Teeth first, titanium later
Dental Implants
Dental Implants
Dental implants are used to replace lost or missing teeth. They can be used to support crowns that replace a single missing tooth, bridges to replace several teeth or even dentures supported on implants. There is a wealth of evidence and studies that show that dental implants are safe and effective ways of replacing missing teeth.
They may also be an option for teeth that cannot be saved and where alternative options like a bridge are not ideal. Remember, teeth first, titanium later! Specialist periodontists are in the best position to help determine if teeth can first be saved before considering dental implants.
Personalised Treatment Planning
Before any treatment, we carry out a comprehensive assessment of your oral health to make sure you are suitable. We use 3D guided technology like 3D x-rays and 3D models of your teeth to help us to plan your treatment and achieve the most optimal outcome. Every patient is different, and each treatment is carefully planned to meet your individual needs. We will help you to understand each aspect of your care and offer free telephone or video consultations and treatment plan discussions as part of your treatment.
Maintaining Dental Implants
Implants should provide you with a long-lasting fixed solution if they are well maintained as, like natural teeth, they need to be looked after. They need good oral hygiene and regular professional check-ups and hygiene visits are essential to prevent peri-implant diseases. As a specialist periodontal practice, we are passionate about prevention and planning treatment designed to last and helping you look after your dental implants.
Dental Implants FAQs
Success rates of implants can be as high as 95-97% and with excellent maintenance, and good oral hygiene, they can last for at least 10-15 years or longer. In some patients, implants may not last as long or need some treatment to keep them maintained for longer, like teeth do.
The implant process typically involves three stages after we have 3D planned treatment. At Stage 1, the implant is placed into the bone and this is usually carried out under local anesthetic. Stage 2 is carried out after a few months once the implant has fused with the bone (osseointegration) and involves a simple procedure to uncover the implant. The new crown, bridge or implant supported denture that connects on top, can then be made to restore the missing teeth.
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the surgery. Some discomfort, swelling, or bruising may occur after the surgery, but this can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Dental implants should be cared for like natural teeth. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing or using interdental brushes daily, as well as attending regular check ups and hygiene visits to prevent gum disease around the implant (peri-implanitis).