Common Dental Implant FAQs

Q. What is a Dental Implant?

A.

A dental implant is a small titanium thin metal rod which acts as a replacement root of a tooth. These implants can fuse with the bone of the patients jaw via a healing process called osseointegration.

It can then be used to support a single crown or several false teeth(Prosthesis)

Once a suitable period of time has elapsed to allow healing after extraction, you will be ready for the placement of your replacement tooth/teeth or restoration

An implant can look like a small dark grey screw, very similar to those found in everyday life.These screws are somewhat special because they are made from titanium, and go through multiple tests to make sure they are safe in humans. Each implant is then designed with a special connection to which an abutment can be connected your prosthesis is then attached to the abutment There are various brands available such as Astra Tech and Straumann, the longer established brands generally cover more evidence on their use and research into making their implants stronger and better. Implants can be restored with either crowns, bridges or dentures. Advantages of Dental Implants Dental implants have been shown to, improve patients satisfaction, quality of life and food choices

Q. How many Implants do I need?

A.

You dont always need one implant per tooth! With just 2-4 implants in the lower jaw and 4-6 Implants in the top jaw you could be eating your favourite foods such as steak and lamb in no time.

How long will they Last?

With good evidence and history to show Implants can last you for 30 + years, with success rates as high as 95% over 10years, Dental Implants are one of the most predictable treatments in dentistry and medicine.

How much will they cost me?

When the costs are broken down over the life time of the treatment Implant treatment is very good value for money. From as little as £3 a day you could have dental implant treatment. There are always cheaper alternatives but no with the comfort level provided by dental implants these are becoming the most common choice.

Does the process hurt?

You are thoroughly numb during the procedure, and after treatment most patients only require the same level of painkillers that they take for a mild headache. A lot of patients return to work the next day and can carry on with their day to day activities.

Is it safe?

The Titanium that is used in dental implants is so friendly to the body it can even be used in Hip and other joint replacements. The success rate of implants is as high as 95% in some cases.

Can I have dental Implants?

One of the most critical factors in success of implants is the quality and volume of bone, by taking a small dose and volume Dental CT scan the implant dentist can quickly assess the chances of success in implant treatment. Sometimes Sinus lift/ augmentation procedures may be required, these can increase the treatment time required but and are normally carried out by an experienced surgeon.

Who can have Dental Implants?

The first stage in the process is a thorough clinical exam where one of our Implant team will assess you for the suitability of this treatment. Sometimes you may need some treatment carried out before the provision of a dental implant is possible, be rest assured at Blue Sky Dental we can handle all complexities thrown to us.

How do I find a suitable surgeon?

The best way to find a suitable surgeon is to look for a dentist with experience and training. It is commonly accepted that Prosthodontic Specialists, Periodontal Specialists and Specialist Oral Surgeons are well trained and respected experts in this field of Dentistry.

Q. How do I know if my dental implant is successful?

A. The success of your implant treatment depends entirely on your body’s reaction to them and your personal care and hygiene habits. Implants are known to fail more due to severe gum diseases. However, with the latest developments in technology and treatments, the success rate of dental implants has risen considerably to 95%

Q. Can smoking and consumption of alcohol affect the survival of implants?

A. Yes.Both smoking and heavy alcohol consumption can considerably reduce the survival of implants as well as of the teeth for that matter. Smoking and Alcohol can also increase your risk of Oral Cancer.

Q. How long will they last?

A. Implants should last you for 30 + years, with success rates as high as 95% over 10years. Dental Implants are one of the most predictable treatments in dentistry and medicine.

Q. How much will dental implants cost me?

A. When the costs are broken down over the life time of the treatment, dental implant treatment is very good value for money! You could have dental implant treatment for as little as £3 a day. There are always cheaper alternatives but none with the comfort level provided by dental implants, which are becoming the most common choice.

Dental Implant Cost

A.  The cost of a dental implant is based on

• The quality of the Dental Implant

• The ability and experience of a dental surgeon

• The quality of the crown placed on the dental implant

• The quality of the implant