Specialist in Restorative Dentistry & Prosthodontics
Specialist Dental Clinic: 178 Handside Lane, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire AL8 6SZ. Tel: 01707 323250 or 07966 512512

178 handside lane
welwyn garden city
hertfordshire
al8 6sz

tel: 01707 323250
       07966 512512

fax: 01707 887903

FAQs

Can I have implants?
Implants are increasingly becoming the treatment of choice for many people to replace missing teeth. This includes people who have lost their teeth through trauma, decay, gum disease or failed dental restorations. Denture-wearers who have difficulty in eating or controlling a denture significantly benefit from implant supported dentures.

What's involved?
There are 2 phases to implant treatment. The first is the surgical placement, usually performed under local anaesthesia, of implants into the jaw. This is carried out as a one or two stage procedure, governed by the complexity of the individual situation.

The second or restorative phase involves making impressions and taking other records to ensure the accuracy of fit of the final restorations be they crowns, bridges or dentures.

What is the success rate of implants?
The overall success rate of implants is very good but does vary between individuals and the implant site in the jaws. The success rate exceeds 90% or higher over a 10 year period. This rate is affected by bone quality, smoking and pre-existing gum disease.

Are they expensive?
An individual treatment plan is given to each patient. Implant treatment is highly cost-effective over the lifetime of implant. Every case is different and requires a personalised approach.

What if I don't have enough bone?
Enough bone must be present to accept the right size and number of implants. In difficult areas bone grafting can be used to improve the amount of bone present. Sophisticated scans are necessary to plan these advanced treatments.

What are the risks?
Implant placement is a minor surgical procedure and the risks are no greater than taking out a tooth when carefully planned and carried out by a trained and experienced operator.

What happens after treatment?
The patient is discharged back to the referring dentist on completion of treatment. However, periodic check-ups and x-rays are made. For long-term health of dental implants and restorations good oral hygiene and cleaning are essential.