Dental Implants
Dental implants are a popular solution to replace missing teeth.
Unlike dentures, you won’t experience problems with slipping or sliding, and they don’t require a specialised daily care routine beyond regular brushing and flossing. Unlike bridges, dental implants do not require alteration to your existing, healthy teeth. In fact, bridges can be supported by implants for fewer alterations during a more complex restoration.
Do I Need Dental Implants?
For many people, missing teeth present a mostly cosmetic problem. This is a fair concern.
Unfortunately, the problem of missing teeth goes beyond the cosmetic issue. Missing teeth put additional stress on your remaining teeth and can lead to damage, including fractures and even continued tooth loss. When you are missing teeth, you may find it difficult or even painful to enjoy the fresh, healthy foods you require for proper nutrition and nourishment.
Even more concerning, one or more missing teeth can eventually lead to significant bone loss in your jaw as the bone resorbs from lack of use. Over time, this diminishing bone can lead to visible changes in your face and cause you to appear prematurely aged.
Dental implants help stop this process.
Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants?
While most healthy adults are eligible for dental implants, some health conditions can change the effectiveness of the implants.
When you visit our surgery to discuss dental implants, we will ask you a number of questions about your health history. These questions are important to help us determine whether dental implants are the right option for you. Don’t worry – even if you do have a health concern, we are likely still able to work with you. We just need to know about it so that we can account for it and take any necessary precautions.
How Are Dental Implants Placed?
Prior to beginning the actual implant process, we will perform a full evaluation including three-dimensional x-rays. Because the implant is attached directly to your jaw, we need to know the condition of your bone. If necessary, you could be a candidate for grafts and other procedures to build up your jaw bone.
The titanium screws for your implants will then be placed. Once you have healed sufficiently, you may receive a temporary crown over the implant whilst we wait for your permanent crown to return from the dental lab. Once the permanent crown has returned from the dental lab, you will return to our clinic to have it placed. The fit and appearance will be checked, and your implant will be complete.
For more information about dental implants or to arrange an appointment, please contact our practice.
