When there is a space where teeth have been lost, a dental implant can be used to support one or more false teeth. An implant is a titanium screw that can replace the root of a tooth when it fails. Just like a tooth root, an implant is placed into the jawbone. Implants are the closest restoration we have to a natural tooth.
Implants must be well looked after and can develop problems if they are not maintained correctly. If the bone surrounding an implant is strong and healthy, you can expect them to last for many years. However, just as with other surgical implants (such as a hip replacement) there is no lifetime guarantee.
How well you look after your implants, and whether your regular maintenance appointments are attended will have the biggest impact on how long they will last.
If implants are not cared for they can develop a coating similar to that found on neglected natural teeth. Left untreated, this can lead to gum infection, bleeding, soreness and general discomfort; all problems which can also occur on natural teeth. In cases of severe neglect, the implant may fail. Placing an implant is often straight forward once the correct planning has been done and implants are usually placed under local anaesthetic. Implant placement is usually pain free but you should expect to feel some discomfort for approximately 7 – 10 days after the procedure.
During the planning stages of implants a number of tests are done to ensure good quality and quantity of bone is present in the implant area. If the bone present is lacking in its quantity or quality, it may not be possible to place implants without grafting bone into the area first. Should this be indicated, the dentist will discuss this with you.
Before commencing treatment, we will provide you with an overview of the procedure outlining what is involved, costs and any further relevant information.