October 24, 2026
Your replacement tooth can be immune to cavities and still need careful cleaning. The reassuring part is straightforward: a dental implant cannot develop tooth decay. The more interesting part lies beneath it, where living gum and bone help keep an artificial tooth in place. Protecting that connection gives your daily routine a different purpose.
A natural tooth contains tissues that plaque acids can damage. Plaque is a sticky bacterial film; when its bacteria use sugars from food and drink, they produce acids that attack tooth enamel. Over time, that damage can become a cavity. The American Dental Association explains this process of tooth decay.
An implant has different building materials. The fixture, usually titanium, sits in the jaw in place of a root. A connector called an abutment joins it to the visible replacement crown. Neither the fixture nor its artificial crown contains natural tooth tissue for dental caries to destroy.
| Part of your smile | What still needs protecting |
|---|---|
| Implant fixture | The living tissues that support the artificial root |
| Implant crown | The restoration, which can chip or need repair |
| Neighbouring natural tooth | Its tooth tissue, which can still develop decay |
A crown on an implant also differs from a crown covering a natural tooth: the latter still has tooth tissue underneath. When someone mentions decay around a crown, knowing what supports that crown changes the explanation. Replacing one tooth does not make its natural neighbours immune to cavities, and cleaning between them remains worthwhile.
Below the gum, the implant's stability depends on something the body does. During healing, bone grows around the implant and forms a stable connection with its surface. Dentists call this osseointegration. The word sounds technical, but the important detail is simple: living bone helps hold the artificial root in place.
The implant therefore depends on more than the strength of its material. A titanium post can resist dental caries while the tissue supporting it remains vulnerable to disease. The surface you can see and the support hidden beneath it need attention for different reasons. Cleaning the crown brings the brush close to the gum, where plaque removal helps protect the tissues around the replacement.
An implant cannot develop a cavity, but the living gum and bone around it still need daily care and professional attention.
Maida Smiles Team
That biological connection develops through healing, and your dentist judges how treatment should progress in your circumstances. There is no single healing timetable that applies to every mouth. The artificial root has not become a natural tooth; bone has formed the support that allows it to carry a replacement.
This also changes how we interpret the word survival. An implant can remain in place while the crown above it needs repair, or while surrounding tissues need treatment. Survival describes its continued presence; complication-free success asks a different question. Neither phrase should become a promise that you will never need further care.
At the edge of that living support, the replacement meets the gum. That small area brings the artificial and biological parts together. A crown that looks sound in the mirror tells you little about the tissues beneath it, where plaque can still accumulate.
Plaque does not need to make a hole in the implant to cause trouble. Bacteria can accumulate around its base and beneath the gum-line, irritating the surrounding tissues. The implant material remains intact while inflammation develops beside it. This is why a cavity-free replacement still belongs in a preventive care routine.
Peri-implant mucositis means inflammation in the soft tissues around the implant, without loss of supporting bone. Caught early, it can be reversible with appropriate care. If disease progresses to peri-implantitis, inflammation is accompanied by loss of the bone supporting the implant. The American Academy of Periodontology explains these two forms of peri-implant disease.
Progression is possible, not inevitable. The reason for acting early is that an inflamed gum and lost bone are different problems. Treating inflammation at the soft-tissue stage gives us an opportunity to intervene before supporting bone is lost. Once bone is involved, treatment becomes more complex and must match the extent of the disease.
Look for bleeding during brushing or cleaning between teeth, redness, swelling, persistent bad breath or an unpleasant taste. Contact your dentist promptly if these appear, or if the implant or replacement tooth feels loose. These changes need assessment; they do not tell you which condition is present. Do not wait for pain, because its absence does not establish that the tissues are healthy.
A professional examination checks the tissues around the implant, with appropriate X-rays to assess bone support. You cannot make that distinction by looking at the crown alone. Earlier detection improves the prospects for treatment, which is why professional reviews remain useful even when eating feels comfortable and the replacement looks unchanged.
If you are considering dental implants in London, ask how the finished tooth will be cleaned. The shape of the restoration should allow access for home care. Planning needs to consider the bone and gums as well as the visible result, with an explanation of who will provide ongoing reviews.
At Maida Smiles in West London, our founder, principal dentist and implant dentist Dr Pedro Gutierres qualified in dentistry in 2006 and completed his Master's in Implant Dentistry at Warwick University in 2010. We use oral examination, digital scans and X-rays for personalised implant planning, and assess suspected peri-implant disease clinically and with radiographs. Ask us how that plan will support cleaning and aftercare.
Once an implant has healed, the practical aim is to remove plaque from accessible surfaces and around the gum-line. A dentist or hygienist can demonstrate the right approach for your particular crown or bridge. If you cannot work out how to reach an area around your replacement, ask your dental team to show you. The demonstration should relate to the restoration in your mouth and the cleaning aids you can use.
The NHS advice on keeping teeth clean explains brushing and interdental cleaning. For a fresh surgical site, follow your treating clinician's instructions rather than applying a routine intended for a healed implant.
Your review plan should also account for a history of gum disease, smoking or diabetes, which can increase the risk of peri-implant problems. Tell your dental team about these factors so prevention fits your circumstances. There is no universal appointment interval that suits everyone.
If you are looking for an implant dentist in Maida Vale, book a consultation with our team. Bring your questions about cleaning access and ongoing reviews. We can discuss what the proposed restoration would mean for your home care, alongside the treatment itself.
4,8
I could not be more satisfied with my experience at Maida Smiles - A special mention to Dr Gurteurez who is one of the most friendly and professional dentists I have ever met
Adam
I had my first visit and the team was very warm, caring and professional. The online booking platform makes it very easy to arrange your appointment. Doctor Pedro made me feel comfortable despite this being my first appointment since Covid. He is incredibly knowledgeable and offers you the best treatment for your specific condition. I would highly recommend them
Gian Paolo Ziletti
Professional. Friendly. Informative. Maida Smiles offers great dental services including cleanings, oral surgery and realignment. I feel very lucky to have them so close by. I had an appointment just this week that was quick, thorough and safe.
Emily Chmura
Being very nervous about using dentists after a terrible experience when I was younger, I came to Maida Smiles and loved the calm patient demeanour of Pedro. You can clearly see Pedro and the team take pride in what they do and are perfectionists. The whole experience was great and I will never go to another dentist again.
Reena Nathwani
Delighted with the outcome of my treatment by Pedro. Meticulous attention to detail explaining exactly how the procedure would be carried out from first consultation to completion backed up with supporting guidance notes. Clearly an expert in his field and someone who cares passionately about the outcomes for his patients. Highly recommended.
George Jones
I loved my first visit to Maida Smile Dental Clinic. The staff member at reception was very warm, welcoming and professional. My dentist, Priscilla, and her assistant were fantastic. I have quite sensitive teeth near my gums and I can find the probing and investigation quite uncomfortable during a consultation, but this wasn’t the case at all. I didn’t experience discomfort and felt in very safe hands. This also applied to the hygienist work. I didn’t even have to ask Priscilla to avoid using the ultra sound cleaner on the sensitive areas of my teeth. I’m looking forward to going back, and that’s not often you can say that about going to the dentist!
Simone Gibson
Since I first had the luck to be recommended and book an appointment with Dr. Pedro Gutierres over 8 years ago, I have never trusted my dental health nor my family’s to anyone else. It’s very hard to find a dentist who ticks all the boxes and even goes beyond any expectations you may have, from service, sympathy, professionalism, and expertise, etc., 5 stars are not enough to rate him. I was so happy when he opened his own clinic and surrounded himself with the best professionals you can find, I cannot recommend Maida Smiles Dental Clinic enough.
Sofia Gouveia
Maida Smiles Dental Clinic is excellent!! The staff is very friendly, professional and always aiming for the customers best experience! A special thank you to Dr. Pedro Gutierres who is truly amazing. I am absolutely satisfied with the results and highly recommend this great dental clinic!
Ana Cruz
Dr. Pedro Gutierres is the best Implantologist I have come across. His work is amazing and of very high quality! I would highly recommend him and Maida Smiles to all my friends and family. If you want the perfect smile this is the place to go.
Blossom
“Pedro was so patient and professional throughout my treatment for my implants.. I chose to have my treatment with a local anaesthetic rather than any sedation and have a very bad gag reflex when anything touches the back of my throat. His patience throughout the experience was wonderful, completely putting me at ease and he also gave me a technique to help me in the future. I have seen him for my follow up and fully intend to book an annual visit in 2020. which is no small thing as I live 60 miles away.I can thoroughly recommend him for any treatment.”
Denise Gilbert
I was very nervous to pull my ingrown wisdom tooth. Dr Pedro Guiterres made me feel really comfortable and the job was completed very professionally. It didn’t take long at all and I didn’t feel any pain. I would definitely recommend his service at this practice.
Jihan Daoud
From the day I made my first appointment. The team at Maida smile were amazing. They didn’t treat me like a customer but more like family. They have been great in every step in FINALLY GETTING MY DREAM SMILE from the receptionist to my dentist Pedro Laranjeira I can’t thank you enough and of course Pedro Laranjeira beautiful wife…… they are very professional and understand that I had to change my appointment now and then for work commitments and they were very understand. I will defo recommend them 100% not forgetting how chic the office is
Tracy Mensah
I was very nervous about having a dental implant but was immediately put at ease by Dr Pedro Gutierres. The procedure was explained in full and the care both during and after treatment has been of the highest standard. I received advice on how to look after my implant and have had no problems. I highly recommend.
Dawn Briggs
I had 7 implants installed by Dr Pedro Gutierres, including one which required a bone graft. In my 70 years I’ve had some bad experiences with dental treatment so it takes a lot for me to relax but, from my initial consultation, through to the end of the treatment, I had complete trust in Pedro’s expertise: preparations for the treatment and after-care were extremely thorough and fully explained, the treatment itself was surprisingly endurable (considering what was involved) and the implants have made a major difference to my life. If you are considering implants then I would whole-heartedly and sincerely recommend Pedro for this work.
Russ Hickman
I couldn’t recommend Maida Smiles enough: the care, attention to detail and the way Dentists and Nurses made sure I felt comfortable and safe throughout the treatments was incredible. Dr Pedro explained the treatments in detail to me and I have never felt under pressure to proceed… but I am very glad I did as I am happy and confident to smile again!
Mariana Pinheiro
Highly recommend this place to anybody looking for a friendly and trustworthy practice with an incredibly friendly and patient staff. Dr Pedro has been one of the best dentists I’ve ever had, he made me feel comfortable and were very knowledgeable in explaining every step of what he was doing and answering all of my questions. Amazing thorough the procedure, excellent communication, superb and professional treatment. I hope they keep it this way for a long time.
Joas Souza
Dr Pedro is a very good, confident and experienced professional. I’ve known him for some years now and always felt well cared for, either for small or bigger treatments.The facilities of the clinic are amazing and all the staff are very friendly. Highly recommended.”
Nelson Cafruni
I went to different clinics before, and nobody could really convince me until Maida Smiles did. The team here makes you comfortable , shows you different options and different budgets , and doesn't try to make you go only for one plan. I felt that the team was knowledgeable and wanted to help me , so that's why I decided to start
Diogo
I was referred to Dr. Pedro who did such a wonderful job with my teeth. The staff was extremely professional, they put you at ease, and it just made the whole experience easier. I've never looked back since
Theresa
"I told him, 'I want beautiful teeth, beautiful but natural, I don't want fake looking teeth.' Now I smile, I talk... it just makes you more confident. If you wear a beautiful nice suit... you have beautiful teeth, then it's like a perfect."
Louca
"I went to my hygienist a little while ago, and she said to me they were the best implants that she'd ever seen and she would never have known that they weren't my real teeth."
Sharon
Dr. Pedro explained the process of Invisalign to me. It sounded easy, it was quite a quick process, and the end result is my teeth moved back, so I'm quite happy.
Soula
I feel like I've not just developed a professional relationship with my dentist and the staff... they become more like friends as well, because of the kind of compassion and sympathy that they give you during treatment.
Alvin
"After a friend recommended the clinic, I was referred to Dr. Pedro, who did such a wonderful job with my teeth. The staff was extremely professional; they put you at ease, and it just made the whole experience easier. They have more than met my expectations. I have to have a few more implants, and I'm not afraid anymore. Now, finally, I can live again."
Lesley
"After not having a great experience with previous dental treatments, I was desperate for someone that I trusted. I broke a tooth, and even before I saw Dr. Pedro, he reassured me that I was going to be fine. He made me feel very comfortable and at ease. It was an amazing experience, from not only Dr. Pedro but also all the staff in the clinic, and I would definitely recommend [them] ".
Mariana
I chose Maida Smiles because of the reviews and a friend who was really happy with the results. The results definitely met my expectations. My expressions are much more smooth than before and it really makes the difference
Carolina
I’m very grateful for the quick and efficient service I received when I needed an emergency appointment. The staff were kind and accommodating, and the dentist provided clear, helpful advice that made a real difference. The whole experience was reassuring. Highly recommend their professionalism and expertise!
Safiya Guled
I am always anxious when having to see the dentist and this was one of my first experiences with Maida Smiles. The dentist, Benedict Harrison was very reassuring and immediately put me at ease. He was quite lucid in his explanations of what had to be done, etcetera, and is making good progress with the ongoing treatment. Also, the rest of the staff were friendly and just plain nice.
John Jacobs
Wow wow Dr Claudia is the best dentist in London, my kid adores her and it is always a pleasant visit. Can’t recommend her enough
Bel Cohn
I am delighted with the results of my replacement veneers.
Dr Benedict Harrison was very good at talking me through the whole process and keeping me informed during the treatment if there were any issues - which there weren’t.
He has a charming demeanour which is an added advantage in a dentist, who I think we all agree are not our favourite people, overall a 5 star experience.
Karen Shepherd
I went to the Maida Smiles Clinic for the first time and had the most wonderful experience! I am dentist phobic but strangely left the place with a big smile on my face (literally!). The receptionist was super kind, Susan was impeccable and very helpful, and I had my appointment with the most amazing dentist Dr Mafalda Vilhena. Couldn’t recommend her enough. She explains the whole procedure and is very rigorous in her work. Congratulations to Dr Pedro Gutierres for creating such an excellent working environment and to all the team. I will be back and bringing my family along and we don’t even live in Maida Vale. Thank you for such an impeccable job on my teeth and for taking my fear of dentists away. Note: they don’t cover NHS, only private bookings or with insurance.
Maria Monteiro
Address: 207-209 Sutherland Ave, London W9 1RU. Get directions.
Paid parking is available using ParkBee on Lanark Road (the road right next to the practice). For public transport users, we are a two-minute walk from Maida Vale tube station.
