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Summary : Dental implants can be used on there own to replace a single tooth or several may be used to support a bridge or retain a denture. Dentists undertake extra training before placing implants. | ||||
| Dental implants have revolutionised dentistry since their introduction as lost teeth can be effectively replaced without the need for a denture or bridge.
Ferquently Asked Questions Do they screw into the bone? The implants are placed tightly inside a hole which is drilled into the bone. The bone then grows closely around the implant and holds it in place. The implants are not actually 'screwed' into the bone. |
| How long do I have to wait before the teeth are fitted?
This depends on which jaw that the implant was placed in together with the number of teeth that it will replace. In some cases the patient may have to wait upto 9 months before the final crowns are placed. I have full dentures and my lower one is loose, could I have implants? Implants may be used not only to replace a single tooth but also provide support for a denture or bridge. Many people with lower dentures have problems eating or speaking as the denture is loose and moves around. With age the ridge of bone is lost in the lower jaw and this problem will only increase. The placement of one or two implants in the lower jaw will provide sufficient support and stability for a denture, thus improving the life of the patient. Below we outline several options for persons with no lower teeth. |
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| Six implants allow a lower denture to be made which is stable and will not rock. | Once in position, the denture is screwed onto the implants so that it won't come out or lift up. | ||||||||
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| A cheaper and simpler alternative is to place two implants which are connected by a bar. | The denture then clips onto this bar and won't slide around.As the denture clips in, it can be removed by the patient and cleaned. | ||||||||
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| What is the success rate?
Dental implants are more successful in the lower jaw as the bone is denser and more solid than the upper jaw. Recent studies show that 95% of implants in the lower jaw are successful as opposed to 90% of those placed in the upper jaw. These figures may be lower though depending on the type of construction which is placed on top. Single tooth replacements are generally more successful than large arch reconstructions(bridges with many teeth). Can everybody have implants? Certain medical conditions significally reduce the chance of success and therefore dentists won't place implants in some patients. Smokers have a very poor rate of success with implants, they should either stop smoking altogether or choose a different option for restoring their dentition. How much do they cost? In the UK the average cost for a single tooth implant is approximately £1500. This price is a guide and may vary due to geographic location and the particular surgeon involved. |
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Placing implants is a complicated procedure. In this section we outline the sequence of treatment. | |||
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