At one time, losing a tooth meant either coping with the gap or relying on dentures to complete your smile.
For many patients these are not options they wish to consider, but advances in dental technology mean that patient’s can now chose the ultimate modern solution, a dental implant.
Using the latest materials and techniques, your dentist will be able to transform your smile and have a massive impact on your overall oral health. A single dental implant will involve a titanium post being implanted into your gum, to act as an artificial tooth root.
Once in place, it becomes securely anchored to the jaw, allowing a custom-made false tooth to be permanently secured to it, so you can eat, talk and smile with confidence.
If you would like to find out if you are suitable for a dental implant, your dentist will take the time to carry out a full assessment of your teeth and mouth. They will then make recommendations about the most suitable treatment types, including determining if you may need a bone graft to create a strong base for the implant and answering any questions you may have.
If you both decide a dental implant is the best solution, you will have impressions taken of the area, so the bespoke pieces can be made in the lab. Your dentist will use a local anaesthetic to ensure you experience minimal discomfort while undergoing the implant procedure, and for anxious patients, there are sedation options available.
Once the titanium post is implanted into the jaw, a temporary tooth will be used to fill the gap while the implant heals. You will then return to the dentist after a couple of weeks to have your new tooth fitted, which will have been made to exactly match your existing teeth in terms of shape, size and colour.
The result looks incredibly realistic and will feel as strong and comfortable as your own teeth, allowing you to eat and smile as if you never lost the original tooth.
Single dental implants are an excellent solution for replacing a single missing tooth. They consist of a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone, which serves as a foundation for a custom-made crown. This restoration looks and feels like a natural tooth, providing a long-lasting, durable solution for those who have lost a single tooth due to injury, decay, or other factors.
The process for placing a single dental implant typically involves the following steps:
A single dental implant involves placing a titanium post into the jawbone to act as a tooth root replacement. After the post heals, a custom-made tooth is securely attached to it, restoring both function and appearance.
The full process can take several months, as it involves implant placement, healing time, and fitting the final restoration. The healing process typically takes a few months to ensure the implant integrates with the jawbone.
The procedure is done under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. Post-surgery, there may be mild swelling or soreness, but this typically subsides with over-the-counter pain relief.
With proper care, single dental implants can last a lifetime. Regular dental checkups and good oral hygiene are essential for the longevity of the implant.
To be a candidate, you should have healthy gums and enough jawbone to support the implant. If there has been bone loss, a bone graft may be recommended to ensure successful implant placement.
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