Dental implants have revolutionised the field of dentistry, offering long-lasting solutions for those seeking to restore their oral health and confidence.
Whether you’ve lost a tooth due to injury, decay, or gum disease, dental implants can offer a durable and natural-looking alternative to bridges and dentures. Let’s explore what dental implants are, the treatment plan involved, and the numerous benefits they provide.
1. What Are Dental Implants?
2. What Are The Benefits Of Dental Implants?
3. The Dental Implant Treatment Plan
4. Who Is Suitable For Dental Implants
5. Are Dental Implants Painful?
6. Are Dental Implants Permanent?
7. Can Dental Implants Be Replaced?
8. What Are The Types Of Dental Implants?
9. How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
10. Will Dental Implants Stop Bone Loss?
11. How To Look After Dental Implants?
12. What Are The Alternatives To Dental Implants?
13. Is A Dental Implant Right For You?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, typically made of titanium, surgically placed into the jawbone. Providing a stable foundation for attaching replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, implants integrate with your bone, offering a more permanent and secure solution.
Dental implants are a popular choice for many people seeking an effective solution to tooth loss for the following reasons:
When you visit Widcombe Dental for your dental implant treatment plan, your journey will commence as:
Stage 1 – Initial Consultation:
Your journey will begin with a comprehensive examination and consultation with our experienced dental team. This will include:
Step 2 – External Referral:
After your consultation, an external referral will be made for a CBCT (Cone-beam computed tomography system). The CBCT scan will highlight any potential complications that may arise, which aren’t fully detectable using a regular X-Ray. This will confirm whether a dental implant is the correct treatment plan for you
Step 3 – Treatment Planning:
Based on your unique needs, at Widcombe Dental, we will create a customised treatment plan tailored to you. This will include:
Stage 4 – Implant Placement
Prior to the surgical placement of your new dental implant, your dentist may suggest a prescription of pre and post-operative antibiotics, depending on your unique circumstances and risks associated with your treatment.
During the procedure the dental implants are precisely positioned into your jawbone, using high-end dental implant surgical equipment. Please note that local anaesthesia may be used during this procedure to ensure your comfort.
Stage 5 – Healing Period:
After the implants are placed, a healing period of several months is necessary. During this time, the implants will integrate with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong foundation for the replacement teeth.
Stage 6 – Abutment Placement:
Once the implants have fused with the bone, abutments (connectors) are attached to the implants. These abutments will hold the replacement teeth securely in place.
Stage 7: Crown or Denture Attachment:
Finally, custom-made crowns, bridges, or dentures are attached to the abutments, completing your new smile.
Most individuals with good general and oral health are suitable candidates for dental implants. The following increases your chances of being a suitable candidate:
A thorough assessment by a dental professional is necessary to ensure the success of the procedure.If you’re considering dental implants, it might be worth booking a dental hygienist appointment beforehand, so we can check for any issues.
While discomfort is normal after the surgery, most patients report no pain during the implant procedure. Local anaesthesia is administered to numb the area, and post-op pain is manageable. You will be able to use any GP-advised pain medication for general pain, such as paracetamol and ibuprofen. If you’re having multiple implants placed, you’ll likely experience slightly more pain following treatment than if you were having a single implant.
At Widcombe Dental, we advise patients that experiencing discomfort for up to ten days after their surgery is normal, but a lot come back to us saying the pain stopped much sooner.
Dental implants are designed to be a more permanent solution. With proper care, including regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene and general optimal health, they can last 20+ years, so they are an excellent option for those wanting a lower maintenance treatment.
While dental implants themselves are not easily replaced, prosthetic components such as crowns or bridges may need replacement over time due to wear and tear. It is important you visit your local Bath dentist regularly, so we can detect any issues early on.
There are various types of dental implants, so your dentist will recommend the most suitable type based on your specific needs. Here’s what we offer at Widcombe Dental, as part of our Bath dental implant treatment:
The cost of dental implants varies depending on factors such as the number of implants, type of restoration, and any additional procedures needed. While implants may have a higher upfront cost, their longevity often makes them a cost-effective investment in the long run.
Our single units start from £3000, but we recommend you book an appointment with our implant dentist, Dr Michael Lavelle, for an initial consultation and treatment recommendation. For a full breakdown of prices, visit our dental fees guide.
After losing a tooth, you aren’t adding as much pressure on your jawbone, which will cause it to weaken as it’s reabsorbed into your body. Because dental implants are anchored into your jawbone, they will help to prevent bone loss by stimulating its growth. This is a significant advantage over traditional dentures, which do not provide the same level of bone preservation.
Here are some key do’s and don’ts when it comes to looking after your dental implants:
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Try to eat soft foods for at least a week | Eat hot food and drinks for the first 24 hours |
| Keep your mouth clean | Avoid sucking on anything, such as straw or cigarrette |
| Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol | Touch your implant with your fingers or tongue |
| Rinse your mouth with mouthwash at least three times a day | Drink alcohol or smoke for at least two weeks |
| Take any medications your dentist has advised you. Consult with your GP if you take regular medications to ensure no complications will arise during the surgery. | Wear dentures to cover this area |
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Use a soft toothbrush or electric toothbrush to clean your teeth twice a day. Floss too! | Avoid harsh toothbrushes and abrasive toothpaste |
| Thoroughly brushing the inside, outside and top of your teeth | Never use your implants as tools to open packages, cans or bottles |
| Avoid smoking | Avoid eating too many sugary treats |
| Attend regular dental hygienist appointments | Avoid smoking |
Alternatives to dental implants include traditional dentures and dental bridges. However, these options may not provide the same stability, aesthetics, and long-term benefits as implants.
| Dental Implants | Dentures |
|---|---|
| Maintains jaw bone | Can cause the thinning of a jawbone |
| Creates normal bite force | Reduces bite force |
| Aids normal healthy digestion | Reduces normal healthy digestion |
| Fixed in place permanently | Can be easily removed |
| Enjoy your favourite foods | Some foods will be off-limits |
| Natural appearance | Natural appearance |
If you’re considering dental implants, the first step is to schedule a consultation with our skilled team at Widcombe Dental. We’ll evaluate your oral health and discuss your goals to determine the best treatment plan for you. With dental implants, you can achieve a beautiful, functional smile that lasts a lifetime.
Contact us today to book your appointment and take the first step towards a brighter, healthier smile!
Choosing dental implants is a significant decision that can positively impact your smile and overall health. Consult with the experienced team at Widcombe Dental on 01225317681 or via our online booking system to explore whether dental implants are the right solution for you.
