DENTAL IMPLANTS
Dental implants are a popular choice for people who are missing teeth. They are permanent, look natural, and can last a lifetime with proper care. Find out everything you need to know about dental implants -what they are, how they work, the benefits of dental implants, and more.
Everything You Need to Know About Dental Implants
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are placed in the jawbone to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. They are an option for people who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason.
WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS?
Dental implants are made of titanium, a material that is compatible with the human body. The implant fuses with the bone over time, creating a strong and stable foundation for the replacement tooth.
WHAT ARE IMPLANTS MADE OF?
BENEFITS OF DENTAL IMPLANTS
The benefits of dental implants include:-
Permanent replacement for missing teeth
Has predictable and good long-term success rate
Prevents supporting bone from shrinking after tooth loss
Prevent further tooth loss
Does not decay as it is made from Titanium
Able to generate stronger bite forces for better chewing and hence better digestion and nutrition
Improved oral health
Increased comfort
Preserve the jawbone
Restores appearance thus creating more confidence and self-esteem
Able to provide better support for lips and cheeks for a more youthful look
ARE YOU SUITABLE FOR IMPLANTS?
Implants can be placed in most patients from age 18-80.
Even if you have lost your teeth for many years, we are able to regenerate bone in order to place implants as a foundation for your denture or bridge.
Patients with health conditions should inform our dentist so that additional precautions can be taken, if required. In most instances, surgery can be performed after clearance from your medical specialist.
ALIGN DENTAL IMPLANT PROCEss
Step 1 Implant Insertion
The implant fixture is surgically inserted into the jawbone and acts as a route for the replacement tooth.
Step 2 Osseointegration
The implant fixture is left to recover and fuse with the surrounding jawbone, becoming part of your natural gum line.
Step 3 Abument
The gum is reopened to expose the implant fixture in order to attach the abutment.
Step 4 Crown Placement
The final prosthesis (crown) is permanently cemented to the abutment.
DENTAL IMPLANT SURGERY EXPLAINED
The entire dental implant procedure can often be divided into three main stages and takes between four and six months to complete.
Step 1: Removing any decayed or shaky teeth and allowing for the bone to heal.
Step 2: Placing the implant screw into the bone and again allowing the bone to harden around the implant.
Step 3: Finishing up the final crown or replacement teeth.
FAQs
What is the surgical procedure like?
After giving some local anaesthetic, a small incision is made through the gums and a point of insertion decided. Drills of a predetermined length and with increasing diameters are then used to gently prepare the site to receive the implant. The implant is then rotated to the desired depth and allowed to heal undisturbed for 3-4 months. Implant surgery is generally a minimally invasive procedure and in most instances the pain is minimal. If you are fearful, we can arrange for you to have a complete pain-free experience either by performing the procedure under intravenous sedation. The mix of drugs will help you relax, sleep and eliminate pain.
How long does it take to recover from the Surgery?
After the operation, you may feel uncomfortable but this can be eliminated by taking the prescribed painkillers regularly. Some swelling and bruising is to be expected. You can resume normal activity within a day but should avoid strenuous exercise and swimming. A normal or soft diet is advised and can be commenced after the numbness from the local anaesthesia wears off, usually around 2-3 hours after the procedure.
DENTAL IMPLANTS
To learn more about Dental Implants and see if it's right for you, schedule a consultation with our clinic today. We will be happy to answer any of your questions and help you get started on the path to straighter teeth.