Why choose a Dental Implant?

Teeth can sometimes be lost due to gum disease, tooth decay or trauma. This loss can result in a whole plethora of problems. Dental implants can improve how you eat and speak, prevent shrinkage of the jawbone, and keep existing teeth firmly in place. Cosmetic dental implants allow patients to regain full function and smile confidently with a naturally appearing smile.

Dental implants offer one of the most effective fixed alternatives treatments to removable dentures or dental bridges. Replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant is considered to be the closest likeness to a natural tooth possible. A tooth implant looks and feels like an authentic tooth, and as an added benefit they can also prevent bone loss through biological stimulation. The use of modern implants can be life changing. Cosmetic dental implants can be used individually to replace a lost tooth or grouped together to help rebuild a whole smile.

At Blackburn Family Dental Care we use only the highest quality dental implants (implant systems that have been well researched) to ensure great results. Together with the use of the latest technology, we are able to achieve great results and success that will give you years of service from your dental implants.

What exactly are Dental Implants?

A tooth implant consists of 2 parts. The first, a ‘fixture’, mimics the tooth’s natural roots and typically consists of titanium cylinder, is surgically placed into the upper or lower jawbone. After placement, the fixture will fuse with the jawbone until it is fully integrated and becomes part of your body. The second part is the ‘prosthesis’, which is what is attached to the fixture, typically consists of a crown, a dental bridge or a denture. The prosthesis is inserted once the appropriate tests are performed to ensure the fixture has integrated with your bone. Dental implants work like real teeth with real roots, they can stimulate the jaw bones to prevent it from weakening and collapsing. Each tooth can sustain all of the bite forces and abilities of a natural tooth.

What happens during your treatment?

We carry out a full assessment of your general health to see how your teeth fit together, your oral health and the density of your jaw bone. If we discover you have insufficient bone volume, you may need a grafting procedure to allow for the successful placement of implants.

A dental implant is a small rod, usually made of titanium, that is inserted into the bone of your jaw under local anaesthetic. Titanium is very well tolerated by the body, so over a period of 3-4 months the implants will bond with the bone – a process known as osseo-integration. After that time the implant is uncovered and then used just as we would a dental root to restore a bridge or as a crown. Once settled in and fully healed, our dental implant dentist can fit replacement teeth to the now firmly positioned implants.

Are Dental Implants safe?

Dental implants have proven to be a safe and effective solution for replacing teeth for over 30 years. Made from materials that work well with the human body, dental implants serve as a strong and safe foundation for replacement teeth.

Aftercare

You need to maintain good oral hygiene following treatment to ensure your implants remain trouble-free. If well looked after, with a regular brushing and flossing routine, they can last for a very long time, sometimes even a lifetime. You should also attend regular check-ups so our dentists can make sure your dental implants and dentures stay in great condition.

Dental Implants or Dentures?

Dental implants are often the most popular choice for replacing one or two missing teeth. They are the preferred option for replacing teeth because they preserve the health of the jawbone and gum tissue while most closely replicating the aesthetic appearance of your teeth. Dental implants give patients a secure, sturdy bite, while dentures can be tricky to wear, less secure, and can even restrict your food choices. However, dentures are popular if you have several teeth missing and they are an excellent alternative for patients who are not eligible for implants. If you have a medical condition like Diabetes, or if you can’t quit smoking, there is a significantly higher chance that your implant will not osseo-integrate or have post operative complications, in such cases a dental bridge or a denture may be a better option for you.