Dental Implants

A dental implant is used to support one or more false teeth. It is a titanium screw that can replace the root of a tooth. Titanium is a biocompatible material and does not cause allergic  reactions. The implant is usually inserted into in the jaw bone under a local anaesthetic, and the bone grows onto the implant and integrates  with the surface. Implants are a safe, well-established treatment and have over a 90% success rate.

Single missing tooth

In the past, if someone were to lose a tooth, there would be two  options. They could wear a removable denture, or they could have a bridge placed that attaches to the teeth on either side of the  missing tooth.

A denture can be loose, uncomfortable and but other teeth at risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Certain types of  bridges have considerable downside in that a healthy tooth or teeth adjacent to the gap have to be ground down, then two crowns would be placed over the remainder of the tooth.

Today we have much better options. Dental implants enable us to  replace a single missing tooth without any damage to the adjacent teeth, providing you with a naturally functioning solution.. A replacement tooth can be secured to the top of the implant. The new tooth can look, feel and perform just like a natural tooth.

Missing two or more adjacent teeth

Dental implants are an alternative to partial dentures and conventional bridgework. They eliminate the need to grind down healthy teeth and do not place  additional loads on the teeth supporting the bridge. When a bridge rests on two or more implants, it does not damage any  healthy teeth and prevents natural bone from shrinking. The number of  missing teeth will determine how many implants you will need

In certain cases the implants can also be future-proofed if other adjacent teeth are likely to be lost as well. The same implants could be used to extend larger bridges, full mouth arches or complete dentures

Replacing all teeth

 Fed up with loose, uncomfortable dentures that keep dropping down of falling out. Longing to be able to eat what you want again? Well if you are missing all of your teeth from either your upper or lower jaw, dental implants may be the solution.

One option would involve the construction of a full arch ceramic bridge, which is secured permanently onto  your dental implants with tiny screws. Once the procedure is completed, it is extremely stable and you have normal function restored to your  mouth. Implant supported teeth are more comfortable than conventional dentures because there is no slipping or movement, because the implants are fixed they feel and function more like natural teeth. This eliminates some of the key worries of denture wearers and improves self-confidence. Depending on the amount of bone loss and aesthetics, pink porcelain can be used to mimic missing gums.

Another, cheaper option, is to have a full denture manufactured, which is then clipped onto a number of implants. The denture is still removable, but it clips into place using small attachments on top of your dental implants, that match up to corresponding clips on your new denture. These secures the denture firmly in place and the result are exceptionally stable and pleasing. As they are so stable, upper dentures no longer need to cover the palate area, which can cause retching and impede taste and eating sensation.

Can anyone have implants?

You must be in good  health and have the proper bone structure and healthy gums for the  implant to stay in place. People who are unable to wear dentures may  also be good candidates. If you suffer from chronic problems, such as  clenching or bruxism, or systemic diseases, such as diabetes, the  success rate for implants decreases dramatically. Additionally, people  who smoke or drink alcohol may not be good candidates. In certain cases where there is not enough bone to place the implant, a bone graft or something similar may be required.

How long will they last

Implants have a very high success rate, over 90%. They can last a lifetime, but it depends on how well you look after your implants  and whether you go for your regular maintenance appointments.

Are they expensive

They are more expensive than other options with prices starting at £2500 for a fully restored implant. Prices depend on the amount of implants, the type or restoration going on top and if bone grafting is required. We do offer interest free credit and other finance options to help spread the cost.