Dental implants to complete your smile
Dental implants Berkshire are a highly beneficial solution to tooth loss. Here at Old Windsor Dental, we understand that having a good smile is vital for self-confidence and help our patients to achieve this using a range of treatment options. This is an explanation of what dental implants are and answers to some of the questions that many patients have before they decide to embark on the treatment.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants Berkshire are a permanent solution to missing teeth that patients can rely on. They are a means of substituting the original roots of the teeth that provide a stable base onto which artificial teeth can be secured. Made from titanium, they integrate with the tissue within the jawbone to become a part of it over time in a natural manner.
Can anyone have this treatment?
Many patients who have missing teeth are eligible candidates for dental implants Berkshire. However, before going ahead, we conduct a thorough examination of the mouth, checking the condition of the gums and the jawbone in particular.
If there is gum disease present, as is often the case when a patient has suffered from tooth loss, then we need to treat and resolve that before we can offer implants. The implants are positioned into the jawbone; therefore, it should be in good health before the surgery. If this is not the case, then the patient is not necessarily ruled out from getting implants, but they may have to undergo bone grafting before going ahead.
What happens when getting implants?
We take records of the teeth and gums before getting the implants made. We then position the implants within the jawbone during a surgical procedure. A local anaesthetic is administered so the patient does not feel anything while the procedure is taking place.
The patient goes home with temporary teeth replacements while they wait for healing to take place. This usually takes weeks or sometimes months. On their return appointment, we check that the gums are fully healed before securing permanent artificial teeth onto the implants.
Are there lots of appointments needed?
The number of appointments required does vary between patients, but once the treatment is complete, the new teeth can be treated just like natural teeth. This means that provided the patient takes good care of their oral health at home, they should not need any more appointments than any other patient. Usually, regular check-ups are all that is needed.
How long do implants last?
Titanium implants are made to last. They are very durable and reliable and can stay in place for many years. In many cases, teeth replaced in this way last for a lifetime.
Is there any special care needed?
Once treatment with implants has been completed, it is simply a matter of maintaining a regular routine of brushing and flossing, just like any other patient. Brushing should be done twice each day and flossing or using interdental brushes once daily. Keeping the teeth clean and free from food debris and plaque is all that is needed for maintenance.