Implants

What are implants?

Implants are one way of replacing missing teeth. During the course of dental treatment It is sometimes necessary to remove a natural root. This is then replaced with a titanium fixture upon which a new crown is fixed. 

An implant is placed in the jaw bone to support a replacement tooth. This acts like the root of a natural tooth. Implants can also be used to support fixed bridges or dentures.

Implant treatment normally has two stages. First, the implant is placed in the jaw. Then, when the jaw has healed, replacement teeth are attached to the implant. In some situations it is possible for temporary teeth to be attached to an implant at the time of fitting.

Would implants be right for me?

First, you should decide whether implants could be right for you. Contact us to arrange an implant consultation and discussion and we will let you know the possibilities. Our team will be only too happy to help you with any questions you may have.

If you decide to go ahead, this is what will happen.

• Implants are placed into the prepared jawbone under local anaesthetic. You can opt to have sedation for this procedure also.

• The bone then grows round the implant to hold it firm. This takes several months.

Implants usually have two sections - the fixture in the jaw and an extension that is added later when the fixture is secure. You might have more than one implant. The replacement teeth might be fixed permanently (like a crown or bridge) or attached in a way which lets you remove them for cleaning (like a denture).