Smiles Dental – dental implants
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are a small titanium screw, that replaces the root portion of a missing natural tooth before being covered with a crown. Due to the biocompatible properties of titanium, the dental implant fuses with the bone and becomes a secure anchor for the replacement tooth. Dental implants can be used to replace either a single tooth (single implant) or multiple teeth (multiple implants) in both the upper and lower jaw. Dental implants have revolutionised restorative dentistry. They are the most advanced technological treatment option available. They offer permanent replacement to loose and missing teeth and can be an alternative to wearing dentures, rebuilding confidence with a functional and secure smile.
Will dental implants work for me?
If you are missing a tooth or teeth due to injury, disease or tooth decay, you may be a candidate for dental implants. Your dentist will assess your suitability based on the amount of available bone. It might be that other approaches are recommended, such as a crown, a bridge or dentures.
What are the advantages of dental implants?
- A secure and permanent solution to missing teeth
- Dental implants can stop the process of jawbone shrinkage which may cause your face to look older
- With traditional bridges, adjacent teeth are normally ground down to provide anchors. Dental implants can eliminate the need to modify healthy teeth
- Renewed ability to chew and speak properly
- Reduction of possible gum problems and infections
- Increased confidence and self-esteem as a result of all of the above
Will my new teeth look natural?
Combined with modern restorative dentistry, their appearance, comfort and function are very likely to exceed your expectations. Dental implants are often hard to tell apart from your natural teeth.
The dental implant process
Your Smiles Dental clinician will evaluate your case and create an individual treatment plan informing you of the treatments and costs involved.
Phase 1
Your clinician will carefully insert your implants before placing a protective cover over them. The initial implant normally takes approximately 45 minutes – three hours and is under local anaesthetic (conscious sedation is also offered). The dental implant integrates with the bone of your jaw over a period of three to six months, as the bone grows around the screw and holds it firmly in place. (A temporary denture may need to be worn during this phase).
Phase 2
A crown is placed over the implant to replace the original natural tooth after the implant has mended to the bone.
Quality assurance
Having a dental implant is a lifelong investment. At Smiles Dental, our dentists have chosen the following dental implant systems for their proven research background to support their products.
- Bicon Dental Implants
- Straumann Implants
- Ankylos Implants
- Astra Tech
- Nobel Biocare
Based on the results of a comprehensive examination, your dentist will recommend the dental implant most appropriate to your needs. For more information about the treatments available and their cost, visit Smiles Dental price list.
