What are dental implants?
A dental implant is a titanium metal rod that is placed into the jawbone. It is used to support one or more false teeth.
Are implants safe and how long do they last?
The procedure is very safe and can be done using only local anaesthetic. Over 95% of implants last many years with the correct standard of care.
Can implants be placed next to natural teeth?
Yes any number of teeth can be replaced with implants from one to a complete set. However this depends on the space available and the quality of bone remaining.
A number of special tests are required to assess the amount of bone that is left.
How long does the treatment take?
On average the permanent teeth are fitted around 4-6 months after the implants have been placed. This is to allow the implant to osseointegrate (allow bone to form around the titanium rod).
What about after care?
Your dentist will give you pain relief before the procedure and antibiotics to prevent infection afterwards. Do not rinse the area and only eat soft foods, brushing is still important but not around the implant area. Chlorhexidine mouthwash must be used every day during the first week as a substitute.
Implant Maintenance
Cleaning and good oral hygiene is especially important to maintain a long-lasting successful implant. Your dentist will instruct you how to clean around these implants using special brushes that slot in between the teeth, these should be used every day.
If I had gum disease with my own teeth will it affect the implants?
Yes, unless your oral hygiene is of a good standard. If you keep them clean and don't smoke then they should be fine.
Is the treatment expensive?
In many situations the cost of the treatment is only a little more than the cost of more conventional treatment with crowns and bridges. Over the longer term the implants usually work out to be more cost effective.
Single tooth implant retained restoration: £2000
Bone Graft: £1000
Sinus £ift: £1000
There are many advantages to the implant.
- An implant replacing a single tooth avoids the need to cut down the teeth either side to accommodate the crown or bridges
- Dentures often mean that eating and speaking are impeded, implants are so well anchored that this is never a problem.
Where can I get this treatment?
Mr Matthew Wall is able to provide this treatment option at Roseacre Cottage Dental Practice
The 20% price discount is not applicable to the procedures detailed above
