Dental Implants

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants can be used to replace one or more teeth, for instance if you have lost a tooth in a sporting accident. They can be an alternative to a removable denture, or bridgework. Some people find removable dentures uncomfortable, particularly for eating and speaking. Conventional bridgework often involves cutting the teeth either side of the missing tooth, while dental implants can provide a fixed tooth without involving the neighbouring teeth.

Implants can also help if you have uncomfortable or wobbly dentures. There are various methods of using the implants to secure dentures, using clasps or bars to fix the denture to the implant. It will then fit securely, giving you the confidence to smile, speak and enjoy your favourite foods again. You can remove the denture for cleaning as normal.

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is a small post made of titanium that replaces the root of a missing tooth. It is placed into the jaw and the bone attaches to the implant. Once integrated, we can fasten crowns, bridges or dentures to this artificial root. 

Do implants hurt?

There is some discomfort for a few days after placement, but this is usually managed easily with standard pain relief such as paracetamol, or ibuprofen.

How long does treatment take?

We can give you a provisional timetable before treatment begins. The implant has to bond to the bone, this can take between three and six months. During this time you will have a temporary restoration. If you have complete dentures, then these can be worn throughout the healing period once they have been modified after surgery. 

Are implants safe?

Implants are made from materials accepted by the tissues of the body. Present day implants have a very high success rate. Like natural teeth they will last well as long as they are well looked after. 

Is the treatment 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.