The 1965 Gamechanger
Just a few short decades ago, if you had to lose a tooth, that tooth was gone for good.
But back in 1965, after the first successful dental implant surgery took place, the game has been changed, providing people with the opportunity to replace lost teeth.
Since then, dental implants have become more and more popular, and as we’re regularly performing implant surgery here at Brightside, I thought I’d just run through the key questions related to implants:
First up, what are they?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, usually made of titanium and surgically placed into your jawbone. They provide a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth that are made to match your natural teeth.
What’s good about them?
1. They look and feel natural. Implants are designed to look, feel, and function like your natural teeth. This makes them a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing option for tooth replacement.
2. They should last a long, long time. With proper care, dental implants can last many years, often a lifetime. This durability makes them a cost-effective long-term solution.
3. They improve your oral health. Unlike dental bridges, which require cutting down supporting teeth, dental implants do not affect other teeth. This helps maintain your overall oral health and hygiene.
4. They help you eat and speak like normal. Dental implants function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat your favourite foods without discomfort. They also improve your ability to speak clearly, as they eliminate the slipping and discomfort associated with dentures.
5. They prevent bone loss. Implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to prevent the bone loss that can occur with missing teeth. This maintains your facial structure and prevents the sunken appearance that often accompanies tooth loss.
What are the drawbacks?
1. They aren’t cheap. Dental implants can be a larger investment than alternative options, but many patients find the benefits justify the investment.
2. The process is pretty extensive. The implant process involves surgery, which carries risks such as infection, nerve damage, and sinus issues. Recovery time can vary, and you may experience discomfort and swelling.
3. It takes time. Getting dental implants is not a quick fix. The process involves multiple steps, including consultations, the implant surgery, and several months of healing before the final crown can be placed.
4. There can be complications. While success rates for dental implants are high, there is a small risk of complications such as implant failure or rejection. Proper care and regular dental check-ups are essential to mitigate these risks.
Having spoken to lots of patients about implants over the years, we’re aware of some of the most common questions people have about them, and if you’re considering implants you might have some of the same:
- Will it hurt?
It’s an understandable concern. We numb the area during surgery, so you won’t feel anything, and some patients choose intra-venous sedation when the implant is being placed. In most cases, recovery is fairly pain-free and straightforward.
- How long will an implant last?
Looked after, an implant can last a lifetime. Practising good oral hygiene, with brushing, flossing and regular checkups, you can look after your implant, and it’ll then look after you.
- How much does it cost?
A dental implant isn’t cheap, but at Brightside, we offer payment plans, so you’re able to spread the cost of treatment, while we also have an insurance backed guarantee (which we pay for in year one, and give you the option to extend) – this gives you the peace of mind that future costs are covered.
- Is it right for me?
Implants aren’t right for everyone, and we’ll need to consider bone density and overall health before making a recommendation. In some cases, there are procedures that might need to take place first, to put you in a position where implants are possible.
- Is it worth it?
We’ve performed dental implant surgery for many of our patients, and have some incredibly success stories – click below to see how Chris got on with his dental implants
If you think dental implants could be an option for you, just drop me an email back or call us on 020 8888 4401 and we can answer any questions you have, and if appropriate, book you in for a consultation.
Ketan
