Dental Implants
Dental implants are a big decision, so it’s important to consider all the facts against your needs before making a decision. They are a long-term solution for missing teeth, implanted into the jaw to work like normal teeth. The implant in your jaw functions as the root, where an artificial tooth can then be placed.
Once fitted, these implants will restore your bite, help with speech impediments caused by missing teeth and enhance appearance.
Implants are widely used to this day, despite alternatives advancing over the years, with many opting for this long-term replacement solution.
How will the procedure go?
- First consult and initial consultation with a dentist- before any treatment can begin, your dentist must start by examining your remaining teeth and your overall oral health. It is essential to ensure your jawbone is safe to have the titanium rods surgically implanted, so you will more than likely need 3D images and scans taken for thorough examination. Your dentist will also go through your medical history and any conditions you have, so the appropriate medications can be prescribed prior if necessary.
- Talk through the procedure- Your dentist will explain exactly how the procedure works, what to expect after and discuss results. This will include talks about what you can and can’t eat beforehand, anaesthesia and other pain relief, plus how to care for your implants following the surgery.
- The big day- your implant procedure. Your implant will be permanently screwed into your gum. This will help it function as a normal tooth, since it will look and feel natural. A singular implant takes an hour or two to fit in, and afterward you may experience swelling, bruising and some bleeding. Pain medication can alleviate the after-effects of the procedures in the first few days.
- What to expect after- you will need to take care when eating following the procedure, and stick to soft foods as your implant site heals. The healing process can take anywhere from 6-12 weeks, and it’s best to be cautious in this period as the bone fuses to the metal. Visit your dentist regularly and maintain good hygiene to get the best out of your implants.
NHS Criteria for dental implants
Most dental implant cases will not be offered on the NHS, but private dental care will cover this. On private dental care, dental implants can cost anywhere from £1500 to £5000, depending on the practice you choose for treatment. It’s bets to speak with your dentist to check if you qualify, and explore private options.
You may qualify for NHS treatment if you meet any of the following:
- Cannot wear dentures
- Severe face and teeth damage
- Had an accident that caused your missing tooth, such as having it knocked out
- Had mouth cancer
is it worth it? pros and cons for you to weigh up:
Positives:
- Depending on how well you care for them, dental implants can last anywhere from 20-30 years, making them a good long term treatment.
- There’s no need to worry about the risk of decay or cavities with implants, as they are artifical.
- Age is not a factor in eligibility for dental implants.
Negatives:
- Risk of infection at the implant site
- Damage to surrounding areas
- May need extra surgical preparation beforehand, such as jawbone grafting. This can make the process of getting implants longer as healing time will be required.
- You will have to avoid foods like hard candy and ice.
Are there alternative ways of replacing missing teeth?
Over the last decade, other options for replacement teeth have also grown in popularity. Many choose not to go through a surgical process to get natural teeth, and if you’re looking for other alternatives, you may want to consider the following:
- Dentures- a set of artificial replacement teeth to fit into the mouth.
- Veneers- a protective, custom-made shell to cover the front of the tooth
- Crowns- false teeth designed to fit over damaged teeth.
did you know?
- According to 44dental, 15 million people worldwide have had dental implants since they were introduced into dentistry.
- Dental implants are one of the most popular options for replacing missing teeth.
- Unlike other dental treatments, implants are easy to care for- simply keep up your good oral hygiene routine.
- Titanium, which is used to make the implants, is also used in the making of NASA spacecrafts.
