What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a titanium metal rod , which is placed into the jawbone. It is used to support one or more false teeth. In practice, both the false teeth and their supporting rod are known as 'implants.

Are Implants Safe? How Long Will They Last?

Implants are a well-established, tried-and-tested treatment. 90 per cent of modern implants last for at least 15 years.

I Have Some of My Own Teeth. Can I Still Have Implants?

Yes. You can have any number of teeth replaced with implants - from one single tooth, to a complete set. It depends on the state of the bone in your jaw. We will arrange for a number of special tests to assess the amount of bone still there. If there is not enough, or if it isn't healthy enough, it may not be possible to place implants without grafting bone into the area first.

Do Implants Hurt?

Placing the implants requires a small operation. This can be carried out under local anaesthetic with sedation, or with a general anaesthetic. The placement will therefore be painless, but you may feel some discomfort during the week following the surgery. This is usually due to having sutures (stitches) in place, and the normal healing process.

Can I Have The New Teeth Straight Away?

No. The implants need to bond (integrate) with the bone after they have been placed. This takes at least 3 months in the lower jaw, and 6 months in the upper jaw. If you are having one, two or three teeth replaced, you will have a temporary restoration in the meantime. If you have complete dentures, then these can be worn throughout the healing period once they have been modified after the surgery.

How Long Does Treatment Take?

From the initial assessment to the time when the artificial teeth or dentures are finally attached to the implants, is about 12 months. However, if only the lower jaw is involved then the whole process may be completed in around 5 months.

A lot depends on how complicated your treatment is. We will be able to give you a timetable once the surgery has been completed.

Are The Teeth Difficult To Clean?

Cleaning around the teeth attached to the implants is no more difficult than cleaning natural teeth. However, there may be areas that present particular problems and you'll be shown methods to help.

If I Had Gum Disease, When I Had My Own Teeth, Will I Get It With The Teeth Attached To The Implants?

Yes, if you don't care for them well enough. If you keep them clean, and don't smoke, then you should not have any problem.