We know how it is – life can be hectic, and on a daily basis we find ourselves just putting up with our dental demons; that loose tooth or those missing teeth we’ve been meaning to get fixed or replaced but somehow haven’t managed to get around to it.

Step up, dental implants!

You may know all about them, or know nothing at all; but what you should know is that dental implants are as close as it gets to replacing your natural tooth or teeth. They can be used to replace a missing or damaged tooth, several teeth or even a complete set. Most implants look exactly like normal teeth and can last a great many years.

Dental implants are available privately, and in many situations the cost of the treatment is only a little more than the cost of more conventional private dental treatments, for example crowns and bridges. Over the longer term, implants are usually a more cost-effective and satisfactory option.

So what exactly is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a titanium unit which, like a natural tooth root, is placed into the jawbone where the missing tooth used to be. Upon this, a porcelain tooth can be secured. It is often necessary to remove a damaged tooth before placing the implant, and teeth should be removed professionally and carefully to maximise the quality and volume of bone, which will ensure a longer-lasting, successful implant and restoration.

Treatment has proved to be a safe, well established practice and much like your own teeth, implants will last for as long as you care for them, and with regular check-ups at the surgery. If your implants are well cared for and the jawbone is strong and healthy, they can last for many years (although it’s worth noting that just like other surgical implants, for example a hip replacement, there is no lifetime guarantee).

Are implants painful?

The procedure of placing a dental implant is generally not painful. In fact, it can often be more straightforward than the removal of a tooth; in some cases, placement can be completed within 30 minutes.

The dental implant procedure requires a simple local anaesthetic which your dentist will discuss with you beforehand. You should not feel any pain at the time, but you may feel some discomfort during the week following the surgery when medication such as Paracetamol can be taken to ease this.  

Like all dental treatments, if you feel very nervous before the procedure, it is important to let the dental team know. They are here to put you at your ease. It may also help beforehand to read our article ‘Overcoming Dentophobia – a fear of the dentist’

After the treatment, your dental team will give you detailed advice on how to look after your implants and will answer any questions you may have.

Happy new you!

Here at Market House, we have very many patients who have had their implants, and restoration to them, for 15 to 20 years. So, if this is the year to get your dental demons banished for good, please do not hesitate to contact us for your free consultation.