Dental Implants for Missing Teeth
Missing teeth need
not be the social
embarrassment that
is once was.
Have confidence in your smile again!
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is essentially a titanium
substitute for a natural root and commonly it is
screw or cylinder shaped. Each implant is
placed into a socket carefully made at the
precise location of the intended tooth.
If you are missing just one natural tooth,
then one implant is normally all that will be
needed to provide a replacement. Larger
spaces created by two, three or more missing
teeth do not necessarily need one implant per
tooth, however the exact number of implants
will depend upon the quality and volume of
bone at each potential implant site.
Loose dentures can be held securely in place, two or more implants can act as a stable base and make a new denture comfortable and secure. No more denture fixitive or embarrassing moving teeth.
If you have no teeth in the jaw, and are not yet ready for multiple implant placements, a conventional lower denture can be considerably improved with two implants placed beneath the front section - this is called an 'overdenture'. Implant-supported overdentures, just like conventional dentures are still removed for daily cleaning, however, once back in the mouth, the implants make them much more stable.
There are many options and every case can be dealt with in a number of ways. You will therefore need to talk to someone who has examined your mouth thoroughly, before having a clear idea as to what is possible.
A full consultation, examination and radiography is required in order to ensure your dental health and plan the best treatment options.
Dental implant treatment typically is more expensive than other forms of tooth replacement but as the treatment has been shown to last longer it is more cost effective in the long term.
More complex situations involving grafting are sometimes required and these procedures can be arranged for you with a specialist oral surgeon.
For more information see our leaflet on implants and the ADI website.
Before & After
