Dental Implants are the highest standard of tooth replacement option available. Whether you want to replace one tooth, or multiple teeth, implants are a functionally and aesthetically pleasing solution.
A Dental Implant consists of a titanium fixture (or screw) that is surgically placed into the jaw bone. Over time, this fixture integrates with the bone and becomes fixed. This fixture acts as a tooth root. A porcelain crown is constructed attached to this fixture. The crown is the visible part of a tooth that is seen in the mouth.
Dental Implant therapy may span over the course of 3 – 6 months, depending on the complexity of the case. It takes time for bone to integrate with the titanium fixture, and so your dentist will advise you on the expected time frame and the number of appointments that you should expect.
Once Implant Therapy is complete, it must be understood that regular maintenance and review is required. A hygiene regime is advised and must be adhered to by the patient at home and regular visits to your dentist are required. Radiographs are required normally every 18months to detect any change underneath the clinically visible surface.
It is normally advised that a patient has a Check Up and Clean every 6 months – Implants cannot decay, however, they can become loose, fractured or suffer from gum disease, so it is important that any problems be detected early for action to be taken and treatment to be more successful.
The lifespan of an implant fixture can reach 30 + years. The attached crowns have a general lifespan of 7-10 years.
* Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner