Dental implants are the most advanced way to replace a missing tooth or teeth. It is a replacement root usually made of titanium which is implanted into the jaw in areas where a tooth or teeth have been lost.
This then acts as a root and a replacement tooth can then be fixed to it in a similar way as a crown. Implants are currently the closest solution you will find to natural teeth.
Implants can be used to:
– replace one tooth (implant / crown)
– replace multiple teeth (e.g. implant and 3 unit bridge)
– replace all teeth (Same day / teeth in a day)
– support removable dentures
Although it is impossible to beat or replicate a healthy natural tooth, it is often reported by patients that implants look, feel and function like natural teeth.
What does the dental implant treatment involve?
Most dental implants are placed under local anaesthesia similar to that used for fillings or extractions. They are inserted into the jawbone after incisions are made in the gums.
After a period of time the bone into which the implant is placed will attach to the surface of the implant. A small metal pin is then fitted onto the implant upon which a final restoration in the form of a crown or bridge or over-denture is fixed.
The time required to complete implant treatment is different for each patient and depends on the complexity of the treatment and their individual treatment plan.