Dental Implants

What is a dental implant?

They are a very flexible way of replacing missing teeth. They can be used to replace one missing tooth, several teeth or retaining a denture. They are made from tooth coloured porcelain; a titanium post is connected to the implant and held in place with a small screw.  

What are benefits of dental implants?

Look, feel and function identically to natural teeth

Confidence of a completely natural smile

No loose or uncomfortable dentures

Improved facial appearance and restores the natural functions of the mouth

What is the procedure involved?

Consultation appointment for treatment planning and consent Implant placement into the jaw using a minor surgical technique 

Abutment connection carried out 4-6 months after implant placement

Final crown and bridge construction

How many implants will I need?

It will depend on the bone available, the number of teeth missing and the type of restoration that will be produced. It is not always necessary to match the exact number of teeth being extracted.

How long will implants last?

This will depend on the quality and quantity of bone available, the bodies’ response to treatment and the level of maintenance. The best implant systems can show lifetime survival rates of 98%. 

Is it going to be painful?

It is very uncommon for patients to experience any discomfort during implant placement. If a graft is placed or multiple implants are placed most patient experience swelling which will reduce after three days.  

How long I need to be on the chair for the treatment?

Implant placement will take from 1 hour for a single tooth to three hours for a very complicated large case. In most cases the treatment can be done in one appointment.  

I am anxious, can I have sedation?

IV sedation can be carried out if necessary; it will be discussed with you at initial appointment by Dr Shaffie. 

Do I have to take day off from work?

Normally absence from work in not necessary unless more advanced surgical work is needed; the recovery is straightforward

I smoke, does it matter?  

Modern implant systems are more tolerant of smoking and drinking -but there are some negative effects on success rates.

Will my implants require maintenance? Yes, clinical monitoring and patient home care is required to ensure that the implants are maintained to a high standard. 

Can I have my implants straight away after my tooth extraction?

It is possible to have a tooth extracted and an implant immediately. The advantage is speed of treatment and the disadvantage is the reduced success rate and difficulty in controlling the gum level.

I suffer from some medical conditions, can I have dental implant? 

Some condition such as bleeding disorders, bone disorders, uncontrolled diabetes excludes you from implant care.  If you have a complicated medical condition, we can discuss this at the consultation stage.

Is there any age restriction in implant placement?

Minimum age is about 19 years old when facial growth completed; there is no upper limit to the benefits of implants.

Please click here to check the list of FGDP(UK) Diploma in Implant Dentistry holders.

For further information please contact us