Dental Implants at St. Leonards Green Dental
Getting dental implants is one of the smartest investments you can make in your smile. Compared to other types of tooth replacement treatments, implants outlast and outperform all of the choices available.
Implants themselves are biocompatible, hypoallergenic rods shaped and placed in your mouth to mimic natural tooth roots. After they’ve been installed, a process called osseointegration permanently fuses them in place. At that point, we can anchor a permanent restoration on top of them, such as a porcelain crown or bridge. We can also affix a full-arch denture; both removable and anchored designs are available.
Does It Hurt to Get Dental Implants?
We use a unique technique that does not involve invasive surgery to place your implant. Most dental implant treatments are relatively comfortable since the minimally invasive procedure is performed under local anaesthetic. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) sedation is also available to help you relax. Compared to other types of dental treatment, implant placement is relatively just as easy.
After your procedure, it’s typical for the gums at your implant site to feel slightly irritated. Pain, however, is uncommon. Since the bone that your implant is set into does not have pain receptors, you shouldn’t experience any significant discomfort.
A Smart Investment in Your Smile
Modern implants are the most successful and long-lasting treatment in dentistry. When properly cared for and maintained, implants have over a 95% success rate and the potential to last your entire life. These two characteristics alone make them the best investment when it comes to restoring your smile.
Use implants to replace one or all of your teeth! They’re more durable than any other type of appliance, restoration or prosthesis.
Am I a Candidate for Implants?
Before getting dental implants, we’ll need to thoroughly examine your bone height, density and gum health. If you have active periodontal disease or significant bone loss, other therapies will be required in advance of possible implant treatment.
Implants are reserved for our patients who have entirely formed oral anatomy. Patients under age 17 should opt for a temporary alternative (such as a flipper or partial) until their jaws are fully formed.
Medical concerns such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS or tobacco use can affect the success of your implant procedure. Please be sure to review your current health needs and medications with us in advance.
Do Implants Really Last Forever?
Today’s implants are the most successful and durable restoration in modern dentistry. When placed in your mouth, osseointegration permanently fuses the artificial “root” into your bone. As such, it’s very rare for it to come loose or fail. All studies suggest that when cared for and maintained properly, an implant can potentially last for the entire life of the patient.
There is one thing to keep in mind, though. The restoration on top of your implants (such as the crown or bridge) can start to wear out over time. These fixed appliances may need to be replaced on an infrequent basis.
WANT TO LEARN MORE?
Find out if dental implants are the best way for you to replace your missing teeth. Contact us today to book a consultation.
* Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.