General Dentistry
- Implants
- Crowns/bridges
- Dentures
Implants
Generally only patients with ample jawbone density and with no other predisposing risk factors are appropriate candidates for immediate loading of implants.
Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacing teeth that look, feel and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence. Dental implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.
They may cost more and take slightly longer to complete than bridges or dentures but they are the best choice for lifelong replacement..
Unlike bridges and dentures, they don’t rely on the surrounding teeth for support. They also help protect your neighbouring teeth by providing a solid foundation. They are implanted right into your jaw, which your bone will grow onto and thus, reducing your chance of bone loss. Without a root (or titanium post) in the jaw for bone to grow onto, bone loss will occur.
This will eventually lead to more tooth and bone loss. If left untreated you could end up with an empty mouth.
With an implant, the titanium posts are coated with a stimulant to promote bone growth. Your body bonds with the posts as it would with a real tooth root, yet it’s stronger than a natural root and tooth – like a bionic tooth.
Implants are not just functional. They can improve your overall appearance, thus improving your confidence. Implants can give you a natural look without the embarrassing possibility of dentures popping free. They also feel more like your original teeth, so you won’t have to go through that uncomfortable adjustment stage as with the other options.
Step one
The first stage of this procedure involves placing a small titanium screw (metal anchors) into your jawbone, which act as a tooth root substitute.
Titanium is an extremely biocompatible material and therefore integrates (via osseo- integration) with the bone tissue to form a new and stable tooth root. The implant fuses with the bone to form a solid structure. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums, gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures while eating a soft diet during this time.
Step two
After the bone has healed around the implant, small posts are then attached to it, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth. This is a ceramic or titanium component that ensures a secure fit between the dental implant and the crown. The dentist will start making your new teeth and an impression will be taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The replacement teeth are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.
Step three
Once the dental implant and the abutment are in place, we fit the porcelain crown up to the edge of the gum line to replicate a natural tooth. The dental implant is now complete. In most cases it is virtually impossible to see the difference between your own natural teeth and the new implant tooth.
Dentures
Dentures are false teeth worn to replace either all or only some of your missing teeth. They are one of the least invasive and cheapest options to replace missing teeth. These dentures are removable and are normally supported by the gums and remaining teeth in your mouth.
The dentist will make recommendations about your suitability as well as the type of denture required for your case. Denture appointments usually takes 2 to 4 visits over a 3-6 week period.