Replacing a missing tooth with an implant..

Replacing a missing tooth with an implant..

If you have missing teeth, you may be thinking about replacing them. Replacing missing teeth can improve appearance, let you eat more comfortably, speak more clearly and help to keep your mouth healthy.

A dental implant is a titanium rod that your dentist will place in your jawbone. Once the implant has been placed, it is left to heal and integrate with the jawbone for between six weeks to six months. It holds a false tooth (or teeth) in place. Dentures or bridges can be screwed or clipped onto the implant.

Dental implants have been used for over 30 years to replace missing teeth and they can last a lifetime depending on how well you look after them.

Dental implants can be placed in patients of any age (with fully developed jawbones), provided that they have a sufficient quantity and quality of bone tissue available. Most healthy individuals that maintain a good oral hygiene program are suitable candidates for dental implants. Circumstances where implants may not be suitable, or situations that have an increased risk of implant failure, include:

• Heavy smoking – this slows down and hinders the healing process.
• Excessive alcohol intake – disrupts healing of the gums.
• Periodontal gum disease – all active gum disease must be treated prior to any implant procedure to ensure the long-term success of any treatment. Periodontal disease is a major cause of bone loss, which would hinder the success of any implant procedure.
• Immuno-compromised individuals (steroids, auto-immune disease, patients undergoing radiation treatment).
• Teeth grinders (bruxism) – a night-time splint can be given to treat this

Before any implants are placed, it is important for your dentist to assess the health of your teeth and gums. If there are any signs of gum disease or decay, these must first be treated. Thereafter, your treatment will be planned following several x-rays and, in some cases, a CT scan to assess that bone quality.

For more information about dental implants at Hello Dental visit…

https://hellodental.digimax.uk/treatment/dental-implants/