Implants FAQ'S

Q. I have heard about having teeth that are screwed in. Is this possible?
A. It is possible to have a tooth or several teeth replaced with titanium rods that are fixed into the jawbones. This treatment is not available on the National Health Service but some dentists will do this privately. You will require a minor surgical procedure where the gum is lifted and the implant is embedded into the jawbone. This is a very simple procedure and is usually carried out with local anaesthesia. The implant is then left for 3 - 6 months for the bone to bond to it. After that period the tooth or teeth can be fixed on to the implant.

Q. How many teeth can be fixed in with implants?
A. Implants can be used for single tooth replacement or for many teeth. Much depends on the bone available for the implants. If you wear dentures you can have several implants fitted which will be used to fix a denture on to.

Q. How long do implants last?
A. Just like natural teeth implants must be looked after and kept clean. If they are kept clean the studies show that implants can last many years, however if the oral hygiene is not very good then just as gum disease can loosen natural teeth the same goes for implants.

Q. Is treatment with implants expensive?
A. Unfortunately, yes. As this treatment is only available privately the costs for a single tooth implant can go from £1500 upwards. This may not be much more than a private bridge. The charge may vary from different dentists, and if your dentist does not do this treatment he will be able to refer you to someone who does .

Should you require any further dental information or advice on Implants, please contact The Dentist@ Dentecom.