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DENTAL IMPLANTS
Dental implants are designed for provide the foundation for the restorative dentist to replace missing teeth to form and function.
The patient has the ability to eat virtually anything. Facial contours and tooth space is also maintained by replacing missing teeth.
Implants are manufactured from Titanium posts which are inserted into the jawbone where the teeth are missing. If there is insufficient bone structure then a bone implant may be considered.
There are many different types of implant and the determination is made on examination, bearing in mind the degree of space, amount of remaining bone and choice of dentist.
Prior to implantation a patient will have their teeth removed under local anaesthesia, after having impressions taken of their teeth and mouth. A few days later they will return to the clinic and their gums will be checked for healing. They will be provided with a prosthesis (false teeth), depending on the amount of implants required can be from a single tooth to a whole top or bottom set, that they can wear until they return to have the implants inserted.
On a return visit some months later they can have the implants fitted into their gums and this is done either under strong sedation or general anaesthesia. Again an impression is taken off the teeth and mouth in order that a further prosthesis can be prepared to be worn for up to 6 months. Once the implant is inserted a healing time of up to 6 months is required. A few days later the patient will return to have their implants checked and to have their prosthesis fitted.
Up to 6 months later the patient will return to ensure that it has become a tooth root substitute and restorative treatment can begin. The last phase is when the dentist makes the crown that will attach to the implants. Crowns are designed to match existing teeth in shape and colouring so that a natural effect is achieved and once completed your mouth will be resorted to natural and strong looking teeth.
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