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DENTAL IMPLANTS
At Eastgate Dental & Cosmetic Centre, dental implants are one of the most effective methods to replace one or multiple teeth with a fixed appliance.
WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS?
Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth and are an alternative option to bridges and dentures. They are titanium posts that are surgically placed in the jawbone to replace missing teeth. They serve as artificial tooth roots, providing a sturdy foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures. Implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth, improving both aesthetics and oral function.
The materials used in dental implants are biocompatible with the jawbone allowing bone to grow around the implant, which means they are safe and non-toxic to the jawbone and adjacent teeth.
WHAT IS THE TREATMENT PROCESS FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS?
An initial implant consultation will be carried out with one of our dentists to discuss treatment options and to assess the general health of your teeth and jawbone to accept a dental implant. A series of preoperative clinical photos and digital impressions will be taken to aid treatment planning and provide a diagnostic wax-up to allow the dentist and patient to visualise the final appearance of the dental implant. Additional specialised imaging (CT scan) will be required to aid planning further by providing the dentist with a 3D reconstruction of your jaws. These diagnostic aids are essential for the success of your dental implants.
STEP 1
STEP 2
The placement of a dental implant is routinely carried out under local anaesthetic. There is a healing period of around 8-10 weeks, this is the time required for osseointegration (bone fusing with the dental implant).
Osseointegration can be compromised if there is insufficient quantity or quality of bone to place a dental implant. An additional surgical procedure called bone augmentation may be required to allow your dental implant treatment to have optimal results. The dentist will discuss with you the procedure and risks if required.
We are proud to be using high-quality dental implants from Straumann which have substantial long term follow-up evidence showing their successful results. With Straumann being one of the most renowned dental companies in the world, we can ensure that maintenance of your dental implants will go smoothly for many years to come.
For our nervous patients, we offer sedation with our sedation-trained dentist.
STEP 3
In this stage, we uncover the implant, and a digital impression is taken. This is sent out to a dental laboratory where the ceramist will construct a custom aesthetic and functional crown or bridge to fit the implant. A provisional restoration may be fitted at this stage.
STEP 4
Once the implant crown or bridge has been constructed the provisional restoration will be removed and the new restoration will be tried in. The aesthetics, fit, and appearance will be assessed and if you are satisfied with this, the restoration will be cemented or screwed onto the dental implant.
The importance of cleaning around your newly placed dental implant and restoration will be discussed with you. Regular maintenance with flossing, water flossing, interdental brushing, and hygienist appointments are important to achieve optimal long-term results.
Our principal dentist Dr Steven Ho is very passionate about dental implants and has completed further post graduate training in dental implant placement.
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