Dental implants
Dental implants are a modern alternative to the regular style of dentures, crowns or bridges. Rather than the false teeth being held in the mouth with a plate, the implants are actually fixed to the jaw bone with a metal rod, which acts as a "root" for the false tooth. Although the fitting of a dental implant can be more complicated than the fitting of dentures or crowns, it is much more beneficial for the patient involved. Dental implants are fitted more securely in the mouth and are easier to keep clean as food and plaque will not get trapped under the plate.
The false teeth used in dental implants look just the same as regular false teeth, and can be matched to your own natural tooth colour. The implant part looks something like a normal, metal screw, and it is this part which is attached to the jawbone. Over time, the implant fuses with the jaw bone, and you can remove the false teeth and attach new ones as necessary. Dental implants can be used in cases where the patient has only lost one or two teeth, or when they need all their teeth replacing.
What does the procedure involve?
The procedure to fit the implant will normally be carried out under local anaesthetic, with a small incision made in the gum to access the jawbone. The dentist will then drill a small hole into the jaw for the screw part of the implant to fit into. The tooth part will be added a few months later, once this initial part of the procedure has healed sufficiently.
Dental implants are not only more secure and more hygienic, but they look more natural and can blend in with your remaining teeth well. They are an increasingly popular alternative to dentures and crowns at our Nottingham Smiles practice.
