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Dental Implants
Dental implants (aka fixture or endosseous implant) are a popular restoration option that sits in the jaw bones and, therefore, permanently supports a dental prosthesis such as a crown, bridge or removable denture. They look and feel like natural teeth, so you can enjoy eating your favourite foods again without worrying about dentures slipping or bridges breaking.
In addition, they can improve your self-confidence by giving you a beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime. This webpage will explore the different types of dental implants available, the implant process from consultation to post-operative care, the cost of dental implants, alternative options to consider, common myths debunked and tips on choosing a qualified provider with real patient reviews available for verification.
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- Dental implants offer a permanent and natural-looking solution to replace missing teeth, improving self-confidence and oral health.
- The dental implant process involves several steps, including a consultation to assess suitability and candidacy requirements may vary depending on each patient’s unique situation.
- Factors that influence the cost of dental implants include the number of teeth being replaced, additional procedures required, and whether sedation is necessary during surgery. Financing options may be available to make dental implants more affordable.
- Dental implants require proper maintenance to ensure dental implant longevity and potential risks and complications can be minimised by following proper aftercare instructions and a healthy lifestyle. When considering alternatives like dentures and bridges, weighing the benefits and drawbacks is important.
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 when it fails. Just like a tooth root, it is placed into the jawbone. Oral Health Foundation
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Dental implants can last over 20 years with proper care and maintenance. This starkly contrasts dentures, which require constant repairs or replacements due to wear and tear. Dental implants are also a more permanent solution since they don’t need to be removed daily like dentures.
In addition to longevity, dental implants offer a natural feel and look that closely resembles natural teeth, contributing to better oral health and hygiene without compromising aesthetics.
Additionally, dental implants eliminate discomfort often associated with removable dentures and allow individuals to enjoy their favourite foods without restrictions. So why settle for less when you can have all of this with dental implants?
Now let’s move on to the different types of dental implants available, including single-tooth implants, multiple-tooth implants, cheekbone implants and full arch restorations.
Types of dental implant treatment include single and multiple-tooth implants (endosteal implants), cheekbone (zygomatic) implants and full arch restorations.
Cheekbone implants, also known as zygomatic implants, are used when regular implants aren’t viable due to insufficient jawbone in the mouth. These implants use the cheekbone as an anchor point for the replacement teeth, providing a secure base for restoration.
Multiple-tooth dental implants involve positioning several implants to support replacement teeth. Implant-supported dentures use mini dental implants to provide stability and prevent slipping.
Full arch restorations, or full-arch dental implants or all-on-4 dental implants, replace all missing teeth with four strategically placed titanium rods per arch.
With these different types of dental implant options available, achieving a natural-looking and functional smile is possible for anyone seeking tooth replacement solutions.
Transitioning into the subsequent section about ‘get a new smile in a day with dental implants – discover our same-day smile solution’, it’s important to note that while there are many types of dental implant procedures available, choosing the right one involves careful consideration from both you and your dentist.
Let’s explore how our same-day smile solution can help restore your confidence in just one appointment.
Our Smile in a Day treatment replaces missing teeth with dental implants and fixed teeth in one day. It is, therefore, suitable for those who want to restore their smile without waiting months for traditional implant methods. Imagine single or multiple implants placed and real teeth on top of the implant on the same day!!!!
To help you make an informed decision, below is a table outlining some benefits and drawbacks of our same-day smile solution. While this treatment is less invasive and quicker than traditional dental implant methods, it’s important to note that candidacy requirements may vary depending on each patient’s unique situation. However, our experienced team at London Dental Specialists can help determine if Smile in a Day is right for you. Once completed, maintenance techniques are similar to natural teeth care, ensuring the longevity of results.
| Benefits | Drawbacks | Candidacy Requirements |
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| Restores ability to bite, chew and enjoy all types of food like natural teeth | May not be suitable for patients with extreme bone loss or existing gum disease | Generally healthy individual with good oral hygiene habits |
| Restores smile and confidence – long-lasting solution | Requires immediate loading which may cause temporary discomfort during the healing period | Sufficient bone density to support implants |
| Virtually pain-free procedure with minimal recovery time | Cost may be higher compared to other restoration options such as dentures or bridges | Non-smoker or willing to quit before the procedure |
Our commitment at London Dental Specialists is not only focused on delivering exceptional results but also on providing personalised care every step of the way. Before undergoing any treatment, we ensure that all options are discussed thoroughly so that patients have clarity regarding what they can expect from us. In the next section, we’ll provide an overview of the dental implant process, including consultations, surgery, and post-operative care.
Getting a dental implant involves several steps, starting with a consultation process where your dentist will assess your suitability for the procedure. During the consultation, they may take X-rays and perform other tests to determine whether you have enough bone density to support an implant. We will also explain the surgical techniques used during implant placement and answer any questions about post-operative instructions.
Once we have determined that you are a good candidate for a dental implant, they will schedule an appointment for surgery. During the procedure, your dentist will cut into your gum tissue and place the implant in your jawbone. Afterwards, we will provide post-operative instructions to ensure proper healing and minimise discomfort. Following these instructions carefully is important to avoid complications and ensure successful healing. After a healing period of 3 months, we will take impressions of the implant, and a custom-made tooth/set of teeth will be constructed.
In terms of costs, dental implants can be expensive but are considered an investment in your smile. Factors influencing the cost include the number of teeth replaced, whether additional procedures such as bone/gum grafts are required, and whether sedation is necessary during surgery. Financing options such as payment plans or financing through third-party companies may be available to help make dental implants more affordable for patients who need them.
Dental implant costs can vary depending on factors such as the number of implants required and the level of experience of the clinician performing the procedure. Getting a new smile is an investment, but dental implants are an excellent choice for long-lasting and durable results.
Additional surgical work like bone grafting or sinus lifts may add to the cost. However, financing options may be available with no deposit required to help manage costs. The most important consideration when assessing costs revolves around warranties. London Dental Specialists offers a 10-year warranty on the labour costs of any work required to make the implant healthy as long as you see our hygienist four times per year. do not smoke, control your diabetes and adhere to the hygienists’ advice. Many places will offer you a 10-year warranty on the implant. This is worthless because the labour costs are much more important. Click here to see our fees page.
Dental implants are made from zirconia or titanium. Both these materials have their pros and cons when it comes to dental implants. Titanium has been the gold standard for years due to its high success rates and biocompatibility with the human body. Zirconia is a relatively new material that has gained popularity due to its tooth-coloured appearance, making it more aesthetically pleasing than titanium. However, further in vivo studies are needed before a recommendation can be made on using zirconia as an alternative to titanium. The choice of material plays a crucial role in determining the success and longevity of your implant.
Biocompatibility of Dental Implant Materials: Biocompatibility refers to how well a material integrates with living tissue without causing any allergic reactions or toxicity. While both titanium and zirconia are considered biocompatible with human tissues, some patients may develop sensitivity or allergic reactions towards one or both materials.
Porcelain implants are another option for those who prefer non-metallic solutions but have their own drawbacks such as fragility and low strength compared to metal implants.
It’s important to consult with your dentist regarding which material would best suit your needs based on factors like aesthetic preferences, budget constraints, and medical history. Considering all these aspects, you can decide which type of implant would work best for you.
Now that we have discussed dental implant materials in detail, let us move on to tips on properly taking care of your dental implants so they last longer.
Dental Implant Maintenance.
Daily dental implant maintenance is essential to proper care of your dental implants leading to long-term success of this incredible technique. Good dental implant hygiene involves cleaning techniques similar to natural teeth. You should brush your implants twice a day using an oral b electric toothbrush with a pressure-sensitive head and fluoride toothpaste. Flossing and interdental brushes also remove plaque buildup around the implants.
Preventative maintenance is key in keeping your dental implants healthy and functional for years to come. Regular appointments with your hygienist are highly recommended, as they can assess the state of your implants and suggest specialist cleaning aids if necessary. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle by avoiding smoking and eating a balanced diet can help prevent complications associated with dental implant surgery. With proper care, you can maximize the longevity and effectiveness of your dental implants.
Continuing on from discussing preventative maintenance, let’s now delve into the potential risks and complications associated with dental implant surgery and how best to minimise them.
Although dental implant surgery has a high success rate of around 90-95%, there are still potential complications such as infection at the implant site, gum recession, nerve or tissue damage, and even rare metal sensitivity causing implant rejection.
However, these risks can be minimised by following proper aftercare instructions such as regular cleaning and avoiding hot food and drinks while numb. It’s also essential to quit smoking if you’re a smoker since smokers have reduced success rates for dental implants.
Prevention tips include wearing a mouthguard if you grind your teeth to prevent damage to both natural and implant teeth. Regular check-ups with your dentist or dental hygienist are necessary for maintaining your implant’s longevity and effectiveness. In case of any complications, seeking a prompt assessment from your dentist is crucial to prevent the removal of the implant.
Complication management strategies include taking antibiotics and pain relievers as prescribed by your dentist, following up on appointments regularly, resting well after surgery, eating soft foods during the recovery period, using ice packs to alleviate swelling and inflammation, and taking paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain relief.
By being aware of these potential risks and taking necessary precautions, you can enjoy a successful outcome with dental implants.
As we’ve discussed possible risks associated with dental implants, prevention tips, and complication management strategies, let’s discuss another important aspect: Dental Implant Success Rates – A review of factors influencing their success rates.
According to life table analysis, at the implant level the cumulative survival rate at 3, 5, 10, and 15 years was 98.9%, 98.5%, 96.8%, and 94.0%, respectively.
Factors influencing long-term success include age, gender, bone quality, implant placement site, surgery-related and implant fixture-related factors, and prosthesis-related factors.
Careful selection of cases and absence of significant medical conditions help in improving the survival rate of implants. Moreover, to prevent complications associated with dental implants such as bleeding from the implant site or infection during early healing stages, it’s important to ensure proper oral hygiene and quit smoking.
Long-term clinical studies are required to evaluate various risk factors and implant diameter length on its success in different populations. By taking these preventive measures into account, patients can increase their chances of successful dental implant procedures.
When considering alternatives such as dentures or bridges, it’s important to weigh their benefits against those of dental implants and consult with a qualified dentist to determine which option is best suited for individual needs.
Alternatives to dental implants include fixed tooth bridges and removable dentures. When considering options for restoring missing teeth, weighing the benefits and drawbacks of alternatives like dentures and bridges is important. While dentures can be a more affordable option, they come with challenges, such as discomfort, slipping, and difficulty chewing. Different types of dentures are available – partial or complete, conventional or immediate – but all require regular maintenance and adjustments.
On the other hand, bridges offer a more permanent solution by using adjacent healthy teeth as support. The materials used for bridges can vary from metal alloys to porcelain to zirconia. However, this option requires reducing the size of the supporting teeth, which can lead to long-term damage and complications. Furthermore, neither dentures nor bridges prevent bone loss in the jaw, unlike dental implants, which integrate fully into the bone. While implants will have a higher initial cost than these alternatives, their longevity and superior functionality make them a worthwhile investment in one’s oral health and overall quality of life.
As we’ve seen, patients may consider various alternatives to dental implants when faced with missing teeth. However, it’s important to understand that each option has its own unique pros and cons. In the next section, we’ll address common myths surrounding dental implants so that patients can make informed decisions about their oral health without being swayed by misconceptions or misinformation.
Common dental implant myths include the idea that dental implants look artificial or are only for older people. The reality is that dental implants can be custom-made to fit seamlessly into your smile and are suitable for people of all ages who need to replace damaged or missing teeth.
Another common myth is that dental implant treatment is painful or risky. In fact, the procedure is performed under anaesthesia and most patients report minimal discomfort during recovery. Additionally, dental implant treatment has a success rate of close to 100% when patients choose an experienced (ideally specialist) surgeon and follow their post-treatment advice.
It’s important to do your own research, look for video and written reviews and ask questions to understand what getting dental implants involves before deciding whether they’re right for you.
When choosing a qualified and experienced dental implant provider, several factors must be considered.
Choosing an Implant Dentist: Tips on how to choose a qualified and experienced dental implant surgeon.
Finding the right implant dentist for your dental implant procedure can be a challenge, but with these tips on what to look for in a provider, you can ensure that you make an informed decision. Qualifications, experience, and reputation are key when choosing a dental implant provider. You want someone with extensive training and years of experience performing successful dental implant procedures.
To help make your decision easier, here is a table summarizing what to look for in a qualified and experienced dental implant provider:
To help make your decision easier, here is a table summarizing what to look for in a qualified and experienced dental implant provider:
| Factor | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Qualifications | Specialisation in periodontics, prosthodontics or oral surgery. |
| Experience | Years of experience performing successful dental implant procedures. |
| Reputation | Positive video reviews from previous patients. |
By keeping these factors in mind when researching potential providers, you can feel confident that you are selecting someone who will provide high-quality care throughout your dental implant journey. I am sure you can see that London Dental Specialists tick all the above boxes.
How to Identify Dental Implant Experts.
To verify reviews, here are three ethical considerations to keep in mind:
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Look for detailed and specific feedback: Genuine reviews often provide detailed information about the patient’s experience, including specific aspects of their treatment that they especially appreciated or disliked.
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Check multiple sources: A reputable dental practice should have numerous positive reviews across different platforms (e.g., Google, Yelp, Facebook). If there are only a few reviews or all the feedback seems too similar, it may be worth investigating further.
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Consider dentist-patient communication: Communication is key in any healthcare relationship. Therefore, pay attention to how dentists respond to negative feedback and whether they address concerns respectfully and professionally.
By taking these steps to verify reviews from real patients who have undergone dental implant procedures at London Dental Specialists or elsewhere, you can feel confident in making an informed choice about your dental implant provider.
Dental Implant FAQ
Q: What are dental implants?
A: A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically placed in the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. They provide a permanent base for replacement teeth and can be used for a single lost tooth or many missing teeth. Because they go into the jaw bone, dental implants look and feel like normal teeth.
Q: Who is suitable for dental implants?
A: If you are missing one or more teeth and have good overall dental health, you may be a suitable candidate for dental implants. Your dentist or implant specialist can evaluate your mouth and determine if implants are right for you.
Q: How long do dental implants last?
A: Dental implants can last for many years with proper care and hygiene. In fact, they are designed to be a permanent solution for missing teeth.
Q: A dental implant can replace my tooth. Is this correct?
A: Yes, dental implants can be used to replace one or more missing teeth, or even to support a full arch of replacement teeth. Your dentist or implant specialist can discuss your specific needs and develop a treatment plan that works for you.
Q: How do I get dental implants?
A: Dental implant surgery is a multi-step process. Typically the first stage of dental implants is a surgical procedure involving numbing the area with local anaesthesia, making an incision in the gum tissue, and placing the implant into the jawbone. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone to create a secure base for a replacement tooth or teeth.
Q: Are dental implants painful?
A: While dental implant surgery is a surgical procedure, it is usually well-tolerated by patients with minimal discomfort or pain during and after the procedure. Your dentist or implant specialist can provide you with more information about what to expect during and after the surgery.
Q: Do I need normal dental care if I do not have natural teeth?
A: Dental implants should be cared for just like natural teeth, with regular brushing and flossing, as well as regular check-ups with your dentist. Good oral hygiene is essential for the survival of dental implants.
Q: How are dental implants made?
A: Dental implants are typically made from titanium or a titanium alloy, which is biocompatible and can fuse with bone over time. They are often designed to replicate the shape of a natural tooth root and can be custom-made to fit each individual patient’s needs.
Q: What is the survival rate for dental implants?
A: The survival rate for dental implants is very high, with many studies reporting success rates of over 95% in healthy patients. Factors that can affect the survival of dental implants include overall health, oral hygiene, and the quality of implant placement.
Q: Do dental implants offer a permanent solution?
A: Dental implants offer a permanent and stable solution for missing teeth, and can improve oral health, speech, and chewing function. They can also enhance your overall appearance and self-confidence by giving you a natural-looking and functional smile. This is true for a single lost tooth or many lost teeth.
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