Dental implants are used to maintain existing individual crowns, bridges or dentures by providing restorations. Not only do these restorations look the most authentic but they minimise the amount of uncomfortable drilling too, making them a great option for many patients. So if you’re considering getting dental implants in the Solihull area, read on to find out more about the process.
What is an implant?
An implant is usually a screw or cylinder shaped piece of specially designed dental technology which takes the place of a tooth’s natural root.
What are they made from?
Almost all dental implants in use today are made from titanium or titanium alloy. These materials are very strong and robust, are lightweight and have been proven to be tolerated well by bone.
What is an Osseointegrated implant?
This term simply describes the way that bone grows right up to the surface of the implant and bonds the two together at a microscopic level. When this process occurs the implant becomes even more secure in its new position.
How many teeth can an implant support?
One implant will be sufficient for supporting one tooth but if you need to support more teeth you will not necessarily require more implants. One implant for example may be enough to support two or more teeth.
How do I prepare for implants?
Before your implant surgery your dentist will need to find out about the quality of bone in your mouth. This will be done by X-ray or CT scan.
For the procedure itself most patients have a local anaesthetic, although some patients will choose to have a general anaesthetic.
Sometimes it’s possible for the dentist to place the implant and the new denture in one day, although at other times patients require longer for the implant to fix in position and they will come back at a later date to have the tooth attached.
How long does it take to complete the whole procedure?
The time to complete the whole procedure varies depending on the individual case but it is commonly between 6 weeks and 6 months, from start to finish.
Implants are a safe and effective dental treatment. If you live in the Solihull area and are considering this treatment or any other treatment why not get in touch with us here at Paul Lowe Dentistry? Our team will be only too happy to assist with your enquiry.