Dental implants are the modern way of replacing lost or missing teeth. Essentially they are titanium screws which are fixed into the jawbone. After a healing period of around six months, the dental implant is ready to accept a custom made crown giving the patient a fully functioning and long lasting, natural looking tooth. Dental implants may be used to replace individual teeth, multiple teeth, or all your teeth in one or both arches. Surgery is often straight forward under local anaesthetic or sedation but will require a specific treatment plan.
Benefits of Dental Implants
- Implants are fixed in place and look and perform almost like natural teeth
- Implants fit precisely without slipping or the need for adhesives
- Implants preserve facial features and restore a natural smile
- Implants avoid damage to surrounding healthy teeth
- Implants prevent loss of bone in the area of the missing teeth
- Implants improve your appearance and allow you to eat the foods you choose without worry
- Implant treatment can with care, last a lifetime
Dental Implant FAQ’s
Almost anyone that has lost a tooth, several teeth or even all of their teeth is a candidate for dental implants. Patients should have healthy gums and enough bone to hold the implant. If you are considering implants, talk to your dentist to see if they are right for you.
As in any oral surgical procedure, there is degree of discomfort. However many implant patients tell us that they were surprised at how minimal and short the duration of discomfort was.
Dental implants need to be brushed and flossed just like natural teeth. As with natural teeth, you will need to visit your dentist and hygienist periodically for review and maintenance.
Success rates of dental implants can vary, depending on where in the jaw the implants are placed. Generally, providing the oral hygiene is maintained, dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%, and with good care can last a lifetime.
Age is not normally a factor for dental implants. Bone healing around dental implants occurs throughout adult life. The only thing to stand in the way of dental implant treatment in the elderly is general medical health.