Dental Implants – Your Questions Answered

What are Dental Implants?

Dental Implants replace the root of the natural tooth allowing a crown to be fitted into an empty space. The implant and the crown are connected by means of an abutment. Together the implant, abutment and crown produce a replica of your tooth that looks and functions like a natural tooth. For multiple spaces, a bridge or dentures can be used instead of single crowns.

Who are they suitable for?

Dental Implants are suitable for any patients that have the right amount of bone in the area where the implant will be placed a well as patients who take certain steroids e.g. for arthritis. The risk of the implant not integrating with the bone is higher for certain patients such as people who smoke or who are diabetic, but there other factors that go with these so it is best to come along to a consultation so that the oral surgeon can assess each patient individually.

How long does the treatment take?

It varies between patients but generally it takes 3-4 months on the lower and approximately 6-7 months for the upper jaw.

How long is the recovery process?

After the implant has been placed, there is a waiting period of approximately 3 months for the lower jaw and approximately 6 months for the upper jaw for the implant to integrate with the bone before the crown/bridge/denture are fitted on top.

What are the benefits of Dental Implants?

You can regain your smile. They can keep you youthful looking as they can prevent bone loss from occurring. You can also have your confidence back with dental implants as you will no longer have the woes/disadvantages associated with dentures.

Can I still have Dental Implants if I’ve lost some of my jawbone in the area in question?

Yes you can. Our expert oral surgeons can do procedures such as Bone Grafting and Sinus Lifts. They can determine whether you need these treatments at your free consultation.

Are there any disadvantages or side effects associated with the Dental Implants?

The procedure is an oral surgery procedure and therefore, like all surgery, there are some risks. However, these are minor and rare and the oral surgeon will be able to explain them at your consultation.

Are the materials used in the Treatments safe?

Of course! The metal used is Titanium, which is also used in operations in hospitals.

I’m interested in Dental Implants but I still have some questions, who can I contact?

One of our friendly advisors can help arrange a free consultation with one of our oral surgeons for you please contact us via our website or call us directly on 01582 518 100.