Implants
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is an artificial replacement for a tooth root, usually made from titanium. There are many different implant systems available and when competently used they deliver a highly reliable form of treatment. The main aim during the placement of any implant is to achieve immediate close contact with the surrounding bone. Over time further growth of bone on to the implant surface enhances the stability of the implant.
In order to support replacement teeth, dental implants normally have some form of internal screw thread or post space that allows a variety of components to be fitted.
Once fitted, these components provide the foundation for long support of crowns, bridges, and dentures.
At Portstewart Family dental we use Biomet, Adin, Ankylos and Sky implants.
Who is suitable for dental implants?
Dental implants are suitable for most adults with good general health. They can be used once the jawbone has stopped growing and so generally are not used in younger patients. Habits such as drinking heavily, or smoking can increase the number of problems associated with initial healing and therefore may be bad for the long-term health of gum and bone surrounding each implant.
How will you know if you are suitable for implants?
At your initial consultation the dentist will assess the feasibility of providing implant treatment. You will be expected to answer detailed questions concerning your medical history and there will be a complete examination of your mouth and remaining teeth to discover the nature and extent of any current dental problems. Usually, x-rays will be taken and models of the prepared so these can be examined after your visit.
These x-rays and models will be used to determine the optimal position for an implant, how many implants can be placed in the gap and the quality and volume of bone that is available.
How long does treatment take?
For routine cases, from the time of implant placement to the time of placing the first tooth/teeth, treatment times can vary between six weeks and six months. The availability of better quality of bone can be used to decrease treatment time, whilst more time and care must be taken with poorer bone, which can therefore extend treatment times beyond six months.
An overview of the implant process
Implant treatment normally involves several stages that take place over a period of time from three to nine months. Although there are various implant treatment methods, a typical process often includes:
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1. Assessment and treatment planning:
At initial consultation, following full discussion of all possible alternatives, the dentist will assess the feasibility of providing implant treatment. X-rays will be taken, and models of the teeth prepared. A written treatment plan will then be formulated detailing the sequence of treatment and associated costs
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2. Implant placement
Implant placement is a relatively simple minor surgical procedure that can be performed under local anaesthesia with sedation if required. If, during assessment, the underlying bone is deemed deficient, several options are available for bone regeneration. Bone regeneration is carried out prior to or at the same time as implant placement depending on requirements.
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3. Integration period
Implants can take from six weeks to six months to fuse with the patient’s bone. During this integration period, temporary dentures or bridgework can be worn as appropriate. In some cases, temporary teeth can be fixed to the implants while they integrate in a process known as ‘immediate loading’.
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4. The restorative phase
Once integrated, the implants can be brought into function with a variety of new teeth options (definitive restorations) ranging from a single crown, small or large bridge or a removable overdenture. A dental technician who works closely with the dental surgeon constructs these definitive restorations.
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5. Maintenance
Following completion of implant treatment, the patient must regularly and thoroughly clean the new teeth (restorations) as instructed by their dentist. A dental hygienist may also advise on care and maintenance of the restorations and natural teeth. Regular visits to your dentist are essential so that the health of the soft tissue, bone levels and the integrity of the restoration can be reviewed.