Dental Implants
If you're missing a tooth or two, you may find that there are other things you miss. You may miss your natural smile and the ability to bite into apples or chew on other foods you like. You might feel self-conscious about your teeth and mouth, or discomfort as remaining teeth shift.
If you've lost the crown of your tooth, you've lost the visible part above the gum. But if you've lost the root as well, you've lost the unseen part of your tooth. The root anchors the tooth in your jawbone, providing stable support for the crown. Without the root, the bone around the lost tooth may gradually recede, remaining teeth may shift and chewing may become more difficult with time.
In the past, the best way to replace a missing tooth was with fixed bridges or dentures. Bridges require healthy teeth to be cut down, and dentures can often be uncomfortable and unstable. The average denture patient with an excellent fitting denture eats at 15-20% efficiency when compared to a person with natural teeth. This is due to the continuous shrinkage of the jawbone, altering the fit of the denture.
What can technology offer?
Currently, the best way to replace the whole tooth is by a Dental Implant. Dental implants are made of the same bio-compatible material that is used in hip implants and similar orthopaedic devices. They are very strong and provide a very realistic restoration that would be virtually indistinguishable from your own natural teeth. Dental Implants can restore chewing efficiency comparable to that of natural teeth. As they are securely anchored into the bone, they stop the bone receding, therefore maintaining the structure of the face.
Why should I consider implants?
You can enjoy what everyone is eating and you don't have to think twice about it!
A full upper denture covers the palate of the mouth and reduces the ability to taste foods. Dental implants provide more retention for an upper denture, so you can have the palate removed from the denture and start to really taste and enjoy your food.
Dental Implants will improve your overall self- esteem and you will feel better about yourself. You will no longer have any unsightly gaps in your smile. Gaps in your smile can look unattractive, but they can also mean that other teeth may move or tilt into the gaps, causing functional problems (such as tooth wear or jaw joint soreness). Placing an implant or two can eliminate this problem.
What are my implant options?
Replacing a Single Tooth
If you are missing a single tooth, one implant and a crown can replace it. A dental implant replaces both the lost natural tooth and its root.
Replacing Several Teeth
If you are missing several teeth, implant-supported bridges can replace them. Dental implants will replace both your lost natural teeth and some of the roots.
Replacing All of Your Teeth
If you are missing all of your teeth, an implant-supported full bridge or full denture can replace them. Dental implants will replace both your lost natural teeth and some of the roots.
Does it hurt to have dental implants placed?
The procedure to place a dental implant is done under local or general anaesthetic in sterile surgical conditions, and is generally not painful. The level of discomfort is different from patient to patient, but most do not have significant problems. Some patients may experience a little pain when the anaesthetic wears off 3-4 hours later, and varying degrees of discomfort, which may last for several days. Slight swelling may also develop.
What is the success rate of implants?
Implants have been placed for at least the past 25 years. For the last 10 years, success rates are consistently over 95% with proper personal and professional care. The success rate of the implant is not only down to the health professionals that place it, but also to the patient, who needs to maintain it as they would their own teeth (with correct brushing, flossing and regular visits to the dentist and dental hygienist).
How long does the process take from start to finish?
There are two phases in implant dentistry:
Phase One: Before placing the implant, the jawbone is measured for density in all dimensions to make sure there is enough bone to hold the implant. Using very accurate surgical techniques, an incision is made in the gum and the implant is screwed into the bone. The gum tissues are sutured together and a cap placed over the top of the implant, so that healing and oseo-integration can begin. Oseo-integration is the process of bone fusing to the implant.
Phase Two: After an impression is taken of the site, a new tooth is created in the dental laboratory to be placed on top of the implant. This tooth appears very natural, as the top of the implant is below the gum line and can’t be seen!
Will I be without teeth between Phase One and Two?
You will never be without teeth. We will make sure that in the interim period, you look and feel as natural as possible.
Are they expensive?
Initially, you might feel that dental implants are expensive. However, they are a much more permanent and natural solution than dentures, partials or bridges. The initial outlay may be higher, but you will get a much greater return for your investment, with the implant lasting a great many years. Your dentist will discuss cost with you, as every case is different.