What is a dental implant ?

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a prosthetic replacement for a lost tooth. Natural teeth consist of the crown and the root. The crown is the visible section that is covered with white enamel. Supporting the crown is the tooth root which extends into the jawbone. The root is the part of the tooth that is effectively replaced by an implant.

There are commonly three parts to what is described as an implant - the implant device itself (which is inserted directly into the bone); the abutment - the piece that connects the implant device to the third part - the overlying crown or denture.

Are implants safe and how long will they last?

Implants are a safe, well-established treatment. It's probably true to say that implantations, much like normal teeth, will last for as long as you care for them.

How well you look after your implants - and whether you go for your regular maintenance appointments - will have the biggest impact on how long they will last.

If you don't look after your implants they will develop a coating similar to what you get on neglected natural teeth. Left untreated, this can lead to gum infection, bleeding, soreness and general discomfort. You could get all these difficulties with natural teeth.

If your implants are well looked after, and if the bone they are fitted to is strong and healthy, you can expect them to last for many years. However, just as with other surgical implants (such as a hip replacement) there is no lifetime guarantee.

How long does the dental implants treatment take?

Our dental team will be able to give you a rough timetable before the treatment starts.

Some wrong teeth can now even be fitted at the same time as the implants (these are called ‘immediate implants'). Check with your dental team to see whether these are suitable for you. Usually the false teeth are fitted 3 to 4 months after the implants are put in. Sometimes treatment takes longer and your dental team will be able to talk to you about your treatment time.

Do implants hurt?

Placing an implant is often easier than taking a tooth out and is usually done using a simple local anesthetic. You will not feel any pain at the time but, just like after an removal, you may feel some discomfort during the week after the surgery.

Sometimes your dentist might give you a calming if you are very nervous or if the case is a complicated one. General anesthetics are rarely used for implants and are generally only used for very complicated cases.

Poor oral hygiene is a big reason why some implants fail. It is important to floss and brush around the fixtures at least twice a day. Your dentist will give you specific instructions on how to care for your new implants. Additional cleanings of up to four times per year may be necessary to ensure that you retain healthy gums.