What it is An implant is a device used to enable the reconstruction of a missing tooth or teeth with a fixed crown or bridge.It is normally made out of pure titanium and takes the place of the patients missing natural tooth root.
What it involves An implant requires surgical placement into the jawbone normally under local anaesthetic sometimes with sedation provided.
The implant needs time to fuse to the bone and in many cases it needs to be buried under the gum before exposing it and connecting to the tooth.In some cases a tooth or teeth can be connected the same day as inserting it where bone density is favourable.The fusing process between the implant and bone is termed Osseintegration.
Questions to ask Success rate of the implant? Normally an implant restoratoration is a highly sucessful treatment with successs rates being well over 90% over a 30 year period.However the patient should ask about the pedigree of the implant and how long studies have been made on the device.
Can they always be used? No they cannot always be used as it depends on the position in the mouth of the missing tooth, the volume of bone available , bone density, gum disease present.
Can I smoke and have implants? Best not to smoke as it has been shown to reduce the success rate and integration of the implant.
Can systemic disease affect them?
Certain types of systemic disease can affect the success rate. eg diabetes
If it fails can it be replaced? Yes they can normally be replaced.
Things to look out for Experience and qualification of the operator.
Make and material of the implant.
Does it hurt? There is a certain degree of soreness and swelling but most patients find that they are pleasantly surprised at how little discomfort they have.
Expect to pay
£3500 or £4500 each tooth depending how many teeth whether sedation is used
Pictures of success
For further info: contact the Harley Oral Reconstruction Centre on: 0207 486 4442
Further info on implants: www.nobelsmile.com Dr. Malcolm Schaller @ Harley Oral Reconstruction Clinic
