Implantology (tooth replacement by implant)

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root, placed into your jaw, which holds a replacement tooth or bridge. They are often more 'tooth saving' than traditional treatments since they do not rely on neighbouring teeth for support.

Advantages of Dental Implants

Implants are often the best solution to a missing tooth or teeth:

Aesthetic Advantages

Implants feel like your own teeth. They integrate into the structure of your bone and prevent loss of the bone after a tooth is removed.

Tooth-saving advantages

The quality of the adjacent teeth is not sacrificed because they do not have to be cut with the drill to provide support for a conventional bridge. This is of significant long-term benefit to your oral health.

Confidence

Dental implants will allow you to speak and eat with more confidence and comfort. They are secure and avoid the problems of wobbling dentures.

Reliability

While never 100%, the success rate of dental implants is high and they are considered an excellent option for tooth replacement.

Am I a candidate for Dental Implants?

The ideal candidate for dental implants will be in good general and oral health. There must be adequate bone available in your jaw, and the best candidate will have healthy gums and be free from periodontal (gum) disease.

What is treatment like?

Implants are placed in your jaw during a small surgical procedure under local anaesthetic. A general anaesthetic is not normally required. Once inserted the implants must be allowed to integrate with the bone of your jaw, a process that can take up to six months in some cases. During this period the implants are left buried under the gum, and are later exposed at a second short operation before being used to support your new crowns or bridges.

Treatment is normally far less painful and traumatic than you might think. Modern techniques ensure that the insertion of the implants can be carried out relatively quickly and without discomfort.

Useful Links:

British Society for Restorative Dentistry
Specialist Registrars in Restorative Dentistry
Association of Consultants & Specialists in Restorative Dentistry
British Society for the Study of Prosthetic Dentistry
Association of Dental Implantology (UK)
British Dental Association
General Dental Council
British Dental Health Foundation