Dental Implants
Implants are now a routine way of replacing missing teeth. Implants can be used to replace just one tooth or multiple teeth as well as helping to secure dentures in place. Implants are made from commercially pure titanium that forms a natural union with the jaw bone – a process known as osseointegration.
Teeth that have been lost through trauma, gum disease, decay or failed crown and bridgework can ideally be replaced by implants. There is no further damage caused to any other teeth as implants stand alone. Complete denture wearers who find their dentures loose, uncomfortable or difficult to eat with and embarrassing may particularly benefit from 2 implants to secure their lower denture in place.
What does the procedure involve?
An initial consultation asses the health of your teeth, mouth and gums. Detailed x-rays are taken to identify the amount and quality of bone and to check for local anatomical features.
Implant surgery is usually performed under local anaesthesia. Sedation can be arranged for long or complicated procedures or according to patients preference. The implant is carefully and precisely placed into the prepared site in bone where teeth are missing. The gum, which had been previously reflected to expose bone, is placed back over the implant (two stage) or around a small titanium cylinder that protrudes from the implant (one stage). Healing develops over the next two to four months depending on the quality of bone at the implant site. Temporary restorations can be worn during this phase. In the two stage technique a second surgical procedure is required to expose the implant and fit a small titanium healing abutment for the gum to heal around. The two stage technique is used if bone augmentation has been necessary.
After the healing phase the restorative aspects begin. This may take several appointments depending on the complexity of the case. A single tooth replacement will require two appointments, a complete denture or a full arch bridge may need up to six appointments.
Implant Retained Dentures
Denture wearers who have loose and painful dentures may especially benefit from implant supported dentures. Two implants in the lower jaw and four in the upper secure a denture replacing all the teeth. The denture is attached, via either a gold bar, ball abutments or locator attachments, to the implants and held firmly in place allowing the patient to eat with confidence, smile and laugh again. This also allows the upper denture to be kept relatively small and not extend too far back over the palate. All our dentures are made using high quality materials to produce a natural, age appropriate smile.
Testimonial
"From my first meeting with Andrew, when the options were discussed and choices outlined, through the various stages of the treatment to the final excellent result, the professional, thoughtful and caring way the process was conducted made me feel the end result would be what I expected, and it was.
I am extremely happy with my teeth and implants and you, Andrew, have made a significant difference to my life and smile. Thank you."