What are dental implants?
Your complete guide to dental implants
Dental implants have revolutionised the world of dentistry, offering a long-lasting and natural-looking solution for people who may have lost one or even all of their teeth.
Whether because of injury, decay, or other health issues, missing teeth can affect not only your appearance but also your ability to eat, speak, and maintain proper oral hygiene.
Dental implants on the whole can seem pretty daunting, but we think that shouldn’t be the case. We’ve pulled together this comprehensive guide to go into detail about what dental implants are, the different types available, and why they might be the right choice for you.
Dental implants really have revolutionised the world of dentistry, offering a long-lasting and natural-looking solution for people who may have lost one or even all of their teeth. Whether because of injury, decay, or other health issues, missing teeth can affect not only your appearance but also your ability to eat, speak, and maintain proper oral hygiene.
Dental implants on the whole can seem pretty daunting, but we think that shouldn’t be the case. We’ve pulled together this comprehensive guide to go into detail about what dental implants are, the different types available, and why they might be the right choice for you.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that provide a super strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth designed to match the look and feel of your natural teeth. They are a popular and extremely effective way to replace missing teeth because they are designed to blend in seamlessly with your existing teeth. Dental implants are made from biocompatible materials, usually titanium, and they fuse with your jawbone to become a permanent part of your mouth and can last a lifetime with proper care.
The components of dental implants
A dental implant is usually made up of three main components:
The implant itself – This is the screw-like post made of titanium that is surgically inserted into the jawbone. The implant acts as the root of the missing tooth and fuses with the jawbone so that it won’t budge.
The abutment – Once the implant has fused with the jawbone, an abutment is attached to the top of the implant. The abutment serves as a connector between the implant and the artificial tooth (crown).
The crown – This is the only visible part of the tooth that is placed on top of the abutment. The crown is custom-made to match the colour, size, and shape of your natural teeth, so you can’t even tell that it is not real.
How do dental implants work?
Dental implants work by providing a perfectly stable foundation for replacement teeth by fusing with your jawbone. To explain the process fully, here’s a step-by-step overview of how the dental implant procedure typically works:
Initial consultation – The process begins with a consultation with us and our dental implant specialists. During this visit, we will evaluate your oral health, discuss your treatment goals, and determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. We will take X-rays or 3D scans to assess the condition of your jawbone and make sure that you are suitable for the treatment.
Implant placement – If you’re a suitable candidate, the next step is the surgical placement of the implant into the jawbone. We do this part of the procedure under local anaesthesia, and rest assured, there are sedation options available for those who are anxious about this step. The implant is surgically inserted into the bone, and the gum is stitched up to allow for proper healing.
Osseointegration – After the implant is placed, the process of osseointegration begins. It sounds super fancy, but this is when the implant fuses with the jawbone to create a strong and stable base. Osseointegration can take several months, during which time the bone grows around the implant and only once the implants are 100% fused can the final crowns be fitted.
Placement of the abutment – Once osseointegration is complete, the abutment is attached to the implant as this is needed for the crown (tooth part) to be able to attach to the implant. This procedure is relatively simple and involves reopening the gum to expose the implant before placing the abutment.
Final placement of the crown – The final and most exciting step is the placement of the crown, or the ‘fake tooth’ that sits on top of the abutment. The crown is custom-made in a dental lab to match your natural teeth and once it is in place, your dental implant will look, feel, and function just like a natural tooth.
Types of dental implants
When it comes to dental implants, one size definitely doesn’t fit all. Just as everyone’s smile is unique, so are the types of implants available to restore that smile. So, whether you’re replacing a single tooth or a whole arch, there’s a dental implant solution to fit.
Single tooth implant
Lost one tooth? Not a problem. A single tooth implant is the go-to solution when you just need to replace one missing tooth. It involves placing a single titanium post into your jawbone, topped off with a natural-looking crown. It’s as close as you can get to the real deal, and no one will know the difference.
Multiple teeth implants
Got a few missing teeth in a row? That’s where multiple teeth implants come into play. Instead of placing an individual implant for each tooth (there’s actually no need), two or more implants can anchor a bridge to fill in the gaps. It’s a great way to restore your smile without filling your jawbone with too many implants.
All-on-4 implants
If you’re missing an entire upper or lower set of teeth, the All-on-4 technique could be a great option, as using just four strategically placed implants, an entire arch of prosthetic teeth can be secured in place. This type of implant procedure requires less implants, has a quicker recovery time, and a whole new smile.
All-on-6 implants
Similar to All-on-4, but with a touch more added security, All-on-6 uses six implants to hold an entire arch of teeth. It’s a fantastic option for people with a bit more bone density, offering a stronger foundation and greater durability. So if you’re looking for long-lasting stability, All-on-6 might be your ticket to a permanent smile upgrade.
Denture implants
Dentures have come a long way, especially with denture implants, your dentures are anchored onto a few implants, giving you a fit that’s far more secure than traditional removable ones. No more worrying about your dentures slipping while you’re chatting, laughing, or eating your favourite foods. They simply click onto the implants, giving you confidence that your teeth are staying put.
Why choose dental implants?
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are often crowned the best in business, and for good reason. If you’re still on the fence about whether implants are worth it, let’s explore why so many people choose them over other options like bridges or dentures.
- They look and feel like natural teeth
One of the biggest reasons people go for dental implants is their natural look and feel. Implants are designed to mimic real teeth, right down to how they sit in your jawbone, so once your new tooth (or teeth) are in place, you’ll barely be able to tell the difference and the beauty is, neither will anyone else.
- They’re a long-lasting solution
Dentures or bridges may need to be replaced over time, but dental implants are built to last, and, with proper care, they can last a lifetime. Although they’re a bigger upfront investment, in the long run, they’re often the most cost-effective solution.
- They preserve jawbone health
One of the hidden benefits of dental implants is how they help maintain the health of your jawbone. This is because when you lose a tooth, the bone underneath it begins to deteriorate over time, so implants act as a substitute tooth root, stimulating the bone and preventing that dreaded bone loss which can lead to a sunken, aged appearance. So, by choosing implants, you’re not not only saving your smile, you’re actually preserving your face shape as well.
- They improve the comfort and function of your mouth
Anyone who’s struggled with traditional dentures knows they can sometimes slip or cause discomfort. Dental implants, on the other hand, are firmly anchored in your jaw, which means no more worries about shifting teeth. Dental implants allow you to eat, speak, and laugh with confidence.
- They require no extra maintenance than natural teeth
One of the best parts about dental implants – there’s no need for fancy cleaning routines as you treat them just like your natural teeth. Of course, this means brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups are needed but that is all it takes to keep them in great condition. Unlike dentures, there’s no need for soaking or adhesives – you just wake up and carry on with your day like usual.
How much do dental implants cost?
Our dental implants start at £2850 per tooth, but we believe everyone deserves to eat and smile with confidence, so if you can’t pay for your treatment up front, you can always spread them up to 5 years with our Easy Payment Plans.
A single dental implant from only £56 per month and fixed denture implants from £200 per month. That’s a fraction of a monthly food shop, without the worry of what you can and can’t eat.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
While dental implants are an excellent option for many patients, they may not be suitable for everyone. Factors such as overall health, bone density, and oral hygiene play a pretty big role in determining whether you are a good candidate for implants or not, which is why it is important to consult with our team of dental implant specialists who can assess your individual situation and recommend the best course of action.
Dental implants are a fantastic option for restoring missing teeth, offering a durable, natural-looking, and long-lasting solution to improving your oral health. Whether you’re missing one tooth or need a full set of replacements, dental implants can provide you with the confidence to eat, speak, and smile freely. The benefits of them go beyond aesthetics, like preserving jawbone health and protecting your remaining teeth, so it’s no wonder dental implants are a top choice for many people. If you’re looking for a reliable and permanent way to reclaim your smile, dental implants might just be the answer – get in touch with the team now for more help and advice.
