Dental implants are a great long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. Implants are preferred by many, especially when the tooth that is missing is visible. There are many questions surrounding dental implants and how the treatment works. Whilst we would always recommend you coming into the practice to discuss any treatment in detail, we have put together a few of the most common questions surrounding this treatment, giving you an insight into what to expect.
Firstly, let’s explain what dental implants actually are. The term “implant” refers to a titanium screw which is implanted into the gum, an extension will then be added to support a replacement tooth.
What Will the Implant Tooth Look Like?
It is important to note than your implant tooth will look very natural, seamlessly blending in next to your existing teeth. The replacement tooth will be made from a ceramic material, created by a specialist dental technician. As well as matching the colour of your teeth, the dental technician will also contour and shape the tooth to ensure it looks as natural as possible.
What are The Advantages of an Implant Over a Denture or Bridge?
The main difference and advantage between a dental implant and a bridge or denture, is that an implant is fixed in place. With a replacement tooth being fixed in place, you will have full confidence that it will not slip when talking, eating, drinking, laughing or carrying out any daily activity.
Another great advantage between a denture and an implant is that you will be able to taste more, as you will not have any plastic covering the roof of your mouth.
Whilst a bridge makes for a suitable solution for missing teeth, the teeth on either side of the gap need to be ground down for the anchors of the bridge. With a dental implant, however, no other teeth in the mouth need to be touched. An implant is, consequently, a more conservative solution.
Is the Procedure Painful?
Many people are concerned about the possibility of pain when they visit the dentist. With modern medicine and dental techniques coming on a long way, however, there is really no need to be concerned about pain. Your dental implant will be gently placed in your gum, under local anaesthetic. Whilst you may feel some discomfort during the days following the procedure, this is all part of the healing process and any discomfort can be alleviated with painkillers.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are a durable solution to replace missing teeth and can last many years. When studied over a 15-year period, dental implants had over a 95% success rate.
How Long Does Implant Dental Treatment Take?
The time it takes to complete the work required for your dental implant will all depend on the complexity of the case.
The entire treatment can take between 5-10 months. At your consultation, however, you will be advised of how many appointments it will take for the treatment to be completed, as well as the time that will need to be aloud for in between these appointments.
Are Dental Implants Expensive?
In the long-run, dental implants are a very cost-effective solution. Other solutions to replacing missing teeth may be cheaper, but implants are often seen as the gold standard when it comes to a fixed, comfortable and natural-looking replacement for missing teeth.
Is Everyone Suitable for a Dental Implant?
The minimum age for dental implants is often around 20 to 21, as the dentist will need to be sure that your jawbones have stopped growing. There is, however, no upper age limit for dental implants, as long as there is sufficient bone to hold the implant in place.
Certain medical conditions, especially those that affect the bone or healing, can make the treatment difficult. Your dentist will be able to advise whether you will be able to have implant treatment following your consultation.
Dental Implants at Love-Teeth Dental Practice
Here at Love-Teeth Dental Practice, we are fortunate enough to work alongside expert restorative dentist Dr Leo Klein, who has been placing and restoring dental implants for many years.
If you are not a suitable candidate for successful dental implants, Dr Leo Klein has a wide variety of other solutions to replace missing teeth, ensuring you can feel fully confident with your smile.
If you would like to book a consultation to discuss implants, please call us today on 0161 773 7080. Alternatively, send us your enquiry through our online contact form.
