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What Are Dental Implants?
A
dental implant is a titanium metal rod , which is placed into
the jawbone. It is used to support one or more false teeth. In
practice, both the false teeth and their supporting rod are known
as 'implants.
Are Implants
Safe? How Long Will They Last?
Implants are a well-established,
tried-and-tested treatment. 90 per cent of modern implants
last for at least 15 years.
I have some of my I Have Some Of My Own Teeth. Can I Still
Have Implants?
Yes. You can have any number of teeth replaced with implants
- from one single tooth, to a complete set. It depends on the
state of the bone in your jaw. We will arrange for a number
of special tests to assess the amount of bone still there.
If there is not enough, or if it isn't healthy enough, it may
not be possible to place implants without grafting bone into
the area first.
Do Implants Hurt?
Placing the implants requires a small operation. This can be
carried out under local anaesthetic with sedation, or with
a general anaesthetic. The placement will therefore be painless,
but you may feel some discomfort during the week following
the surgery. This is usually due to having sutures (stitches)
in place, and the normal healing process.
Can I Have The New Teeth Straight Away?
No. The implants need to bond (integrate)
with the bone after they have been placed. This
takes at least 3 months in the lower jaw, and 6
months in the upper jaw. If you are having one,
two or three teeth replaced, you will have a temporary
restoration in the meantime. If you have complete
dentures, then these can be worn throughout the
healing period once they have been modified after
the surgery.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
From the initial assessment to the time when the artificial teeth
or dentures are finally attached to the implants, is about
12 months. However, if only the lower jaw is involved then
the whole process may be completed in around 5 months.
A lot depends on how complicated your treatment is. We will
be able to give you a timetable once the surgery has been completed.
Are The Teeth Difficult To Clean?
Cleaning around the teeth attached to the implants is no more
difficult than cleaning natural teeth. However, there may be
areas that present particular problems and you'll be shown
methods to help.
If I Had Gum Disease When I Had My Own Teeth, Will I Get
It With The Teeth Attached To The Implants?
Yes, if you don't care for them well enough. If you keep
them clean, and don't smoke, then you should not have any problem.
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