Dental Implants In Bideford

How Dental Implants Work

Implants are made from medical-grade titanium and effectively replace the root of the missing tooth. The implant is screwed into the jawbone and provides a secure and solid base to support natural looking tooth crowns. The crown is attached to the implant using a device called an abutment, a supporting collar sitting close to the gum-line.

Implants are placed following a CT scan which enables the dentist to be extremely precise in selecting the ideal location, whilst also missing nerves within the jaw bone. This precision ensures the best chance of success for the procedure. The CT scan also enables a bone loss assessment to take place and where necessary a bone graft can be completed before the surgery commences.

Once placed, implants can take 3 or 4 months to integrate with the bone but once this has happened, they can last a lifetime and should feel as close to natural teeth as is currently possible in modern dentistry.

Implant Suitability

Although most people are suitable for dental implants, there are some exceptions and this is why we always provide a detailed consultation before any treatment takes place. Like any complex treatment, many factors can come into play with implant treatment and we will only suggest this kind of tooth replacement if we believe there is a high chance of success.

Whether you need a single implant, an implant supported bridge, an entire arch replacement or implant-supported dentures, a detailed consultation will ensure that this type of treatment is the best option for you. If for any reason you aren't suitable, we will explain alternative treatment options so that you can get the best smile restoration available to you at this time.

If you are struggling with a missing tooth or teeth which are affecting your confidence, your smile and ability to eat, please call our team to arrange your implant consultation. A complete and fully functional smile may just be a few short months away!