Dental implants demystified
We’ve had several questions in about dental implants recently – what they are, who they’re for, what the process is like – and we figured it might be sensible to share the answers with more people.
So, if you’ve ever wondered about dental implants and whether they could be right for you or a friend or family member, this is for you…
First up: what are dental implants?
Dental implants are like little titanium posts that replace the roots of missing teeth. They act as sturdy anchors for replacement teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or even full dentures. The result? A natural-looking, functional smile that feels as good as it looks.
Okay, so you’re interested. What’s next?
Step 1: Initial Appointment
Your journey begins with a thorough consultation. Your dentist will assess your oral health, review X-rays, and discuss your treatment goals. If dental implants are right for you, we’ll sit down and create a personalised treatment plan for you.
Step 2: Preparatory Work (If Needed)
Some patients need a bit of prep before the implant process. This might include tooth extractions or bone grafting if the jawbone isn’t strong enough to support implants. Don’t worry—these steps are all part of creating a strong foundation.
Step 3: The Implant Placement
The big day! During this procedure, our surgeon Shahrokh will place the dental implants into your jawbone. Thanks to modern techniques and advanced pain management, this step is usually much easier than people expect. Many patients are surprised at how little discomfort they feel afterward.
After placement, your jawbone needs time to heal and form a strong bond with the implants—a process called osseointegration. This takes a few months but is key to ensuring the implants are secure and long-lasting.
Step 4: Attaching the Abutment
Once your implants are fully integrated, a small connector piece, called an abutment, is attached to each implant. The abutment serves as the link between the implant and your new tooth.
Step 5: The Final Restoration
Here’s where your smile gets its finishing touch! Your dentist will create a custom crown, bridge, or denture to attach to the abutment. These replacement teeth are designed to match your natural teeth perfectly in colour and shape.
Once the process it’s complete, it’s time to focus on looking after your implant, and the good news is thatdental implants are easy to care for. Treat them just like your natural teeth with regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. With proper care, your implants can last a lifetime.
Are dental implants for you?
Dental implants are a long-term solution that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth. They help preserve your jawbone and facial structure, improve your confidence, and let you enjoy your favourite foods again.
If you’re wondering about implants, you’ll probably find the below video useful, where a long standing Brightside patient shares his dental implant experience:
Your next step
If you’re interested in implants, the next stage is an initial assessment – hit reply to book yours or give us a call on 020 8888 4401 and we’ll be happy to help.
Ketan
