A Little Bit About Implants
Dental implants are one of the most effective treatments available for many cases including missing teeth, and denture stabilization.
A dental implant is a metal post that replaces the root of a tooth. They can be and effective treatment for many different dental conditions where teeth have been lost. Having a dental implant is a reliable and attractive solution.
SINGLE TOOTH REPLACEMENT
A single tooth implant is independent of your other teeth unlike bridges and dentures. It looks better and is easy to keep clean. It is kept clean in exactly the same way as your other teeth. Single tooth implants can be used to replace front and back teeth.
The procedure is fairly straight forward. A small incision is made in the gum and a hole made in the bone before inserting the implant. Sometimes if the bone is inadequate a bone graft is required. Once placed the implant is left to heal for 6-8 weeks before the tooth is placed onto the implant. During this period the implant will fuse with the jaw bone in a process called osseointegration.
Multiple Tooth Replacement
Implant bridges to replace several missing teeth. If you have lost several teeth as a result of an accident or injury then you are basically looking at replacement with a bridge implant system. A dental bridge involves attaching teeth onto more than one implant to replace several missing teeth. These teeth can be cemented or screwed onto the implants. Bridges are constructed from a variety of materials such as ceramic, porcelain or a combination of metal and porcelain.
The procedure involves several stages which begin with initial diagnosis, x-rays, surgery and impressions. After surgery the implants are allowed to heal for a period of 6-8 weeks before insertion of the final bridge.
Stabilization of loose dentures
There are a variety of reasons why people are unable to tolerate or wear traditional removable dentures
LOWER JAW: Losing your lower teeth can lead to bone loss if they are not replaced. If a substantial amount of bone loss occurs, the lower jaw bone may not be able to support a denture. Inserting implants into the lower jaw bone provides a solid foundation for a denture that otherwise a patient may not have been able to wear.
UPPER JAW: Some people may not be able to wear a traditional upper denture because of an oversensitive gag reflex. Having upper implants allows the size of the denture base to be reduced and made into an arch shape, rather than occupying the entire palate.
The advantages of having implant retained dentures are:
They are much more secure and comfortable than traditional removable dentures
You won’t even feel like you’re wearing dentures
Your ability to eat and speak will improve
Implants prevent the bone loss that occurs when you leave missing teeth, allowing your facial structure to be maintained
The lip support provided by implants will reduce the amount of wrinkles you get around your mouth
Dr Yash Khan offers free consultations for patients interested in dental implants to establish their suitability and provide information on the process. If you would like to learn more about implants and how they could benefit you, please call us to book your free consultation.