Implants

Implants are used to replace missing tooth, or to replace a tooth that needs extraction. Whilst partial dentures can be used to replace missing teeth, Implants are usually a much better option since dentures can hasten the loss of remaining natural teeth.

The normal method of replacing missing teeth are bridges or dentures.
Bridges involve sticking false teeth onto existing teeth. Bridges can only be provided when there are sufficient strong and healthy remaining teeth. They are fixed replacement but can fall in time for a variety of different reasons.
Dentures are teeth attached to a removable plastic or metal plate. They have to be taken out every day for cleaning and may not always stay in place well, as the shape of the gums and bone in mouth is constantly changing.
Though Bridges and Dentures can serve us satisfactorily, Implants provide better support and result in more comfortable and stable replacement teeth. Implants also create natural pressure on bone and slow down the shrinkage of jawbone which occurs as a result of tooth loss.

The procedure for placing implants is:

• An initial assessment (usually involving x-rays).
• Placement of the titanium root in the jaw, followed by a time period for healing and integration.
• A minor procedure to uncover the implant.
• Making an impression of the new root and its relationship to the other teeth in the mouth.
• Fitting the replacement tooth onto the root.

The procedure has been very well tested and has a success rate of greater than 95%. There will be a need for follow-ups, from time to time, even in successful implants.

Arrange a consultation with us to assess your mouth. We will make some moulds and take radiographs and photographs. After doing some planning, we will be able to inform you when you can get started on replacing those missing teeth and a precise estimate of the cost.