If you have lost confidence in your smile, dental implants are a great option for those who have a missing tooth or teeth. Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth and are fixed into your jaw bone. At Andrew Lee Dentistry, we are experts in replacing teeth. We will help restore your smile with dental implants. Don’t hesitate and book your appointment with us today to get started.
What Are Teeth Implants?
Dental implants are small titanium screws fitted into the jaw bone to replace the tooth root. Implants are compatible with bridges, crowns and dentures and can be attached to the prosthesis when settled to complete replacing the missing teeth. Once the implant is joined, it should look and feel like natural teeth. The healing process can take between two to eight months.
How Are Teeth Implants Fitted?
In a procedure, dental implants are fitted into sockets in the jaw bone under local anaesthetic. Your dentist will then make a small incision in the gum and lift a small flap, this will give access to the jaw bone. A small opening will be drilled into the bone where the implant will be inserted and fixed. The gum flap will then be closed. It will be strange having a tooth or set of teeth there again but you will have renewed confidence in your smile! Contact Andrew Lee Dentistry to book your dental implant appointment with us.
Dental Implants Procedure
Dental implants are surgically placed into the jaw bone. Over several months, the surrounding bone will grow, holding the implant in place. Artificial teeth are then attached with a metal connector to the implant to fill the hole or holes. Before having the treatment you will have an assessment with your dentist to determine if you are suitable for the procedure. This involves assessing your mouth, taking X-rays and checking your medical history.
Each person will have a different experience during surgery. Factors that will influence this include:
- The number of teeth being replaced
- The location of the implants
- The patient’s oral and physical health
- The quality and quantity of the bone
After you have undergone surgery, you must continue to brush and floss your teeth daily as artificial teeth require the same maintenance as regular teeth. Your dentist will schedule a follow-up appointment with you to monitor the implants to make sure that your mouth is healthy. It is important to see your dentist every 6 months for professional cleanings.
How Long Do Teeth Implants Last
Dental implants are a permanent solution to tooth loss. However, the longevity of your dental implants all depends on how you look after them. Other factors where your dental implants can fail can be due to having any medical conditions but also if you are a smoker or have insufficient bone to sustain the implant.
Benefits of Getting Teeth Implants
There are numerous benefits of getting implants. These include:
- Comfortable and has a natural appearance – they match the shape, size and shade of your existing teeth
- Permanently fixed – they are fixed to your jaw bone so you won’t need to worry about removing them as you would with dentures for instance
- Long-lasting – Dental implants can last up to 15 years if properly cared for
- Prevents bone loss – They act like natural teeth which stimulates the jaw bone
- Eat with ease – You will be able to enjoy your favourite meals and snacks that you wouldn’t be able to do with missing teeth
Can I Get Dental Implants On The NHS
Dental implants are normally only available privately and are expensive. However, they can be available on the NHS for patients who cannot wear dentures or for those whose face and teeth have been damaged. Referring to patients with mouth cancer or accidents where a tooth has been knocked out.
How Long Do Dental Implants Take to Heal
It usually takes a single tooth implant around 6-12 weeks to completely heal. This is because your new tooth root will connect with your jaw bone and become stronger. Your upper jaw will take a little longer to heal because the bone is softer and the lower jaw bone is denser.
Best Teeth Implants Near Me
If you’re missing teeth because of gum disease, tooth decay or from an injury, and are considering getting dental implant surgery, you should book an appointment with one of our dentists at Andrew Lee Dentistry, and they will decide if dental implants are the right fit for you.
