Have you lost a tooth? It can be a traumatic experience and if it’s particularly visible, it can make you feel very self-conscious. However, rest assured it’s not all doom and gloom, let dental implants be your saviour.
Dental implants are a popular and permanent fix for you to replace missing teeth. These alternatives to your natural tooth root are made from titanium, a metal that fuses with your jaw bone.
When you lose a tooth or teeth, your natural jawbone can weaken and actually hinder your ability to chew. It can also change the form of your face and smile. So, let’s look at dental implants a bit closer.
How it works
The dental implants act like anchors that are surgically placed in your jaw. The titanium is perfectly safe for your body and it will join your bone and grow and fuse together to support the implant. After approximately 3-6 months, the implant is ready for the permanent tooth replacement to be placed on the anchor. The replacement teeth are matched to your natural tooth colour so they blend in beautifully with your smile.
How long does it take?
Initially you will probably need to have some x-rays, so that your dentist can check the shape of your jawbone and where it’s best to place the implant. You may also need to have a CT scan if the x-rays are not conclusive.
How long the procedure takes will depend on how many implants you are having, as it is possible to have several implants fitted in the same procedure. If you are only having one implant it can take approximately half an hour to fit.
How long will it last?
If you follow the proper oral hygiene procedures provided by your dentist, dental implants can last for life and are suitable for most people. If you don’t look after your implants, they may develop a coating, similar to plaque, and if this is untreated it can develop into a gum infection, bleeding and soreness.
If you would like to replace some teeth and would like to find out more, our team have considerable experience with implants and can talk you through the process to determine whether it is the right solution for you. Contact us today!
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