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DENTAL IMPLANTS
A PATIENT'S GUIDE TO DENTAL IMPLANTS
Dental implants are a common procedure used to replace missing teeth. They are small titanium posts that are surgically inserted into the jawbone and act as a substitute tooth root. Your bone will grow around the implant, and when the implant is incorporated, a replacement tooth can be attached to the post, creating a natural-looking restoration. We can also attach crowns, bridges, or dentures to this artificial root. Implants are made from materials accepted by the tissues of the body and have a very high success rate. Like natural teeth, they will last well, as long as they are well looked after, including inspection by a qualified dentist during your regular checkups.
HOW LONG DOES IMPLANT TREATMENT TAKE?
Before starting treatment, your dentist will provide a provisional timetable. It typically takes three to six months for the implant to bond to bone, during which time your restoration will be temporary. If you have complete dentures, they can be modified after surgery and can be worn throughout the healing period.
DO DENTAL IMPLANTS HURT?
Implants are placed with only a minor operation, usually carried out with a local anaesthetic. Typically, a few stitches are required, and these are be removed after a few days. Most people report only minor discomfort, similar to that experienced after a simple tooth extraction. Mild pain is easily controlled by painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.
ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS EXPENSIVE?
In most cases the cost of an implant is a little higher than bridgework options, but the expense must be evaluated against the many advantages of implant treatment. With proper care, your dental implant can last a lifetime.
WHY DO DENTISTS RECOMMEND DENTAL IMPLANTS?
Implants are a common technique used to replace missing teeth, and your require only good health and available supporting bone to qualify for a dental implant. A dentist may recommend dental implants for a few reasons. Implants provide a more secure and permanent solution than other options. Unlike bridges and dentures, which are removable, dental implants are secured in place and can last a lifetime with proper care. Dental implants look and function just like real teeth, allowing patients to eat and speak with ease. They also help to preserve the jawbone and prevent bone loss, which can occur with missing teeth. For those who are not suitable candidates for dental implants, there are alternatives. For more advice, please contact us to book an initial consultation with one of our experienced dentists.
WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES TO DENTAL IMPLANTS?
Dental implants are often used to replace one or more lost teeth. Some people find removable dentures uncomfortable, particularly for eating and speaking, and therefore prefer a permanent dental implant. By taking good care of your teeth through daily brushing and flossing as well as regular dental check-ups, the implant screw could last a lifetime. The crown may need replacement after 10 to 15 years, due to wear and tear. A dental bridge is another alternative used to replace missing teeth, but conventional bridgework often involves cutting the teeth either side of the missing tooth. The benefit of implants are that it provides a fixed tooth without altering neighbouring healthy teeth. Implants can also solve the issue of uncomfortable or wobbly dentures, for instance, by using clasps or bars to fix the denture to the implant. Thereafter, the denture will then fit securely, giving you the confidence to smile, speak and enjoy your favourite foods again. The denture will still be removable for cleaning as normal.