Missing a tooth, or several, affects more than your smile. It can change how you eat, speak and feel in everyday life. Dental implants are one of the most reliable ways to replace missing teeth, and at Melrose Advanced Dentistry in Melrose, Johannesburg we offer them at a clear, upfront price: R13 000 per implant, with in-house sedation by our medical sedationist for all surgical implant procedures.
This guide answers the questions patients ask us most often about dental implants: what they are, what they cost, how long treatment takes, what recovery is like and whether they are right for you.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post placed in the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once it has healed and fused with the bone, a crown, bridge or denture is attached to it, so the replacement looks and works much like a natural tooth.
The three main parts are the implant post (the artificial root), the abutment (the connector) and the crown (the visible, tooth-shaped cap). Because the post sits in the bone, an implant does not rely on neighbouring teeth for support.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost in South Africa?
Cost is usually the first thing patients want to know, so here is our pricing in full:
| Treatment | Our fee |
|---|---|
| Dental implant | R13 000 |
| Bone grafting (only if required) | Additional R5 000 to R10 000, depending on the complexity of the bone defect |
| Sedation for surgical implant procedures | Included, provided by our in-house medical sedationist |
Prices are correct as at November 2026 and may change. Your exact quote is confirmed after your consultation and scan.
What affects the final cost of a dental implant?
- The number of implants you need
- Whether bone grafting is required, and how complex the bone defect is
- Whether a tooth needs to be extracted first
- The type of crown or restoration fitted on the implant
At Melrose Advanced Dentistry, you receive a written, itemised quote before any treatment begins, so there are no surprises. Ask us about payment options.
Does medical aid cover dental implants? Cover varies widely between schemes and plans. Many cover implants only partially or not at all, so we recommend checking with your scheme before treatment. Our team will assist in verifying with your medical aid the value to which they cover, should they cover the entire cost of the procedure we will claim directly on your behalf.
Dental Implants With Sedation: Why It Matters
Fear of the dentist keeps many people from getting the treatment they need. That is why every surgical implant procedure at our practice includes sedation at no extra charge, administered by our in-house medical sedationist.
Sedation is designed to keep you relaxed and comfortable throughout the procedure. Together with local anaesthetic, it means most patients feel at ease during surgery. Your sedationist will assess your medical history beforehand and monitor you throughout.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most healthy adults with a fully developed jaw can be considered for implants. You need enough healthy bone and gum tissue to hold the implant. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, gum disease and heavy smoking can affect healing, so we assess these first. Many can be managed or treated beforehand.
Not sure whether you qualify? A consultation and scan will give you a clear answer.
What Happens at Your First Implant Consultation?
At your first visit to our dental implant practice in Melrose, Johannesburg, we will:
- Review your medical and dental history
- Examine your mouth, teeth and gums
- Take X-rays or a 3D scan (CBCT) to check bone volume and the position of nerves and sinuses
- Complete a 3D oral scan
- Explain your treatment plan, timeline and written cost estimate
You will leave knowing exactly what is involved and what it costs.
How Long Does the Dental Implant Process Take?
Treatment typically takes 3 to 9 months from start to finish. The implant needs time to fuse with the jawbone (a process called osseointegration), which usually takes 3 to 6 months. If you need a tooth extracted or a bone graft first, the process takes longer. In some suitable cases, a temporary tooth can be fitted on the same day as the implant.
Does Getting a Dental Implant Hurt?
The procedure is done under local anaesthetic, and with our in-house sedation, you will be relaxed throughout. Afterwards, expect some soreness, swelling or bruising for a few days, which is usually manageable with the pain relief your dentist recommends.
What Is Dental Implant Recovery Like?
Most people return to normal activities within a day or two. During recovery:
- Stick to soft foods for the first week or so
- Avoid smoking, as it slows healing and raises the risk of failure
- Keep the area clean exactly as instructed
- Attend all follow-up visits
Contact your dentist if pain or swelling gets worse after the first few days.
Do I Need a Bone Graft for a Dental Implant?
Sometimes. If a tooth has been missing for years, the jawbone can shrink over time, and there may not be enough bone to hold an implant securely. A bone graft rebuilds that support, and a scan will show whether you need one.
Bone grafting is an additional fee of R5 000 to R10 000, depending on the complexity of the bone defect. A small defect costs less to rebuild than a larger or more complex one. We will confirm whether you need a graft, and the exact cost, at your consultation.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
The titanium implant itself can last many years, often decades, with good care. The crown on top may need replacing sooner because of normal wear. Longevity depends mainly on oral hygiene, regular check-ups and whether you smoke.
How Do I Care for a Dental Implant?
Treat it like a natural tooth: brush twice daily, clean between your teeth with floss or interdental brushes, and keep up regular check-ups and professional cleanings. Implants cannot get cavities, but the gums around them can still become infected, so hygiene matters just as much.
What Is Peri-Implantitis?
Peri-implantitis is an infection and inflammation of the gum and bone around an implant, similar to gum disease around natural teeth. Early signs include bleeding, redness, swelling or a bad taste. Caught early, it is treatable, which is another reason regular check-ups matter.
What Are the Risks of Dental Implants?
Like any surgery, implants carry risks, including infection, failure of the implant to integrate with the bone and, rarely, damage to nearby structures. Failure rates are low when patients are carefully assessed and follow aftercare instructions. We explain the risks specific to your case before you agree to treatment.
Dental Implants vs Bridges vs Dentures
| Dental implants | Bridges | Dentures | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Relies on neighbouring teeth | No | Yes, they must be filed down | No |
| Helps preserve jawbone | Yes | No | No |
| Feels like natural teeth | Closest | Good | Can shift and feel less stable |
| Cost | Higher | Moderate | Lowest |
| Time to complete | Longest | Faster | Fast |
The right choice depends on your budget, bone health and preferences. We will talk you through all three options honestly.
Can I Replace a Full Set of Teeth With Implants?
Yes. Instead of one implant per tooth, a full arch can often be supported by a smaller number of strategically placed implants (for example, “all-on-4” style approaches). Whether this suits you depends on your bone structure and goals, and we will assess this at your consultation.
Why Choose Melrose Advanced Dentistry for Dental Implants in Melrose, Johannesburg?
- Transparent pricing: R3500 consult. R13 000 per implant, with any bone grafting quoted upfront
- In-house sedation from our medical sedationist on every surgical implant procedure
- Everything under one roof: consultation, scan, surgery, sedation and follow-up care
- A written, itemised quote before treatment begins
Based in Melrose, Johannesburg.
Book Your Dental Implant Consultation in Melrose, Johannesburg
Ready to find out whether dental implants are right for you? Call us on 072 200 1774, email reception@advanced-dentistry.co.za or visit advanced-dentistry.co.za to arrange your consultation.