implants

Dental Implants

What are dental implants?

Implants are one way of replacing missing teeth. A post is planted in the jaw bone to support a replacement tooth. This acts like the root of a natural tooth. Implants can also be used to support fixed bridges or dentures.

Implant treatment normally has two stages. First, the implant is placed in the jaw. Then, when the jaw has healed, replacement teeth are attached to the implant. In some situations it is possible for temporary teeth to be attached to an implant at the time of fitting.

Would implants be right for me?

First, you should decide whether implants could be right for you. Contact us to arrange an implant consultation and discussion and we will let you know the possibilities. Our team will be only too happy to help you with any questions you may have.

If you decide to go ahead, this is what will happen.

  • Implants are put into holes in the jaw with a local anaesthetic. You can opt to have sedation for this procedure also.
  • The implant is screwed or pushed in and the gum is stitched so that it heals over the implant
  • Under the gum, the bone then grows around the implant to hold it firm. This takes several months.

Implants usually have two sections – the post in the jaw and an extension that is added later when the post is secure. Attaching the extension needs a small cut in the gum above the implant. You might have more than one implant. The replacement teeth might be fixed permanently (like a crown or bridge) or attached in a way which lets you remove them for cleaning (like a denture).

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are someone who suffers from missing teeth, loose dentures, or your tooth has become infected and needs to be pulled out; implants can be an excellent solution for you. If you have a gap in your mouth from a missing tooth, it is vital that you do not leave it untreated. When there is an open gap in your mouth, the surrounding teeth must adapt to cope with the increased pressure and stress; this can make your teeth vulnerable to cavities, infection, and cracking. Patients with back tooth loss naturally adjust their bite by only chewing on one side of the mouth; this can weaken the jawbone causing the inner bone and connective tissue to be fragile.

Dental Implants are most commonly made from titanium, which is one of the most compatible metals with human bone and tissue. Titanium is a favoured material as it is light in density but still durable and can last a lifetime with a good oral hygiene routine.

The process of getting dental implants consists of three stages:
• The first consultation
During your initial consultation, you will discuss whether dental implants would be a beneficial treatment; a clinical assessment may be done at this stage to ensure that your teeth, gums, and jawbone are suited for an implant.
• Treatment appointment
Your soft tissues will be prepared using a local anaesthetic, and a small hole will be drilled into the jawbone where the dental implant will be placed. Titanium implants are then placed into your jaw, and in time your bone will merge with the implant and grow around the fixture; this process takes roughly two to six months to complete.
• Final treatment appointment
Once your implant is completely healed, a crown or bridge must be placed on top of the implant post to finish your smile. This fixture will be perfectly matched to your desires and blend naturally with your other teeth.

Dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution to tooth loss and can last between 20-30 years. However, like all treatments, this depends on how well you look after your teeth and your oral hygiene routine. You should have regular dental check-ups to ensure that your mouth is healthy and there aren’t any dental problems being left untreated.

Patient Testimonials

See what our patients say about their experience here with us at East End Lodge.

Veronica – Implant Patient

“I had a bridge and it had been in there for quite some time, probably at least 20 years. And so it was getting loose and it had already been cemented back in a couple of times. So I was recommended to have dental implants, so that’s what I did really. My first impressions of the practice was that it was very clean and tidy, staff are very kind and courteous, treatments were explained to you. I know all the dentists are really good at their jobs.

After my treatment went really good, I had regular checkups when I’ve had the treatment to make sure that they had taken and there was no problems, no infections or swelling or any other problems, and that the implants had taken. And so I was really pleased overall, and haven’t looked back since.”

Spread The Cost

0% and longer term finance options available

Don’t delay your dental treatment — take advantage of our 0% and longer term payment plans. Speak to our friendly reception team for more information and to find out if your treatment is eligible.

East End Lodge Logo
Based on 4,500+ reviews

Trusted Score 4.8 / 5.0