Dental Implant – An implant can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. It is a titanium screw that can be used to replace the root of a tooth. Like a root the implant is placed in the jaw bone. A tailor made crown is usually fixed onto to implant to restore the tooth.
Are they safe? Implants are a safe procedure with millions of implants placed throughout the world. They are increasing in popularity and are often considered the best choice for a missing tooth.
How long will they last? Similar to natural teeth, how well you look after them will play a big role on how long they last. Maintaining good oral hygiene at home as well as regular dental care and hygiene visits will play a large role in how long they last.
Are implants only for young people? No. In fact most the research done on implants is on patients in their 60’s and 70’s. They can be done at any age
When is the best time to have an implant? We recommend planning this with your dentist. Usually implants are placed at either the same time as the tooth is extracted or 3 to 4 months after. Implants may be possible later but there is risk that if too much bone is lost it may not be possible. This is particularly a problem with lower back teeth.
Will it hurt? Having an implant placed in normally easier than having a tooth out. It is usually carried out under local anaesthetic and you will not feel any pain at the time. Like all extractions there will be a bit of swelling and discomfort for a few days following treatment.
How long does the treatment take? Your dentist will be able to give you a more detailed guide but on average the tooth is restored 3 to 4 months after placing the implant. Sometimes treatment can take longer or it may be possible to do everything on the same visit (immediate implant).
What care do I need following treatment? You will be given tailored instructions on what to do following your treatment. We also provide pain relief, antibiotics, an implant mouthwash and toothbrush
Why is there a 3 to 4 month wait? Following the placement of an implant the jaw bone needs to fuse to the implant. As bone is slow in growing we need to give it time. Some patients will also have different bone density than others and this is why we are sometimes able place implants immediately whereas at other times there is a need to wait. This can only be determined during the treatment.
How will it look? Implant crowns have a beautiful emergence profile. They look very life like and are difficult to distinguish from natural teeth.
Where can I get the treatment? We are able to treat most cases at the practice. Dr Kanzaria and Dr Girgis both provide implant treatment. With some complex cases and CBCT scans we are able to refer you to a specialist clinic in Cambridge, where Dr Girgis will continue the treatment.