If you have gaps in your smile where your permanent teeth used to reside, you may find that more is missing from your life than just teeth. You may also miss out on good nutrition and even social engagements. It doesn't have to be that way, though. Dental implants are often the best option to fill the gaps left by tooth loss. Many people find that dental implants are more comfortable, efficient and secure than are dentures or bridgework. Listen to the patients:
“I have had dental implants for about seven years. I had no trouble adjusting to them. My dentures no longer move around and that helps me to speak clearer. I have more confidence when I am talking face to face or on the phone. No longer do I get sore spots and I have had no further bone loss. I can also eat what I want and I chew much better.”
“When somebody asks me which teeth are mine, I have to think about it. They feel wonderfully natural, and look beautiful. I'm so glad. For the first time in 40 years I am able to eat steak and apples.”
“The two things I remember most about my dental implants are how fast and painless the procedure was, and how completely normal I felt the next morning. Now that the crown has been attached to my implant, It feels like my original tooth.”
What are dental implants?
A dental implant is nothing more than a titanium screw that is placed into the jaw bone. Titanium metal is used because of its compatibility with bone and oral tissues. It acts as an anchor for a false tooth or a set of false teeth. After the bone has grown around the implant, implants can hold a crown, bridge or over-denture. Implants can last a lifetime and require the same maintenance as natural teeth; this includes brushing, flossing and regular dental check-ups.
Why replace missing teeth?
If the gap produced by missing teeth is left for long enough, the neighbouring teeth can start to migrate from their proper positions, creating misalignment, which in turn leads to gum disease, and/or bite problems and headaches (TMJ syndrome). There is also a progressive bone loss, which ends up altering the appearance of the patient’s face.
Are implants expensive?
Typically in the United Kingdom a single tooth implant around £2000 plus the additional cost of the crown. Our patients have their painless implant procedure done with the highest standards of care, for a surprisingly lower cost and the best quality – cost ratio. The anaesthesia is of course local and the procedure takes about 20 minutes per tooth.
Dental Implants vs. bridges or dentures
The use of dental implants is becoming routine, the procedure itself is quite easy and predictable. Considering the alternatives, implant dentistry are good for your health. Dental implants avoid altering your adjacent teeth like a bridge does because neighbouring teeth are not modified to support the implant. Your own teeth are left untouched, a significant long-term benefit to your oral health and for your economy.
Dentures will fit more securely and comfortably with an overdenture implant. This will minimize any discomfort and movement (slipping) that is common with normal dentures. Many older adults are turning towards dental implant supported dentures for their greater comfort and confidence with dentures. Many people are often able to eat the foods they couldn’t with their old dentures.
