For decades, and despite dental improvements tooth decay, injury and disease caused millions to suffer from tooth loss. During this period the only treatment available was to have a bridge fitted or to get dentures. In the 1950’s an orthopaedic surgeon accidentally discovered how titanium and bone reacted and from this discovery, implants were born ! So what are dental implants? They are effectively substitution roots which provide fixed replacement or extractable teeth which match existing teeth with a solid foundation. Dental Implants Guildford offers this procedure to patients with healthy gums and sufficient bone mass to support an implant. Patients suffering from chronic disorders like heart disease and or diabetes or who have had radiation therapy need individual evaluation. The patient must be willing to commit to a regime of methodical oral hygiene and structured dental visits. Implants require a comprehensive consultation with a dentist to ascertain if this procedure is the correct one for them.

Enhancements an expectation

The feel and look is so natural that they cannot be detected easily from your natural teeth. Often people with dentures find that because they don’t fit too well they tend to mumble or slur when they talk. Because they are fused to the bone they feel comfortable and permanent allowing you to eat confidently without discomfort. There is no need to reduce surrounding teeth as with a bridge and implants allowing easier cleaning between teeth, resulting in better oral hygiene. Smiling and laughing are a lot more comfortable as there is no need to worry about dentures dropping causing embarrassment. Well cared for implants are very durable and can last a lifetime.

What does the treatment entail

Committing to Dental Implants Guildford requires a commitment to seeing the treatment to its conclusion and the results are worth it, your dentist will create a treatment plan beforehand. This treatment normally requires a trained team specifically trained in this procedure.The first process entails a titanium post being inserted into the bone which is inserted into the socket created by the extracted or missing tooth. The jawbone will gradually grow around this post so that it is securely fixed to the jaw, this will take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks to heal. At the next visit an abutment is attached to the post to provide a solid structure for the new tooth, allowing it to anchor securely. Impressions of the teeth are taken so that a new tooth which is called a crown can be constructed which matches the surrounding teeth in shape and colour. The new tooth is made to look and feel like your natural teeth and because it is secured to your jawbone it will function like your natural teeth.

Is the procedure painful

More often than not a local anaesthetic is administered and there is some discomfort but the pain is reported to be less than a tooth extraction. Once the treatment has been completed there can be mild soreness which can be easily treated with pain-killers. Regular brushing, flossing and dentist visits, the same regime as natural teeth, will be sufficient to take care of the implant.