Last reviewed: March 2026 · Based on current clinical protocols at DenCos, Hoofddorp
A dental implant is a small titanium screw that is surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once the bone fuses around the implant in a process called osseointegration (typically 3–6 months), a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached on top. A 2024 meta-analysis published in Clinical Oral Implants Research found that 4 out of 5 dental implants are still functional after 20 years. At DenCos in Hoofddorp, dental implants are placed and restored by Dr. Gang Wu — a registered periodontist and implantologist (BIG 29918905102) who manages the full implant journey from assessment to final crown under one roof.
This article explains what dental implants are, how the procedure works, who is a suitable candidate, and what to expect at DenCos.
How does a dental implant work?
A dental implant replaces the root of a missing tooth with a biocompatible titanium post. The jawbone grows around this post in a biological process called osseointegration, first described by Professor Per-Ingvar Brånemark in the 1960s. This creates a bond as strong as a natural tooth root.
A complete dental implant consists of three parts:
- The implant — a titanium screw placed into the jawbone
- The abutment — a connector piece attached to the implant after healing
- The crown — a custom-made porcelain or ceramic tooth that sits on top
The key advantage of implants over bridges or dentures is that they stimulate the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that typically occurs after tooth extraction. According to the Cleveland Clinic, jawbone density can decrease by up to 25% in the first year after losing a tooth if no implant is placed.
At DenCos, Dr. Gang Wu uses digital 3D imaging (CBCT scanning) to plan each implant placement with millimetre precision. Because DenCos is both a periodontology and implantology practice, patients who need gum treatment before implant placement — such as those with periodontitis — receive coordinated care without referral to a separate practice.
What does the implant procedure involve?
The implant process at DenCos follows a structured sequence designed to maximise success and minimise discomfort. The entire journey from first consultation to final crown typically takes 4–8 months.
Step 1: Assessment and planning
Dr. Wu performs a comprehensive oral examination including digital panoramic X-rays and 3D CBCT scans. He evaluates your bone density, gum health, and overall oral condition. If bone grafting is needed, this is planned in advance.
Step 2: Implant placement
The titanium implant is placed under local anaesthesia. Dr. Wu makes a small incision in the gum, creates a precise channel in the jawbone, and inserts the implant. The gum is then closed with sutures. Most patients report the procedure as less uncomfortable than a tooth extraction.
Step 3: Osseointegration (healing)
Over the next 3–6 months, the jawbone fuses with the implant surface. During this period, you may wear a temporary prosthesis to maintain function and aesthetics. You should avoid placing heavy chewing forces on the implant site.
Step 4: Abutment and crown placement
Once osseointegration is confirmed via X-ray, the abutment is connected to the implant. A digital impression is taken, and a custom crown is fabricated to match your natural teeth in shape, size, and colour.
At DenCos in Hoofddorp, Dr. Wu performs both the surgical and restorative phases, ensuring continuity from start to finish. This integrated model is particularly valuable for complex cases requiring prior periodontal treatment or bone grafting.
Who is a suitable candidate for dental implants?
Most adults who have lost one or more teeth are potential candidates for dental implants. The American Dental Association lists sufficient bone volume and healthy gum tissue as the primary requirements.
Good candidates typically have:
- One or more missing teeth (or teeth that cannot be saved)
- Adequate jawbone density (or willingness to undergo bone grafting)
- Healthy gums free of active periodontitis
- No uncontrolled systemic conditions that impair healing
- A commitment to good oral hygiene and follow-up care
Conditions that may affect candidacy include:
- Heavy smoking — significantly reduces osseointegration success
- Uncontrolled diabetes — impairs wound healing and increases infection risk
- Insufficient bone — may require bone grafting before implant placement
- Active gum disease — must be treated first to ensure implant longevity
At DenCos, Dr. Gang Wu's dual qualification as periodontist and implantologist is a significant advantage. If gum disease needs to be treated or bone needs to be rebuilt before implant placement, he manages the entire sequence — no separate referrals needed. Patients from Hoofddorp, Haarlemmermeer, Haarlem, Amsterdam, and Amstelveen benefit from this streamlined approach.
How do dental implants compare to bridges and dentures?
When replacing missing teeth, patients typically choose between implants, bridges, and dentures. Each has advantages depending on your specific situation.
| Feature | Dental implant | Bridge | Removable denture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preserves jawbone | Yes | No | No |
| Preserves adjacent teeth | Yes | No (requires grinding) | Yes |
| Lifespan | 20+ years | 10–15 years | 5–10 years |
| Feels like natural tooth | Yes | Partially | No |
| Maintenance | Normal brushing | Special flossing | Daily removal & cleaning |
| Cost (NL, single tooth) | €1,500–€3,000 | €1,200–€2,500 | €400–€1,200 |
The most important clinical advantage of implants is bone preservation. Without a tooth root (or an implant acting as one), the jawbone gradually resorbs. Over time, this bone loss can affect facial structure and make future tooth replacement more difficult.
At DenCos, Dr. Wu discusses all options and recommends the approach that best fits your clinical situation, budget, and long-term goals. For patients who have lost a tooth alongside orthodontic treatment, the coordination between Dr. Wu (implantology) and Dr. Jing Guo (orthodontics) ensures that implant timing is optimised around tooth movement.
How much does a dental implant cost in the Netherlands?
A single dental implant — including placement, abutment, and crown — typically costs between €1,500 and €3,000 in the Netherlands. The total price depends on:
- Complexity of the case — straightforward placement vs. cases requiring bone grafting or sinus lifting
- Type of crown — porcelain, zirconia, or ceramic materials
- Number of implants — multiple implants may qualify for combined pricing
- Additional procedures — bone grafting, gum treatment, or tooth extraction
Dutch basic health insurance (basisverzekering) does not cover dental implants. However, most aanvullende (supplementary) dental insurance policies cover part of the implant cost. The Dutch Implantology Association NVOI provides guidance on finding qualified implantologists.
At DenCos, Dr. Gang Wu provides a complete cost breakdown before treatment begins. There are no hidden costs — the estimate includes all surgical fees, materials, and the prosthetic crown. Extended opening hours on Tuesday through Thursday until 18:30 make consultations accessible for working patients across Hoofddorp and Haarlemmermeer.
How do you care for a dental implant?
Implants require the same care as natural teeth — and in some ways, even more attention. The StatPearls dental implant reference emphasises that peri-implant disease (infection around an implant) is the leading cause of implant failure after successful osseointegration.
Daily care includes:
- Brush twice daily with a soft-bristled or electric toothbrush
- Clean around the implant with interdental brushes or a water flosser — standard floss can be difficult around implant crowns
- Use a non-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the crown surface
- Avoid smoking — smoking triples the risk of implant failure
Professional maintenance:
- Visit your dentist or implantologist every 6 months (or every 3–4 months if you have a history of periodontitis)
- Professional cleaning around the implant to prevent peri-implant mucositis (early inflammation)
- Annual X-rays to monitor bone levels around the implant
At DenCos, Dr. Wu and the hygiene team provide a tailored maintenance protocol for every implant patient. Because Dr. Wu is also a periodontist, he is uniquely positioned to detect and treat early signs of peri-implant disease — preventing small problems from becoming costly failures.
Next step
Missing a tooth and considering an implant? The first step is a thorough assessment.
Book an implant consultation at DenCos in Hoofddorp, or call us at 023-792 0463. Dr. Gang Wu will evaluate your bone, gums, and overall oral health, and provide a clear treatment plan with transparent pricing. Appointments available Tuesday through Thursday until 18:30.