Dental Implants

Dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime, if they are looked after properly. The crown or bridge that is fixed on top of your implant may need to be replaced over time due to normal wear and tear. It is important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine at home, including brushing twice a day, to keep your dental health in great condition and your implant strong and secure.

Dental implants are fused to your jawbone, making them incredibly solid and secure, so they won’t fall out. Occasionally, the replacement tooth on top of your implant may become loose and need to be replaced, but the implant itself will remain secure. We can replace or reattach the crown or bridge to fix the issue.

Tooth implant surgery takes place in a relatively short appointment in our practice, but the implants then need around 3-6 months to heal and integrate with your bone before your fixed replacement teeth can be fitted on top. If you need a bone graft or other preparatory procedure before your implant treatment, this will also prolong the total time, but it will be worth it once you see your new smile. For patients who can’t or don’t want to wait this long, All on 4 may be a successful option.

Most people are suitable for dental implants, as long as they are in good oral and general health and have sufficient levels of bone in their jaw. Your bone density can be improved with a graft to help make your dental implant treatment more successful. We will look at your individual case and discuss your suitability for implant treatment at your consultation appointment.

We use local anaesthetic to numb the affected area of your mouth while your dental implant is being fitted, so it won’t be painful. After treatment, you will likely feel some discomfort as the anaesthetic wears off. This is normal, and can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers as advised by your dentist. Implant surgery has a short recovery period, and most people are able to go back to work the next day. Many patients report it is less painful than having a tooth taken out.

Dental implants mimic a natural tooth root, giving your mouth full function. They will not slip or move when you eat or speak, which can happen with other dental restorations. When your crown or bridge is fixed on top, dental implants look and feel just like natural teeth, blending beautifully into your smile. Other people will not be able to tell you have an implant in place.

The best way to look after your dental implants is to treat them as you do your existing teeth. Brush and floss twice a day to keep the gum and surrounding teeth clean, healthy and problem-free. It is also important to visit your dentist for regular check-up appointments so they can check your implant and replacement tooth.