Replacing a missing tooth with a cheap implant can be a horrendous and expensive mistake that is likely to end in regret. When it comes to oral hygiene, you can’t afford to go cheap. Insufficient implants can lead to more problems down the line, often requiring additional fixings and in some cases, complete renewals.
Losing a tooth can be a nerve-wrecking experience but a high quality dental implant can bring back the sensation, function and aesthetics of the original tooth. A dental implant is needed when the patient has a missing tooth and requires one or more false teeth to be supported.
An artificial root is secured into the jawbone whilst a crown is placed on top to restore the original form of the missing tooth. Implants can be used to replace a number of missing teeth, retaining dentures and they can even aid with orthodontic procedures. With excellent success rates, it is no surprise that Docklands Dental use Straumann and ZimVie (formerly 3i) implants rather than opting for a cheaper and less effective alternative.
How Do These Implants Differ from Regular Implants?
For a more specific and detailed design, we use titanium implants designed by Straumann and by ZimVie (formerly 3i). Unfortunately, implants can often damage the bone over a period of time. This can be quite a problem as it is close to impossible to redo the implant. However, each implant system is unique in its composition and parts. This means that it is less likely to cause a problem 5 or even 10 years down the line. Both systems have been on the market for decades and carry long published clinical records, which is the reason we use them.
How Does It Work?
A small surgical procedure is then required to place the implant into the bone. For Docklands Dental patients that surgery is carried out at ISCD (the Institute of Specialist and Cosmetic Dentistry) by specialist oral surgeon Dr Marie O’Neill, and the crown that goes on top is made and fitted at Docklands Dental. Whilst this may sound like a complete nightmare, it’s actually considered to be an easier procedure than having a tooth removed. However, if you find the thought alone makes your tummy flutter with nerves, you always have the option to undergo the procedure under sedation. This will help to minimise stress levels and usually is the chosen option for nervous patients. Following the initial procedure, a period of approx. 8 to 12 weeks is needed to allow the implant to heal and fuse with the bone. This ensures that a stable anchor for the crown is in place.
Do I Need an Implant?
Sometimes it can be difficult to know if you need an implant or not. Seeking professional advice from your dentist is the best way to determine whether or not you need an implant as well as how many is required. The most common reasons patients require implants is due to a missing tooth at the front or back of the mouth.
If you have multiple missing teeth, it’s possible for 3 porcelain implant crowns to be attached to two implants. You may also require an implant under complete dentures. This will help to improve the fit and comfort of the dentures, as well as improving your ability to chew as naturally as possible.
Dental Implants: Advantages Vs Disadvantages
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To Discuss dental implants, give us a call on: 01 636 0192
Comparing implant quotes? You can book an appointment online or call 01 636 0192 and we will arrange an implant assessment with one of our dentists.
