Dental implants are a secure, strong, and effective way of replacing missing teeth. At Small Dental in Edgware, we have been restoring our patient’s smiles for many years and take great pride in our work.
We understand that teeth can be lost due to various reasons, such as decay, trauma, infection, or gum disease. This loss can lead to a range of problems. Dental implants offer several benefits, including improved eating and speaking, prevention of jawbone shrinkage, and stabilisation of existing teeth.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically inserted into the jawbone, functioning as artificial tooth roots. Titanium’s durability and excellent biocompatibility allow these cylindrical posts to fuse with the bone, creating a stable foundation for crowns or bridges.
Why have a tooth implant?
Teeth can be lost as a result of gum disease, dental decay and injury. Having a missing tooth can greatly impact self-confidence, especially if the gap is visible when you smile. While there are different options available for replacing missing teeth, implants are the best solution as they are long-lasting, secure, and strengthen your jaw. Dental implants are also incredibly versatile and can even be used to retain dentures.
Benefits of dental implants
- Secure – dental implants stay firmly in place and will not slip when you are eating or speaking or become loose over time. As they are held in place by your bone, you can be confident of their strength and durability.
- Improved function – enjoy eating, speaking, and smiling confidently. You will be able to eat, drink and talk just as you did before, as well as show off a full smile.
- Long-term investment – dental implants are a cost-effective solution in the long run.
- Aesthetic – implants look and feel just like natural teeth.
- Effective – dental implants are a well-established, safe, and highly effective way of replacing one or more missing teeth in any part of your mouth.
- Preservation of jawbone – implants help to support and sustain your facial structure and remaining natural teeth. They protect your gum and can be fitted with no detrimental effect on your existing healthy teeth.
- Innovative – implants use cutting edge digital dental technology combined with specialist expertise to create the next best thing to a natural tooth.
- Durability – Made from strong materials, implants can last for many years.
What is involved in having an implant placed?
First appointment
It takes several appointments for us to place an implant and restore a missing tooth. We start with an initial consultation where we discuss in detail your treatment plan and how long we envisage the treatment will take.
Assessment
We take x-rays and scans of your mouth so we can get a clear picture of your jaw. It’s important that there is enough bone density to support an implant. We use these x-rays and scans to locate the best spot for us to place the implant. If we are replacing a single missing tooth, the implant will be placed where the tooth root used to be.
Placing the implant
We always use anaesthetic and make sure you are completely at ease when having the implant placed. We place a temporary crown or bridge at the site to keep the area protected while the implant fuses and heals. It takes a few months for the implant to fully fuse to the jawbone. Once it has healed, we arrange the top of the implant to be exposed from the gum so we can take impressions of the area.
Preparing for the restoration
Whether you are having a crown, or a bridge affixed to your implant, we will need to take impressions so we can create perfect replacement teeth. These impressions are then used by a dental lab where your new teeth will be made from tooth-like porcelain. Once they have been crafted and sent back to us, we arrange for the fitting.
Fitting the replacement teeth
The fitting makes the treatment worth the wait when you can see yourself with a full smile again. We test the crowns or bridge before fitting in place to check the fit and make sure that you are happy with the end result. We then fix them in place to the implant abutment using a special dental adhesive.
Dental implants in Edgware: A comprehensive guide
Dental implants offer a robust and natural-looking solution for missing teeth in Edgware. Whether you’ve lost a single tooth or multiple teeth, there’s an implant option tailored to your needs.
Single Dental Implant
For a single missing tooth, a crown attached to a dental implant provides a strong, secure, and durable replacement. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants preserve healthy teeth and prevent jawbone deterioration.
Multiple Dental Implants
If you have several missing teeth, multiple implants can be strategically placed to support a bridge. This approach is ideal for cases where jawbone density may be insufficient for individual implants.
Full Arch Implants
For those missing a full upper or lower arch of teeth, dental implants offer a superior alternative to traditional dentures. There are two primary options:
- Fixed full arch bridge: Supported by four to six implants, this bridge provides a natural-feeling, permanent solution.
- Implant-supported denture: This denture is anchored by implants, offering greater stability and comfort compared to traditional dentures.
Looking after your Dental Implants
Just like with natural teeth, implants will last longer if you keep up with a regular and thorough cleaning routine. While the replacement teeth are resistant to bacteria, the supporting gum tissue and bone are not. Keeping your mouth clear of bacteria will make sure your implants last just as long as your natural teeth.
Finance options available
We are pleased to offer flexible payment options to help spread the cost of your dental implant treatment, including 0% interest for 12 months with Tabeo finance.
Frequently Asked Question
Many patients with healthy teeth and gums are suitable for implant treatment. However, in some cases, there may not be enough bone density present in the jaw to support an implant. A bone grafting procedure can be performed if necessary.
Dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime if they are properly looked after. This includes maintaining an excellent brushing and flossing routine, looking after your general health and attending regular check up appointments with your dentist.
No, dental implants look and feel exactly like natural teeth. We can match the shape and colour of your existing teeth when creating your final fixed crown or bridge so it blends seamlessly into your smile.
You should treat your dental implants just like natural teeth, and include them in your normal oral hygiene routine. As they are made from artificial materials, your implants are invulnerable to decay or cavities, but you will still need to brush and floss to keep the gum surrounding the implant healthy and problem-free.
Yes, we offer dental implant treatments in Edgware and the surrounding areas!
We understand that missing teeth can affect your confidence and smile, and dental implants are a long-lasting solution for replacing them. In addition to Edgware, we’re happy to serve patients in the greater area, including Stanmore and Bushey. So, if you’re considering dental implants and live nearby, book a consultation today.
