Choosing to have implant treatment is a big decision, even life changing and something worth discussing with friends and family. If you are thinking about getting dental implants, it is essential that you come in for a consultation where your suitability for this particular treatment can be thoroughly assessed. This includes a detailed dental examination with x-rays to determine what kind of treatment, if any, is required in preparation for implants, such as hygiene cleaning or bone grafting. The initial consultation gives you a chance to meet with the team and have any questions answered.
Technology has integrated itself in all aspects of modern day life, and Dentistry is no different. We have made significant investment into adopting the use of the latest and most sophisticated technologies, which will offer you the highest standard of cutting edge dental care.
We like to ensure that you are comfortable with your decision and we are also happy to answer questions which arise after the consultation when you have had time to consider the process.
Our principle aim is that you receive top quality care from the dental team throughout your treatment on your way to your new smile.
Dental implants are small, titanium screws placed directly in the jaw bone to act as anchors for replacement teeth in the form of crowns, bridges or permanent dentures. Implants act much like natural tooth roots, and have several advantages over other tooth replacement solutions.
When natural teeth are lost, over time the bone beneath them may begin to deteriorate or resorb. This can lead to a sunken look to the face and can make unsecured dentures become loose and uncomfortable. Even one missing tooth can cause problems, as surrounding teeth may try to move to fill in the gap, becoming crooked and difficult to clean, which can lead to further dental health problems. Dental implants help to prevent this from happening.
Secured dentures are much more stable than unsecured, removable dentures. There is no need to worry about denture slippage, and you will be able to bite and chew a full range of foods, meaning you won’t need to have a restricted diet. Dentures secured by dental implants also provide a better sense of taste than full, unsecured dentures, because the top of your mouth is not covered.
Dental implants can be used to replace one, several or all missing teeth. For one missing tooth you will need one dental implant, but this ratio does not always stay the same for several missing teeth – it is often possible to attach several replacement teeth to a single dental implant.
Our dental team are highly experienced in implantology, and are happy to discuss dental implant options with you. In most cases the procedure is carried out under local anesthetic. Your dentist will place the required number of implants in your jaw, with an abutment on top on to which replacement teeth will be attached. In some cases, particularly with secured dentures, replacement teeth can be fitted immediately, while in other cases a healing period of up to three months is necessary. During this time the implants will integrate with the bone and surrounding tissue to provide a solid base for your permanent replacement teeth.