What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a titanium screw that is placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. Once it fuses with the bone (a process called osseointegration), a custom-made crown is attached on top. The result looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth — including when biting and chewing. Unlike dentures, an implant is fixed permanently in place.
Dental implants are considered the gold standard for replacing missing teeth because they preserve the jawbone, do not require grinding down adjacent teeth (as a bridge does), and can last a lifetime with proper care.
Dental implant costs in Peshawar
A dental implant has three components, each with its own cost:
- Implant post (titanium screw): PKR 30,000–80,000 — varies by brand (international vs local)
- Abutment (connector between post and crown): PKR 10,000–25,000
- Crown (visible tooth): PKR 25,000–80,000 depending on material (zirconia, porcelain-fused-to-metal)
Total cost per tooth in Peshawar: approximately PKR 80,000–200,000.
Additional costs that may apply:
- Bone graft (if insufficient bone): PKR 30,000–80,000
- Sinus lift (for upper back teeth): PKR 40,000–100,000
- Tooth extraction (if needed beforehand): PKR 2,000–20,000
- Consultation and imaging (CBCT/OPG): PKR 3,000–10,000
For patients in the DHA Peshawar or Askari corridor, DentalTouch provides a full itemised treatment plan with costs before any commitment is made.
The dental implant procedure — step by step
Step 1: Consultation and imaging
A thorough assessment includes a clinical examination, dental X-rays, and often a CBCT scan (3D cone beam CT) to assess bone volume and density, and to plan the exact position of the implant. This is when suitability is confirmed and costs are estimated.
Step 2: Tooth extraction (if needed)
If the tooth is still present and needs removal, it may be extracted at the same appointment as the implant placement (immediate implant) or at a separate appointment with time allowed for the socket to heal (typically 6–12 weeks).
Step 3: Implant placement
The titanium post is placed into the jawbone under local anaesthesia. The gum is sutured closed over or around the implant. Most patients feel pressure and vibration during the surgery but report minimal pain. The procedure typically takes 60–90 minutes per implant.
Step 4: Osseointegration
Over the following 2–4 months, the titanium post fuses with the surrounding bone — a process called osseointegration. This is what gives an implant its exceptional stability. During this period, a temporary crown or removable option may be worn to fill the gap aesthetically.
Step 5: Crown placement
Once the implant has integrated, an abutment is attached, and a custom-fabricated permanent crown is fitted. The crown is matched to the shape and shade of your other teeth. Bite is adjusted for comfort, and the implant is complete.
Implants vs dentures vs bridges
| Feature | Implant | Bridge | Removable denture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feels like a natural tooth | Yes | Close | No |
| Preserves jawbone | Yes | No | No |
| Adjacent teeth affected | No | Yes (ground down) | No |
| Lifespan | 20+ years | 10–15 years | 5–10 years |
| Cost in Peshawar | PKR 80,000–200,000 | PKR 30,000–80,000 | PKR 20,000–60,000 |
Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
Most healthy adults who have a missing tooth are candidates. The key requirements:
- Sufficient bone volume and density in the jaw (or willingness to undergo bone grafting)
- Healthy gums — active gum disease must be treated first
- Good general health — diabetes, if present, should be well controlled
- Non-smoker or willingness to stop smoking — smoking significantly increases implant failure rates
- Commitment to good oral hygiene and regular dental visits
Dental implants for overseas Pakistanis
Dental tourism is significant in Peshawar's implant market. Several clinics — including DentalTouch — have treated patients who specifically travel to Pakistan for dental implants because the cost is a fraction of UK or European pricing. A full-mouth implant case that would cost £20,000–£40,000 in the UK can be done in Peshawar for PKR 1.5–4 million (roughly £4,000–£12,000).
DentalTouch is located on Nasir Bagh Road, next to DHA Peshawar and Askari — convenient for patients based in those neighbourhoods or visiting family there. The clinic can structure treatment across a visit window. Contact the clinic in advance to discuss your schedule.