Dental Implants

Dental implants are the long term solution to replacing missing teeth. Not only do they look like natural teeth, they function in a similar way to your teeth. If you have suffered from tooth loss for any reason, dental implants could be the solution to restoring a full set of natural looking teeth and restoring your confidence.

What are implants?

Dental implants are a safe, tried and tested way of replacing missing teeth. They are not prone to decay like normal teeth and are a good long term solution. Implants are made from titanium, which are inserted into the bone. Over 3-6 months, the implant fuses and integrates with the bone, making it stronger and allowing it to support a crown or denture.

What are common complications of dental implants?

  • Screw loosening
  • Breakages of the porcelain that covers the crown
  • Infection around the neck of the implant
  • Poor Oral Hygiene

Regular dental check ups are required to prevent these issues occurring.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

  • An enhanced, natural-looking smile
  • Helps to reduce bone loss
  • Improves eating and speaking ability
  • Stand alone, neighbouring teeth remain unaffected

What are the other options to replace teeth?

  • Dentures
  • Minimal Preparation Bridges
  • Conventional Bridges

Your dentist will be able to discuss advantages and disadvantages of each option and help you choose the most suitable treatment.

Dentures

A denture is a removable replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Two types of dentures are available — complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. They are non invasive so making them ideal in certain situations.

Minimum Preparation Bridges

These require very little or no preparation of neighbouring teeth and are simply stuck onto the tooth adjacent to the gap. They work best replacing anterior teeth but sometimes can fall off. Their suitability is dependent on your bite which will be assessed by your dentist.

Conventional Bridges

These are the traditional way of replacing the missing teeth in a non removable fashion. They are strongly fitted into place and provide good They require preparation of adjacent teeth which can make them vulnerable to nerve damage, fracture and possible risk of decay. As they are cemented in place, they can last for many years as well as providing good aesthetics.