Dental Implants
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Just like a tooth root, it is placed into the jaw and becomes fused to the jawbone, becoming a very long-lasting replacement. The implant is then used to support a replacement tooth or a bridge if replacing multiple missing teeth. Restoring a smile with implants is the next best thing to having your own natural teeth.
Teeth can be lost as a result of gum disease, dental decay and injury. Having a missing tooth can greatly impact self-confidence, especially if the gap is visible when you smile. While there are different options available for replacing missing teeth, implants are the best solution as they are long-lasting, secure, and strengthen your jaw. Implants are also incredibly versatile and can even be used to retain dentures.
If you have enough bone density, then having an implant will not be a problem. Your implant needs plenty of bone to fuse to so we first assess the health of your jaw. If there has been any loss of bone tissue, then you may require a bone graft.
At Cwmbran Dental Care, we will advise you on whether implants are a suitable option for you and what your alternatives are. We then refer you to an experienced implantologist for assessment and treatment. They talk the whole process through with you and give you a fully costed treatment plan.
Just like with natural teeth, implants will last for many years, if you keep up with a regular and thorough cleaning routine. While the replacement teeth are resistant to bacteria, the supporting gum tissue and bone are not. Keeping your mouth clear of bacteria will make sure your implants last for many years and help you avoid a form of gum disease, called ‘peri implantitis’ that can affect implant roots and cause them to fail. Our hygienists at Cwmbran Dental Care are very experienced at gently cleaning around your implants and giving you advice on home care.
In the UK, all dental practices and dental laboratories are regulated, audited and inspected. In many countries they are not. This can lead to problems due to poor workmanship and lower quality materials being used. Dentists in the UK have compulsory insurance should anything go wrong and a procedure for handling problems. Some other countries do not have systems with the same level of follow up care and support for patients.
Dental implants are strong, secure and supportive - essentially functioning just like natural teeth. They are a well established, safe and very effective way to replace one or more missing teeth, with the end result highly aesthetic, blending seamlessly into your smile.
We use local anaesthetic during treatment, so you remain comfortable throughout and won’t feel any pain. Post treatment, you will likely experience some discomfort, which can be managed with painkillers advised by your dentist. Implant treatment is often less painful than a tooth extraction, and you should be able to return to your normal daily activities the next day.
The whole implant process, from missing teeth to beautiful fixed replacements, can take several months. The surgery itself is relatively quick, but the implants then need around 3-6 months to heal and fuse to your jawbone before replacement teeth can be fitted. Any additional treatment, such as a bone graft, will add to the total treatment time, but your new smile will definitely be worth the wait!
No, implants look, feel and function just like natural teeth. When combined with a highly aesthetic crown or bridge, the replacement tooth blends perfectly into your smile and can’t be picked out as different.
