All you need to know
Dental implants are a popular and effective method of replacing missing teeth. They are often preferred to dentures due to their snug fit, longevity, and support for replacement teeth. Depending on the number of teeth to be replaced, a single implant or several implants can be inserted.
A dental implant is a slim titanium rod that acts as an artificial tooth root. It is inserted into the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone over several months in a process known as ‘osseointegration’. Once this has occurred, false teeth (restorations) are fitted over the implant, which look and act the same way as natural teeth.
DENTAL IMPLANT PROCEDURE
There needs to be sufficient density in the jawbone before an implant is inserted. If there is not enough bone in your jaw, a bone graft will be performed before the implant is inserted.
- If you have any existing dental problems such as tooth decay and/or gum disease then these will be treated before the implant procedure.
Dental implants are inserted under a local anaesthetic. The dentist makes a small incision in the gum before lifting the flap to drill a small hole in the jaw. This acts as the site for the implant. The titanium implant is placed in this hole and the gum incision closed with sutures.
The implant is left to integrate with the jawbone for up to 6 months. In the meantime, you will be given a temporary set of teeth, i.e., dentures, to wear.
Once integration has taken place a small device called an abutment is attached to the implant which acts as a connector between this and the replacement tooth. A temporary crown is fitted and worn briefly before being replaced by a permanent tooth. See Testimonials.