What is a dental implant?

Implants have many uses within the dental profession. Treatment can involve anything from placing a single implant to placing a number of implants in order to support a bridge. A dental implant is a metal rod (titanium) which is secured into the jawbone to support one or more false teeth. Implants are a well-established, tried-and-tested treatment. 95 per cent of modern implants with the correct care will last for many years.

Dental implants create a permanent tooth. A small titanium screw is placed into the bone under the gum. Through a process called osseointegration, bone tissue is incorporated into the rough outer surface of the dental implant.

Modern dental care has come a long way in recent years and the availability of dental implants as a way to replace missing teeth has revolutionised the way that we can treat our patients.

How does it work?

Dental implants are like having a permanent tooth. A small titanium screw is placed into the bone under the gum. Through a process called osseointegration, bone tissue is incorporated into the rough outer surface of the dental implant.
A single tooth can then be attached to the implant in the form of a natural looking ceramic crown. If multiple teeth are to be replaced an implant can be used as an anchor tooth to support either a fixed bridge or a partial denture. Dental implants can often be the only option for patients who have lost all their teeth and have difficulty with full dentures. Consultation

To determine whether you are a suitable candidate for dental implants, your dentist will need to take x-rays to help decide how much room they have to place the implant and they can then start planning your treatment. Depending on how long the site has been without a tooth, the surgeon may find that there isn't enough room to house an implant. This is when something called a 'bone graft' or 'bone augmentation' is necessary. Your dentist will explain fully the procedure required and answer any concerns or questions you may have.