Dental Implants
Dental implants provide a durable and natural solution for missing teeth. Expertly inserted, these posts seamlessly integrate with your mouth, creating a stable foundation for artificial teeth. This versatile option restores both function and aesthetics, enhancing your smile. Whether for a single tooth or multiple replacements, dental implants stand out as a reliable and long-lasting choice, promoting oral health and confidence.
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Treatment Walkthrough
Dental Implants typically follow these 4 steps:
1. Consultation & Planning
The process begins with a thorough consultation where your dentist assesses your oral health and discusses the best course of action. X-rays and scans help in planning the precise placement of the implant.
2. Implant Placement
Once the plan is in place, the dental implant, a small titanium post, is surgically placed into the jawbone beneath the gum. While this might sound complex, the procedure is routine and carried out with local anaesthesia to ensure your comfort.
3. Osseointegration
After implant placement, a crucial phase follows – osseointegration. This is when the implant fuses with the jawbone, creating a strong foundation. This healing process typically takes a few months, during which you can continue with your daily activities without major disruption.
4. Abutement & Crown Placement
Once the implant has integrated with the jawbone, an abutment is attached. This acts as a connector between the implant and the artificial tooth. Finally, a custom-made crown, crafted to match your natural teeth, is placed onto the abutment. This completes the restoration, leaving you with a functional and aesthetically pleasing Tooth.
Benefits
1. Preservation of Adjacent Teeth:
Dental implants don't rely on adjacent teeth for support, unlike bridges, which may require the alteration of neighbouring healthy teeth. This helps to preserve the natural structure of adjacent teeth.
2. Bone Health Maintenance
Implants integrate with the jawbone, stimulating it and preventing bone loss. Bridges, on the other hand, don't address bone health, and the lack of stimulation can lead to gradual bone resorption.
3. Durability and Longevity:
Dental implants are known for their durability and longevity. With proper care, implants can last a lifetime, offering a more permanent solution than dental bridges, which may require replacement over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental implants painful?
Dental implant procedures are designed to be as comfortable as possible. Before the surgery, the dentist administers local anaesthesia to numb the treatment area, ensuring patients don't feel pain during the procedure. Afterward, patients may experience mild discomfort or swelling, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. The overall goal is to make the patient's experience as pain-free as possible.
How long does a dental implant procedure take?
The duration of the dental implant procedure varies depending on several factors, including the number of implants and any necessary preparatory treatments. On average, the initial implant placement surgery takes a few hours. Following this, a healing period, known as osseointegration, is necessary. This can take several weeks to a few months, during which the implant fuses with the jawbone. Once the implant has integrated successfully, the final crown or restoration is attached, completing the process.
What is the success rate of dental implants?
Dental implants have a high success rate, typically ranging from 90-95%. Success depends on various factors, including the patient's overall health, oral hygiene practices, and adherence to post-surgery care instructions. Regular check-ups with the dentist are essential for monitoring the implant's health and addressing any issues promptly.
Can you tell if you have had a dental implant?
No. The dental implant itself is not visible as it is surgically placed beneath the gumline. The visible part is the custom-made crown, which is attached to the implant and designed to match the colour and shape of the surrounding natural teeth. The goal is to create a restoration that seamlessly blends in with the patient's smile, making the implant virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.
Can you tell if you have had a dental implant?
Caring for dental implants is similar to caring for natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing are crucial to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent gum disease. Using a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste helps protect the implant and surrounding tissues. Routine dental check-ups are also essential for professional cleanings and to address any potential issues early on.