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Dental Implants

Dental Implants

Dental implants are regarded as the most advantageous solution to missing teeth. Implants are recommended in cases where a patient has lost teeth as a result of trauma, decay or the ageing process. They can have hugely positive implications for confidence and self-esteem, improving both function and aesthetics.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a small titanium post that is gently inserted into the gum and bone. The body’s natural reaction is to fuse to the implant by a process called osseo-integration. After 3-6 months, the implant is solid and surrounded by bone, allowing the dentist to place a crown, bridge or denture on top of it.

How long will it last?

Though nothing in dentistry can last forever, you should consider your implant a permanent solution. We make every effort to carefully treatment plan each case, ensuring optimum results for our patients. We pride ourselves in our success rate, which at over 97% is higher than national and global estimates.

Does it hurt?

No. Dental implants are placed under local anaesthetic so you will not feel anything. After the procedure you may experience some mild discomfort, which many patients compare to having a tooth removed. This can be managed with normal pain relief and should subside within a week or two.

How do I take care of my implant?

Dental implants are an investment into your oral health and should be looked after to ensure their longevity. Just like teeth, implants can gather and collect plaque if they are not cleaned properly, which can lead to bleeding and infection. We will advise you on all aspects of implant care including the correct oral hygiene products and recommending regular hygiene appointments.

Implants can be used to replace single or multiple teeth, as well as to retain dentures. They are unique in design and can fit into small spaces and also where the bone is limited in both height and width.

Before and After

Before                                                                           After

                       

Single Tooth Implants

If sufficient bone is available replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant has several advantages:

  • Teeth either side do not need to be drilled or undergo extra pressure
  • The surrounding bone is supported and prevented from further shrinkage
  • Implants are usually a longer lasting option
  • Implants usually are stronger and support the bite forces better
  • They don’t move around and interfere with speech like dentures

Multiple Tooth Implants

When several teeth are missing it can become difficult to chew properly. Replacing these teeth with dental implants can give the confidence to choose any type of food without worry of a moving denture or uncomfortable sensations.

Quite often if several teeth are missing in the same area a bridge can be firmly attached to the underlying implants as seen in the illustration above.

Implant Retained Dentures (Denture stabilisation)

Dental Implants Treatment

Say goodbye to denture adhesives, sore spots and embarrassing moments with implant-retained dentures that have a bite comparable to natural teeth. With a more secure fit, you can talk, eat and laugh freely without having to worry about what your dentures are doing.

Dental Implants are used like natural tooth roots to support the dentures and hold them in place. Your complete dentures or partial dentures are attached to your new artificial roots, providing you with greater stability than ever before.

Advantages of implant retained dentures include:

  • A stable and secure fit of your dentures to your gums
  • Less denture base covering the roof of your mouth
  • Improved taste and speech with less denture base
  • A bite comparable to your own natural teeth
  • Restored chewing ability with greater enjoyment of food
  • Improved digestion and well being
  • No more pressure points or sore spots