Dental Implants - Your Questions Answered ?

Dental implants - the perfect solution for missing teeth

For many people loosing a tooth either from decay, gum disease or an accident can be the start of life long discomfort and hassle with bridges and dentures. Luckily in recent years dental implants have started to become a much more accessible, longer term and better solution to tooth loss.

Why dental implants and what does the process entail?

Made of titanium the actual implant consists of a small rod that is drilled into the jaw bone directly in line with the missing tooth. A common complaint by those using dentures or bridges is that over time their jaw bone begins to shrink causing both aesthetic and functional problems such as dentures having to be remoulded to fit the mouth and visible facial aging. Over a short period of up to six months the new implanted rod will fuse with the bone, actually stimulating bone growth so even over time the jaw shape remains exactly the same.

When the implant is firmly integrated with the jaw bone and the surrounding gum has healed the next stage of the process can continue and an artificial tooth will be attached to the implant. Unlike with a bridge, the implant is supported completely independently so no alterations or damage need be made to the other surrounding healthy teeth. At first the attachment will be a temporary crown but within a short period of up to six weeks the final artificial tooth can be fitted.

The end result is a fully functional tooth that unlike a denture remains permanently fixed in one place so avoiding any irritation or pain to the gums. The implant requires no special hygiene maintenance, just standard oral care and cosmetically should be indistinguishable from the other teeth within the mouth giving a completely natural look.

Is there an age limit for dental implants?

There is no age limit for dental implants. Dental implants are best postponed in children until growth is complete, because the jaw bones change considerably in shape and size during growth. However, there is certainly no upper age limit to implant treatment; indeed, elderly patients can benefit greatly from stronger teeth. Implants will also keep your dentures much more comfortable, so eating becomes a pleasure again (no matter what the food!).

How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants can be assumed to last a lifetime if they are given proper care and attention and you follow your dentist's advice. Most dentists quote a lifespan of 10-25 years.

Are dental implants expensive?
Cost is an issue with dental implants, they are one of teh most expensive dental procedures that one can have and also costs can vary so much and this often leaves you playing a guessing game. Are some procedures cheaper because they are inferior? Are more expensive procedures better? What are the real factors affecting the cost of treatment? On average dental implants can cost anywhere from £1200 to £3000 per implant.