Dental Implants FAQs

People who are troubled by missing teeth, ill-fitting dentures and unstable fixed bridges can read through the common questions listed below or can read the testimonials of patients that have been treated with implants at our practice.

Are Dental Implants for me?

If you are considering dental implants, I will examine your mouth thoroughly and review your dental and medical history to ensure that dental implants are appropriate for you. Dental x-rays will be taken to evaluate your jawbone and to determine if it will accommodate implants. Occasionally, more detailed information is required and can be provided by CT scans, as they will help determine where best to place the implant in complicated cases. We always try to have enough time to discuss questions that you may have.

Is it Painful?

The implant insertion is carried out under a local anaesthetic and as such you will feel no pain during any part of the operation. After the operation, when the anaesthetic starts to wear off, you may feel some pain and discomfort until such time as the painkillers take effect. There is usually some swelling and bruises may appear. These symptoms are at their height two or three days after the operation, but most patients report that it is much less painful than anticipated. Ordinary painkillers are usually sufficient, but over 80% of patients report no need for pain killers the day after surgery.

What are consequences of tooth loss?

Throughout the course of life, teeth are lost for many reasons.
Missing teeth at the front of your mouth can result in a visible defect affecting the appearance of your smile, your self-confidence and possibly your speech. Missing teeth at the back of your mouth can affect your bite, your face and your ability to eat.

How long have dental implants been in use?

Implants have been in use for over 40 years and have always been subject to the strictest quality controls in research, development, and manufacturing.
At our practice we only use well researched implants with a proven track record of success. They are also globally recognised brands.

Are dental implants widely used?

Several million patients world-wide can already testify to the benefits of tooth replacement with dental implants. Implant treatment is recognised as a proven alternative to traditional methods of tooth replacement. Most dentists now consider implant treatment as the preferred method of tooth replacement.

Why are the screws made of titanium?

Titanium has the unique property of fusing with the bone tissue through a process known as Osseointegration. The process is similar to the healing that occurs when a bone in the body is broken and then subsequently mends. This process gives the dental implant its strength of attachment.

What are the success rates?

Implant treatments have been carried out for over 40 years and the success rates are high. The predictability of dental implants has reached 100% in certain studies however this success rate is dependent on the individual and also on the site in which the implant is placed.

How long will treatment take?

This varies for each patient but it can range from 4 to 8 months.How many visits to the dentist does the treatment involve?
It depends on your dental health and the exact treatment that is best for you. With the initial examination, the surgery and prosthetic work it normally takes 6-10 visits to complete your treatment.

What should I eat?

Keep to a diet of soft foods and liquids for a short period after the dental implant operation to avoid any extra strain on the implants. But once your implants are integrated and fully restored it is possible to resume a normal diet. Even biting into apples is perfectly permissible.

How do we keep a check on the health of the implants?

Patients are seen as required for the duration of their treatment. They also have emergency on-call access following surgery. Following the completion of their treatment, patients are reviewed for up to 5 years on an annual basis initially and then biannually by me. All patients remain under the care of their General Dental Practitioner for routine treatment both during and after implant treatment. Of course all treatment plans are specific to patients needs but the following Price Guide give and indication of our fees.

Does my age matter?

Your age is normally not relevant, more important is your health. If you are under twenty, you must have finished growing before you can undergo implant treatment.

Is treatment costly?

It depends entirely on the number of implants required and the complexity of the case. The best way to establish treatment cost is to arrange for a consultation as every patient and every case is unique and needs to be quoted on an individual basis.It is worth remembering that successful and predictable implant dentistry requires time and the use of safe and bio-compatible components. From the manufacture right through to the final rebuild attention to detail is paramount in achieving success and this has a bearing on fees. For the safeguard of the patient this clinic only uses international, evidence-based implant systems which have an established domestic and worldwide network of clinicians should support be required away from home.What role am I expected to play in looking after my implants? It is important that patients maintain a high standard of oral health if their implants are to perform successfully. The care provided by their practitioner is essential for this. All patients are asked to see their own dentist for their routine reviews. We will give you specific personal instruction on how to care for your implants.

How do we keep a check on the health of the implants?

Patients are seen as required for the duration of their treatment. They also have emergency on-call access following surgery. Following the completion of their treatment, patients are reviewed for up to 5 years on an annual basis initially and then biannually. All patients remain under the care of their General Dental Practitioner for routine treatment both during and after implant treatment.

Of course all treatment plans are specific to patients needs but the following Price Guide give and indication of our fees.