DENTAL IMPLANT PLACEMENT
How are dental implants fitted?
Dental implants are small titanium screws that take over the function of the root of a tooth. They are surgically inserted into the jaw bone to eventually hold your new tooth or teeth. They can be used to support fixed crown and bridgework, replace one tooth, several teeth or a whole set of missing teeth. Implants can also be used to stabilise a loose or uncomfortable denture.
We have been placing dental implants for patients in Harpenden, St Albans and all over Hertfordshire for over 20 years. We know that some people can feel anxious about undergoing dental surgery, which is why Dr Robin Horton takes the time to explain the procedure fully during your implant consultation and answer any questions you may have.
WHAT IS THE DENTAL IMPLANT PROCEDURE?
Book a dental implant appointment to establish if the treatment is suitable for you
Your personal implant treatment plan will be agreed with you following a consultation with our implant dentist, once you are fully informed and have had any queries answered.
- Stage 1 – is a Cone Beam CT scan and an intra-oral scan. These are taken to check you have enough bone for an implant, and if you do, to virtually plan where that implant will go. We can then make the best use of any bone and avoid any delicate structures, while ensuring the best aesthetic outcome.
- Stage 2 – is to extract any teeth. This might be done at the same time as we place the implants. We use dental lasers to extract teeth- lasers are minimally invasive and so precise that we can preserve your precious bone and delicate tissues needed for your implant.
- Stage 3 – is to place the implant or implants. We will have already planned where the implant is to go and will have created a virtual route. We then use the X-Guide to follow this route so that the implant is placed exactly where planned. Temporary teeth are fitted depending on the site and how many teeth are being replaced.
- Stage 4 – After the implant has integrated (usually 3-6 months), unless final teeth were fitted at the implant stage, your final tooth or teeth will be fitted.
During all stages, we recommend regular hygiene visits, and that impeccable oral hygiene is maintained.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implant Placement
Our patients report very little discomfort following surgery. This is because we place them minimally invasively using dental lasers and use a therapeutic laser to initiate healing process which means minimal inflammation.
The risks associated with dental implants are rare and you are very unlikely to experience dental implant problems, but with any procedure there are risks and complications. Smoking and poor oral hygiene significantly reduces long term success of your implants.
Regular appointments with your hygienist will ensure that you are maintaining the implants, crowns or bridges in the healthiest possible way to ensure long-term success. Your dentist will advise you of the most effective maintenance schedule both before and after dental implant treatment.
Ninety-five percent of implants now last for at least 15 years but they need careful cleaning. Without this you will experience problems similar to that of gum disease around the implant which can result in bone loss, causing it to loosen and fail. Cleaning around implants is no more difficult that cleaning your natural teeth and our hygienists can provide excellent oral health instruction specifically for dental implants. We will strongly advise you to see the hygienist on a regular basis to help you keep the area free of plaque and to maintain your oral hygiene.
If you are interested in dental implant treatment please call 01582 712 470 or book online below:
