Dental Implants

An implant is an artificial root that replaces the root of a missing tooth. It can be placed in either the upper or lower jaw and, in time, will bond with your jawbone to create a firm foundation to which a replacement false tooth, bridge or denture is fixed.

The implant screw or post that replaces the root of a missing tooth is made from titanium, which is biocompatible with bone structure, allowing it to bond with the jawbone to provide a secure anchor.

If looked after properly, dental implants last for many years and long into the future – they are the longest lasting option for a missing tooth available on the market today.

Dental implant treatment is complex and involves multiple visits to the practice. The minimum treatment time is usually a few months and for most patients takes three to four months. For more complex treatment its can take over a year although this is unusual.

Yes, if you are over 18 and in reasonably good health. Our thorough assessment will determine whether dental implants are the right option for you. At your implant assessment consultation, your mouth would first be examined and then appropriate x-rays, models and photographs taken. If implants are appropriate, a full treatment plan would be developed together with an estimate of the costs of providing the treatment.

Dental implant treatment starts from £2,600 and payment options are available, including 0% finance. Over time, dental implants will prove to be the most cost-effective solution to replacing missing teeth.

Tooth implants can be used for a wide range of treatment from one implant to replace one missing tooth, two implants to secure a loose denture, through to multiple implants to replace all the teeth in the mouth.

Following an initial consultation to assess for suitability, you will usually require x-rays or CBCT scans. If necessary bone re-building will then be carried out to repair any missing bone – although this procedure sounds alarming, please rest assured that it is quite straightforward and can be completed in-house at Brunswick Dental. Once your teeth and gums are healthy you will have surgery to place the implants using a local anaesthetic. The procedure takes one or two hours depending on the number of implants being placed. Healing takes between three and six months. For some patients it may be possible to place a temporary crown. This will need careful cleaning and it is important to limit the amount of biting force. Further visits will check healing and once fully healed the missing teeth will be restored. This part usually requires multiple visits , each restoration is individually crafted.

Patients can experience some bruising, a dull ache, swelling and discomfort. The effects vary depending on the number of implants being placed and the symptoms can usually be managed with painkillers or a cold pack. Damage to nerves or roots of adjacent teeth can occur but are not common. When choosing a date for implant placement, avoid significant social engagements and work commitments for a week, to be on the safe side. Taking time off work is not usually necessary.

Implants are medical devices placed into bone, and as with all treatments, a small proportion of patients do have failures. Failures are more common when patients have identifiable risk factors that may predispose them to an increased risk of failure. As part of the consultation process Nigel will discuss your individual risk profile, and discuss the likely success rate of your implant treatment. Implant work, like all other dental treatments, will not succeed unless good oral hygiene is maintained. Implants are very similar to natural teeth and patients who are prone to gum problems can experience similar problems. Because implants are placed into bone, the support of adequate bone and gums are required for successful treatment

Smoking is a major factor in treatment failure and complete cessation is recommended. For people who grind their teeth, it may be wise to have a plastic guard made to protect the implants and teeth from damage or failure.