Implants

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is a titanium metal fixture which is placed into the jawbone like a substitute root. It is used to support one or more false teeth. Implants are a well-established, tried-and-tested treatment.

I have some of my own teeth, can I still have implants?

Yes. You can have any number of teeth replaced with implants – from one single tooth to a full mouth rebuild.

Can implants always be used to replace missing teeth?

It depends on the state of the bone in your jaw. Graeme will arrange for a number of special tests and x-rays to assess the amount of bone present. If there is not enough bone, or if it isn’t healthy enough, it may not be possible to place dental implants without grafting bone into the area first.

Can I have the new teeth straight away?

No. The implants need to bond (integrate) with the bone after they have been placed. This takes at least 3 months in the lower jaw and 6 months in the upper jaw. You will have a temporary restoration in the meantime. If you have complete dentures, then you can wear them throughout the healing period.

If I had gum disease when I had my own teeth, will I get it with the teeth attached to the implants?

Yes, if you don’t look after them well enough. If you keep your implant and restoration clean, and don’t smoke, then you should not have any problems.

Can I take the teeth out if they are fixed to implants?

Most implant retained teeth can only be placed and removed by Graeme. However, if you have complete dentures fixed to the implants, then you’ll be able to take them out for cleaning.

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