What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are meant to mimic the form and function of real teeth. They typically consist of two parts: a titanium cylinder ‘fixture’, which acts as a tooth’s roots, and a ‘prosthesis’, which attaches on top of the fixture and performs all the functions of a tooth.

First, the fixture will be surgically placed into the jawbone where a missing tooth should be. The prosthesis, which usually consists of a crown, dental bridge or denture, will only be inserted once the fixture has been tested to be completely fused into the bone and fully integrated with your body.

As dental implants can sustain all the bite forces and abilities of a natural tooth, they are vital to stimulate the jawbones. This prevents the bones from weakening and collapsing in the event of a missing tooth.

When Do I Need A Dental Implant?

People can lose teeth due to gum disease, tooth decay, or trauma, which can affect the way you eat, speak and look. In these situations, dental implants present one of the most effective solutions because a dental implant looks, feels and functions like a real tooth.People can lose teeth due to gum disease, tooth decay, or trauma, which can affect the way you eat, speak and look. In these situations, dental implants present one of the most effective solutions because a dental implant looks, feels and functions like a real tooth.

Dental implants are a fixed alternative to removable dentures or dental bridges, especially as they do not impact adjacent teeth. They can:

● Restore the ability to bite, chew and speak

● Prevent bone loss through biological stimulation

● Replace an individual tooth or be grouped to rebuild a whole smile

● Blend seamlessly with other natural teeth

● Support long-term jaw stability and strength

● Improve overall oral health in terms of force distribution and prevention of migration of other teeth.

What Is The Procedure For Receiving A Dental Implant?

When you receive a dental implant at Blackburn Family Dental Care, the process is thorough yet straightforward. First, we conduct a comprehensive health evaluation to assess your dental alignment, oral health, and jawbone density.

If we discover you have insufficient bone volume, you may need a grafting procedure to allow for the successful placement of implants. We will then work closely with our dental implant dentist to plan and design a suitable structure for the implant.

On the day of the procedure, the implant – a small rod usually made of titanium – will be inserted into your jawbone under local anaesthetic. This takes approximately 1 to 2 hours.

As titanium is very well tolerated by the body, implants will usually bond with the bone over a 3 to 4-month period – a process known as osseointegration – following which the implant will be uncovered. Finally, our dental implant dentist will construct and place a crown or bridge over the implant post.

Are Dental Implants safe?

For over 30 years, dental implants have proven to be a strong, safe foundation for replacing teeth. They are made from materials that work well with the human body, such as titanium. Our team of skilled dental professionals will conduct a comprehensive assessment to ensure that you are a suitable candidate for dental implants and will guide you every step of the way.

Post-treatment, you need to maintain good oral hygiene to ensure your dental implants remain trouble-free. Have a regular brushing and flossing routine, and be sure to attend regular dental check-ups. If well-cared for, implants can last a very long time – in a lot of cases even a lifetime.

Dental Implants or Dentures?

Dental implants are often the most popular choice for replacing one or multiple missing teeth. They give you a secure, sturdy bite and preserve jawbone and gum tissue health while most closely replicating the aesthetic appearance of your teeth.

However, dentures are an excellent alternative if you have several teeth missing and/or are not eligible for implants. For instance, if you have a medical condition like diabetes or struggle to quit smoking, there is a significantly higher chance that your implant will not osseointegrate or have post-operative complications. In these cases, a dental bridge or denture may be more suitable.

Although these are general guidelines, your dentist will discuss the risks and benefits of each option, tailored to your individual situation, with you. They can also provide expert advice on the differences between dental implants and dentures, as well as which treatment would best suit your needs.