and cosmetics can alter tooth enamel. The advantage of dental veneers is that they remain unchanged in these situations

What does the procedure consist of?

Dental veneers are custom designed for each patient and are generally made of resin or porcelain. To begin this process, the first thing that is done is to remove a thin layer of enamel from each tooth, to later model the porcelain pieces and adhere them to the surface of your teeth.

Who can have this treatment?

Anyone can proceed to undergo a treatment with dental veneers, although we highlight the following profiles:

  • Discolored and / or worn teeth
  • Irregular and gapped teeth
  • Chipped teeth

Is the thickness of my teeth reduced a lot?

The changes that are made to the enamel of your teeth are minimal. Thanks to the technological advances that our dental clinic has, we will respect a large part of the surface of your tooth. It will also depend on several factors:

  • Tooth color
  • Position. Analyze if it is out of place
  • Anatomy Are they canines, premolars, incisors or molars, etc?
  • Old restorations

How long does the treatment last?

At Asensio Odontología Avanzada we are specialists in smile design. Dr. Lanuza and Dr. Lucia Asensio inform us that the treatment only lasts for approximately 4 appointments, which include:

  • Revision
  • Taking dental impressions
  • Preparation of teeth
  • Proof
  • Final placement of dental veneers

Request your appointment and put yourself in the hands of the team of Dr. Lucia Asensio and Dr. Jose Luis Lanuza, a leading professional team in dental health, implantology and dental aesthetics in Valencia.

holistic dentistry in spain

What are dental amalgams?

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Amalgams are the material largely composed of mercury and an alloy of silver, tin, and copper, which is used to fill gaps where tooth decay occurs. It has been used for more than 150 years in hundreds of millions of patients around the world.

The main risk of this material is that it contains mercury and can be released in the form of a vapor, which can be inhaled and absorbed through the lungs in surgery with personnel not qualified for this type of action. The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT) describes a product based on the protection of the patient and the dentist from the vapor and mercury particles released in the process. In its vapor form, inhaled mercury will pass into the blood system by up to 80%. At Asensio Odontología Avanzada, we use a unique protocol with highly qualified staff and all the innovation in equipment and technology necessary for these successful withdrawals.

Alternatives to dental amalgam

At Asensio Odontología Avanzada, we are committed to comprehensive and holistic dentistry abroad. One of our main objectives is to take care of the dental health of our patients, contributing and respecting the environment, with the use of top-quality biocompatible materials.

Amalgams contain mercury, a material highly toxic to health in general. Instead, the most common filling is with composite resins or composites or glass ionomer. It is a mixture of an organic or resin matrix and an inorganic one, which will form the filling that will give the tooth hardness and resistance.

The resin that is most used today is BIS-GMA or bisphenol-a and its derivatives. They have been shown to be endocrine transducers that affect our endocrine system.

Like all direct filling materials, they are all used to restore the surface of the tooth that has been damaged by decay.

 

dental clinic

WHAT IS TOOTH WHITENING?

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In the aesthetics sector, teeth whitening is the treatment that is responsible for reducing the original color of the teeth by several tones, leaving the teeth whiter and brighter.

With teeth whitening, it is possible to eliminate the stains produced in the pieces due to substances such as tea, coffee, and other infusions, cigarettes, red wine and alcoholic beverages, and even sugary foods. It is true that not all stains can be eliminated or reduced through teeth whitening and may need other types of aesthetic treatments such as porcelain dental veneers.

In Asensio Odontología Avanzada, we offer you the tooth whitening technique with the most spectacular results on the market. It is a modern, fast, and effective procedure for whitening darkened and stained teeth.

The whitening process takes approximately one hour and the patient can see the results from the first session, thanks to our innovative appliances and advanced laser equipment such as Phillips Zoom. In addition, our team of specialized dentists gives special recommendations to allow you to keep perfect, white, and shiny dental hygiene from your home. The treatment can be repeated every six months or year, depending on the spots or pigmentation present.

It is important and necessary to have a professional dental cleaning with a laser before getting the Zoom whitening session at our dental clinic in valencia. We are one of the few clinics in Valencia that have the latest generation technology to apply it.

How is the whitening process with Phillips Zoom in dental clinic Asensio ?

It is an alternative whitening to laser, less intense than the usual ones, where lasers are not used to accelerate the whitening effect of a concentrated gel. It is a state-of-the-art whitening lamp that speeds up the process and is less aggressive than other techniques with which you will hardly experience any tooth sensitivity.

In this process, 35% hydrogen peroxide bleaching is activated. As hydrogen peroxide breaks down, oxygen enters the enamel and dentin to whiten stained substances, without changing the structure of the tooth.

The Phillips Zoom working method is practically identical to that of the laser technologies but with the additional use of LED lights to speed up the process.

The main advantage is that it is less intense, thereby not affecting your tooth sensitivity. Moreover, it will take several sessions to complete it, although you will see results from the first day of treatment.

It must be borne in mind that whitening has no effect on any type of restorations such as amalgams and restorations made with halogen light (resins or white fillings, inlays and crowns, or bridges).

Step by step with Phillips Zoom

The treatment lasts less than an hour and you will get results from the first session. The frequently used procedure in Asensio Advanced Dentistry is divided into the following steps:

  1. The patient’s lips and gums are covered with a gingival protector or barrier to expose the teeth for subsequent work on.
  2. The whitening specialist applies Zoom hydrogen peroxide whitening gel on the teeth and then with a personalized mouthpiece for each patient, we bring the lamp closer to their mouth, which together with the light from the Phillips Zoom lamp works to penetrate the tooth and disintegrate stains and discoloration.
  3. The gel is allowed to act for 15 minutes together with the Phillips Zoom LED light.
  4. During this time, the patient can enjoy a movie with our latest generation 3D glasses, in a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
  5. Four cycles of photoactivation are carried out in the clinic. The session is divided into four 15-minute sessions, where the same process is repeated four times with the zoom light activated to achieve an effective whitening effect.
  6. Once the four sessions of 15 minutes each have finished, a gel-paste with fluoride is applied to the teeth to reduce tooth sensitivity.

Why teeth whitening in Asensio Advanced Dentistry?

90% of our patients recommend us for a pleasant experience in all kinds of aesthetic and dental health treatments. At Asensio dental clinic, we adapt to the needs of each of our patients to achieve their goals. After the first visit, we recommend the best way to improve the health and aesthetics of our patients.

At Asensio Odontología Avanzada, we have the greatest innovation in technology on the market and we are one of the only few dental clinics in Valencia with this type of technology that manages to reduce treatment time and achieves more effective and extraordinary results.

We have the best specialized professional team and we are a recognized dental clinic with a Dentist brand specialized in advanced dental implants and complex cases with maxillary atrophy; even complex cases ruled out by other dentists.

Asensio Dental Clinic, since 1997 by your side, with a Quality System certificate, in accordance with the ISO 9001 and UNE standards, granted by AENOR (Spanish Association for Standardization and Certification), is taking care of your oral health and that of your family.

dental implants spain

Dental Hybrid Prosthesis: What It Is and How It Works

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A dental hybrid prosthesis is a fixed implant-supported restoration that combines a rigid metal or zirconia framework with resin or acrylic teeth. It is one of the most common definitive restorations used in full arch rehabilitation — including All-on-4 — because it combines the stability of a fixed prosthesis with the aesthetic flexibility of composite teeth and the cost-effectiveness of acrylic over all-ceramic options.

Unlike a removable denture, a hybrid prosthesis is fixed to the implants and cannot be removed by the patient. Unlike an all-ceramic bridge, it uses a hybrid construction that allows the restoration to be lighter, easier to repair and more adaptable to complex anatomical situations. At Asensio Advanced Dentistry in Valencia, hybrid prostheses are the standard definitive restoration for All-on-4 full arch cases, planned and fitted by Dr. Lucía Asensio Romero, specialist in implantology and oral surgery with over 30 years of experience.

How is a dental hybrid prosthesis constructed?

A hybrid prosthesis has two main structural elements that work together to provide a stable, aesthetic and functional result:

Component Material Function
Framework Titanium, cobalt-chrome or zirconia Rigid structural base that connects to the implant abutments — provides strength and precise fit
Teeth Acrylic resin or composite Aesthetic element — individually shaped and colour-matched to simulate natural teeth

The framework is manufactured in a dental laboratory using digital scanning of the patient’s mouth and implant positions. The fit to the implant abutments must be precise — any inaccuracy creates mechanical stress that can affect the implants over time. At Asensio, all prosthetic components are manufactured to Nobel Biocare or Klockner specifications using digital workflow and in-house laboratory oversight.

Hybrid prosthesis vs all-ceramic bridge

Factor Hybrid prosthesis All-ceramic bridge
Weight Lighter — less load on implants Heavier
Repairability Individual teeth can be repaired or replaced without replacing the whole prosthesis Damage typically requires full replacement
Aesthetics Very good — resin teeth closely mimic natural teeth Excellent — ceramic is closest to natural tooth appearance
Cost Lower — resin teeth are less expensive than full ceramic Higher
Longevity 10–15 years for the prosthetic teeth — framework lasts much longer 15–20 years with good care

Hybrid prosthesis in All-on-4 treatment

In All-on-4 full arch rehabilitation, the treatment involves two prostheses: a provisional and a definitive. The provisional — fitted on the same day as surgery — is a temporary hybrid prosthesis that allows patients to eat and speak normally during the osseointegration period. The definitive hybrid prosthesis is fitted at the second visit, 3–6 months later, once osseointegration is confirmed.

The definitive prosthesis is custom-made for each patient based on digital scans taken during the second visit. It is designed to optimise function, aesthetics and bite — and is fitted with precision to the implant abutments. For full information about the All-on-4 procedure see our All-on-4 dental implants abroad page.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a hybrid prosthesis last?

The metal or zirconia framework is designed to last many years — typically the lifetime of the implants. The acrylic or resin teeth are subject to wear and may need renewal after 10–15 years depending on use and care. One advantage of the hybrid construction is that individual teeth can be repaired or replaced without replacing the entire prosthesis.

Can a hybrid prosthesis be repaired if a tooth chips or breaks?

Yes. This is one of the key advantages of hybrid construction over all-ceramic bridges. Individual acrylic or resin teeth can be repaired or replaced at the clinic without affecting the framework or the implants. Contact us if you experience any damage to your restoration — prompt repair prevents further wear on adjacent teeth.

How do I clean a hybrid prosthesis?

A hybrid prosthesis is cleaned in place using a soft toothbrush, interdental brush and water flosser. The gap between the prosthesis and the gum — where food and bacteria can accumulate — requires particular attention. See our All-on-4 cleaning guide and dental implant care guide for full instructions.

What is the cost of a hybrid prosthesis at Asensio?

The cost of a hybrid prosthesis depends on the number of implants, the materials used and the complexity of the case. For All-on-4 patients, the provisional hybrid prosthesis is included in the £6,480 per arch price. The definitive prosthesis is quoted separately after the second visit assessment. View the full breakdown on our prices page or contact us for a personalised quote.

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Osseointegration

Osseointegration: How Dental Implants Bond with Bone

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Osseointegration is the biological process by which a dental implant fuses with the surrounding jawbone, creating a stable, permanent foundation for the crown or prosthesis placed on top. It is the fundamental mechanism that makes dental implants the gold standard for tooth replacement — and understanding it helps patients set realistic expectations for their treatment timeline and recovery.

The term was coined by Swedish orthopaedic surgeon Professor Per-Ingvar Brånemark, who first observed the process in the 1950s and later pioneered the use of titanium implants in dentistry. At Asensio Advanced Dentistry in Valencia, osseointegration is the foundation of every implant procedure performed by Dr. Lucía Asensio Romero, specialist in implantology and oral surgery with over 30 years of clinical experience.

What happens during osseointegration?

When a titanium implant is placed into the jawbone, the body does not recognise it as a foreign object — it recognises it as a surface suitable for bone attachment. Titanium is biocompatible: its surface properties allow bone cells (osteoblasts) to adhere, proliferate and eventually form new bone tissue directly on the implant surface. Over time, the implant becomes structurally integrated with the surrounding bone, indistinguishable in terms of mechanical function from a natural tooth root.

Stage Timeframe What happens
Initial healing Days 1–7 Blood clot forms around implant, inflammatory response begins, soft tissue starts to close
Early osseointegration Weeks 2–4 Osteoblasts begin depositing new bone tissue on implant surface, early mechanical stability develops
Progressive integration Months 1–3 Bone density around implant increases, implant stability improves significantly
Full osseointegration Months 3–6 Mature bone has formed around the full implant surface — definitive restoration can be fitted

How long does osseointegration take?

The osseointegration period typically takes between 3 and 6 months, depending on the patient’s bone density, general health, implant location and loading protocol. Lower jaw implants tend to integrate faster than upper jaw implants because the bone is denser. Patients with good bone volume and no systemic conditions affecting healing are at the shorter end of this range.

During the osseointegration period, patients wear a provisional prosthesis — a functional restoration that allows normal eating and speaking while the implant integrates. For All-on-4 patients this is a fixed provisional arch fitted on the same day as surgery. For single implant patients it is typically a temporary crown.

What affects osseointegration success?

Factor Effect on osseointegration
Implant material and surface Titanium with a roughened surface promotes faster and stronger bone attachment than smooth surfaces
Bone quality and volume Denser, well-vascularised bone integrates more reliably and quickly
Smoking Significantly impairs blood supply to bone tissue, slowing integration and increasing failure risk
Uncontrolled diabetes Impairs immune function and wound healing, increasing complication risk
Surgical precision Overheating bone during drilling or poor implant positioning compromises initial stability
Oral hygiene Bacterial infection around the implant site is the leading cause of osseointegration failure

Aftercare during osseointegration

The osseointegration period requires specific aftercare to protect the implant while the bone forms. At Asensio, every patient receives written aftercare instructions before leaving the clinic. The key principles are:

Period What to do What to avoid
First 24 hours Apply ice packs, rest, take prescribed medication Rinsing, spitting, hot food and drink
First week Soft diet, gentle oral hygiene, antibiotics as prescribed Strenuous exercise, smoking, alcohol, hard food
Osseointegration period Daily cleaning routine, regular professional reviews Smoking, excessive force on the provisional prosthesis

For full guidance on caring for your implants during and after osseointegration, see our dental implant care guide and our peri-implantitis guide — the main infection risk during this period.

Frequently asked questions

Can I feel osseointegration happening?

No. The process is entirely biological and occurs without any sensation the patient can perceive. Some mild sensitivity around the implant site in the first few weeks is normal as the soft tissue heals, but osseointegration itself is painless. If you experience persistent pain or swelling after the first week, contact us promptly.

What happens if osseointegration fails?

Osseointegration failure — where the implant does not bond with the bone — is uncommon but does occur. Signs include implant mobility, persistent pain or infection. In most cases the implant can be removed, the site treated and a new implant placed after a healing period. At Asensio, all implant materials carry a lifetime guarantee — if an implant fails due to material defect, replacement is covered.

Does osseointegration happen faster with better implant brands?

Implant surface technology significantly affects osseointegration speed and reliability. Nobel Biocare and Klockner implants — the systems used exclusively at Asensio — use clinically validated surface treatments that promote faster and more predictable bone attachment than generic implant systems. This is one of the key reasons we do not compromise on implant brand.

Can I fly back to the UK after implant surgery?

Yes. Most patients fly home within 2–3 days of surgery. Flying does not affect osseointegration. The key is ensuring the initial healing period is managed correctly before travel and that you have the aftercare instructions and emergency contact details before you leave Valencia.

How do I know when osseointegration is complete?

Osseointegration is confirmed at the second visit to Asensio using clinical assessment and radiographic imaging. The implant is tested for stability and bone levels are evaluated on the X-ray before the definitive restoration is fitted. Call us on 0800 048 8058 or visit our dental implants abroad page for more information.

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immediate dental implants

Immediate Dental Implants: Placed the Same Day as Extraction

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Immediate dental implants are placed into the socket on the same day as the tooth extraction — eliminating the waiting period that conventional implant protocols require between extraction and implant placement. In suitable cases, this reduces the total number of surgical appointments, shortens the overall treatment timeline and allows patients to leave the clinic with a provisional crown or prosthesis on the same day.

Not every case is suitable for immediate placement. The decision depends on the condition of the bone at the extraction site, the absence of active infection, and the overall clinical situation. At Asensio Advanced Dentistry in Valencia, every immediate implant case is assessed with a 3D CBCT scan before surgery to confirm that the conditions for immediate placement are met. Dr. Lucía Asensio Romero, specialist in implantology and oral surgery with over 30 years of experience, leads all implant assessments at the clinic.

How immediate dental implants work

In a conventional implant protocol, the tooth is extracted and the socket is left to heal for 8–12 weeks before the implant is placed. Immediate implants bypass this waiting period by placing the titanium post directly into the fresh extraction socket, using the existing bone walls for primary stability. A provisional crown or bridge is often fitted the same day.

Stage Conventional protocol Immediate implant protocol
Extraction Appointment 1 Appointment 1
Healing period 8–12 weeks Not required
Implant placement Appointment 2 Same day as extraction
Provisional crown Separate appointment Same day in suitable cases
Osseointegration + final crown 3–6 months after implant 3–6 months after implant

The osseointegration period — when the implant integrates with the surrounding bone — is the same regardless of protocol. The key advantage of immediate placement is that it eliminates one surgical procedure and reduces the total treatment time by 8–12 weeks.

Who is suitable for immediate dental implants?

Immediate placement requires specific clinical conditions that are confirmed by 3D CBCT imaging before any treatment is planned. Cases where immediate implants are typically suitable include:

Suitable for immediate implants Not suitable — delayed protocol indicated
Adequate bone volume at extraction site Active infection or abscess at the site
No active infection present Significant bone loss around the tooth
Intact bone walls at extraction socket Fractured or compromised socket walls
Good general health, non-smoker preferred Uncontrolled systemic conditions affecting healing

If immediate placement is not indicated, the conventional protocol — extraction followed by healing before implant placement — remains an excellent option. The important thing is that the decision is based on a proper 3D assessment, not assumed before imaging is reviewed.

Immediate implants for dental tourism patients

For patients travelling from the UK for dental treatment, immediate implants offer a particular advantage: when a tooth needs extracting and the conditions are right, the extraction and implant placement can be completed in the same visit — reducing the number of trips to Valencia required. At Asensio, the free first consultation includes a panoramic OPG X-ray that allows Dr. Asensio to assess whether immediate placement is likely to be feasible before the patient travels for surgery.

The osseointegration period of 3–6 months is spent at home in the UK, with the provisional crown in place. The second trip for the definitive crown is typically a short visit of one to two days. See our how dental tourism works page for a full overview of the treatment journey.

Frequently asked questions

Are immediate dental implants as successful as conventional implants?

Yes. Clinical evidence shows that immediate implants placed in suitable cases have success rates equivalent to those of conventional implants — above 95% at 10 years. The critical factor is correct patient selection, which is why 3D imaging before surgery is essential.

Will I have a tooth on the day of extraction?

In many immediate implant cases a provisional crown can be fitted the same day. Whether this is possible depends on the implant stability achieved during surgery — specifically the insertion torque, which indicates how firmly the implant is anchored. Your surgeon will confirm at the time of surgery whether same-day provisionalization is appropriate for your case.

Is the procedure more painful than a standard extraction?

Immediate implant placement is performed under local anaesthesia. Most patients report that the combined extraction and implant procedure is not significantly more uncomfortable than a standard extraction alone. Post-operative discomfort is managed with standard pain relief and typically resolves within a few days.

How long does the procedure take?

A single immediate implant procedure typically takes 45–90 minutes depending on the complexity of the extraction and the implant system used. Combined procedures involving multiple extractions and implants take longer and are planned individually.

How do I find out if I am suitable for an immediate implant?

The first step is a free consultation at Asensio, which includes a panoramic OPG X-ray and clinical assessment. A 3D CBCT scan provides the definitive assessment of bone volume and socket anatomy. Call us on 0800 048 8058, email office@dentalasensio.co.uk, or visit our dental implants abroad page.

Related guides

Cost of Fixed Dental Prosthesis

Fixed Dental Prosthesis Cost: Spain vs the UK

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A fixed dental prosthesis is any dental restoration permanently attached in the mouth — as opposed to a removable denture that the patient takes out to clean. Fixed prostheses include crowns, bridges, implant-supported bridges and full-arch restorations such as All-on-4. For patients missing one or more teeth, a fixed solution restores function and aesthetics permanently without the limitations of removable alternatives.

At Asensio Advanced Dentistry in Valencia, fixed dental prostheses start from £250 for a single crown — significantly less than equivalent treatment at UK private clinics. This guide explains the main types of fixed prosthesis available, what each costs, and how the Spain vs UK cost comparison works for patients travelling from Britain.

Types of fixed dental prosthesis

Fixed prostheses differ primarily in how they are supported — either by existing natural teeth or by dental implants. Implant-supported prostheses are generally superior in longevity and bone preservation, but require adequate bone volume and a surgical procedure. The right option depends on how many teeth are missing, the condition of the remaining teeth and the available bone.

Type Supported by Best for From (Asensio)
Porcelain crown Natural tooth (shaped) Single damaged or root-treated tooth £250
Fixed bridge on teeth Adjacent natural teeth 1–2 missing teeth with healthy neighbours £450+
Single implant + crown Titanium implant Single missing tooth, good bone £750
Implant-supported bridge 2+ implants Multiple consecutive missing teeth £1,200+
All-on-4 full arch 4 implants Full arch replacement, same day teeth £6,480

All prices are for Nobel Biocare or Klockner implant systems where applicable. See the full price breakdown on our prices page.

Fixed prosthesis on teeth vs implants — key differences

Both types of fixed prosthesis provide a stable, permanent result — but they work differently and have different long-term implications for oral health:

Factor Fixed prosthesis on teeth Implant-supported prosthesis
Surgery required No Yes — implant placement
Adjacent teeth affected Yes — must be shaped to support bridge No — implant is independent
Bone preservation No — bone continues to resorb Yes — implant stimulates bone
Longevity 10–15 years typically Lifetime guarantee on implant materials at Asensio

Cost comparison: fixed prosthesis in Spain vs the UK

Treatment Asensio Spain Typical UK cost Saving
Porcelain crown from £250 £700–£1,200 up to £950
Single implant + crown from £750 £2,000–£3,500 up to £2,750
All-on-4 full arch £6,480 £10,000–£20,000 up to £13,500

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a fixed and removable prosthesis?

A fixed prosthesis is permanently attached in the mouth and is not removed by the patient. A removable prosthesis — such as a denture — is taken out for cleaning. Fixed prostheses are generally preferred for function, comfort and long-term oral health, as they do not move during eating or speaking and, when implant-supported, prevent bone resorption.

How long does a fixed dental prosthesis last?

A porcelain crown or bridge on natural teeth typically lasts 10–15 years with good oral hygiene. Implant-supported prostheses last longer — the titanium implant itself carries a lifetime guarantee at Asensio, and the prosthetic restoration may require renewal depending on wear and materials used.

Can I get a fixed prosthesis in one trip to Valencia?

For crowns and bridges on natural teeth, yes — in most cases the preparation and fitting can be completed in two appointments over consecutive days. For implant-supported prostheses, two trips are required: the first for implant placement, and the second (3–6 months later) for the final prosthesis once osseointegration is complete. All-on-4 patients receive fixed provisional teeth on the day of surgery.

How do I find out which type of fixed prosthesis is right for me?

The free first consultation at Asensio includes a panoramic OPG X-ray and a personalised treatment plan with a full cost breakdown. Call us on 0800 048 8058, email office@dentalasensio.co.uk, or visit our dental implants abroad page for more information.

snap-on smile

Snap-on Smile: The Ultimate Guide to a Quick Smile Makeover

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What is Snap-on Smile?

Snap-on Smile is a dental aesthetic treatment that is characterized by being removable. It is made up of a very thin and resistant resin case that is customized to fit your mouth. It is placed over the teeth to change their shape and appearance temporarily and can be removed and inserted anytime you need it.

This technique modifies the appearance of the smile immediately and is very useful in situations in which you need to show off your smile in public, whether at events, talks, or conferences … It is also one of the most requested and definitive solutions to replace missing teeth while we are placing dental implants or the person is undergoing any other dental treatment. With this treatment, the tooth structure is not altered; it simply fits in and out of the patient’s natural teeth because it is reversible. At Dental Asensio, we recommend Snap-on Smile to enjoy your smile temporarily or permanently, as it is the perfect aesthetic solution.

Snap-on Smile procedure

The procedure is virtually painless. In the first consultation, the dentist makes an impression of the teeth, without anaesthesia, which is sent directly to the laboratory. The mould is filled with plaster and then digitized in 3D on a computer.

After this process, the mould is designed with its respective corrections in a digital program and then sent to a 3D printer. The impression is obtained and is taken to a plaster mould called a muffle, to be injected at high pressures into its material and final colour. Finally, the plaster mould is removed for final adjustments and polishing.

In the second consultation, the prosthesis is placed on the patient, and on some occasions, adjustments will be made outside the mouth if necessary.

What are its uses in dental aesthetics?

  • In teeth that present dental stains or tooth colour alterations
  • By being able to make changes in the shape of the teeth, a snap-on smile can be used in those teeth that have an anomaly in form and that affect multiple anterior teeth, and also, in which there is a dental misalignment.
  • In teeth with loss of tooth structure
  • In cases where there are dental absences, the Snap-on Smile improves the aesthetics of the patient.
  • Often used as an alternative to removable prostheses but without palate or hooks
  • It can be used as provisionals in patients who are in the process of treatment or prosthetic rehabilitation with crowns or dental veneers, or also as provisionals in implantology treatments.

 

Advantages of Snap-on Smile

  • It is an alternative to removable prostheses that do not need hooks, palate, adhesives, anaesthesia, or tooth cutting.
  • It is fully reversible and removable.
  • It does not affect the gums or the dental structure of the patient.
  • Does not stain.
  • You can eat with Snap-on Smile, or you can simply take it off to eat.
  • Avoid the need to wear dental prostheses or do dental veneer restorations to achieve a beautiful smile.
  • It does not damage the teeth, since there is no need for dental preparation or grinding.
  • It improves the aesthetics of the smile and allows the specialized dentist to design a new colour, shape, and size for your teeth.
  • With the use of a snap-on smile, the patient does not suffer the anaesthetic effects of the absence of teeth.