Dental implant surgery, available at Edlington Dental Care in Doncaster, replaces tooth roots with metal posts and damaged or missing teeth with artificial ones that look and function like real teeth. This procedure offers an alternative to dentures or bridgework that may not fit well and can be an option when natural tooth roots are insufficient for these replacements.

The procedure varies based on the type of implant and jawbone condition and often involves multiple stages, taking several months due to necessary healing time. The main advantage of implants is the solid support they provide, as the bone must heal tightly around the implant.

Why it’s done:

Dental implants, made of titanium, are surgically placed in your jawbone to act as the roots of missing teeth. They fuse with the bone, preventing slippage, noise, or bone damage that dentures or bridgework might cause. The materials also resist decay, unlike natural teeth supporting bridgework.

Eligibility for implants:

You might be a suitable candidate for dental implants if you:

• Have one or more missing teeth
• Have a fully grown jawbone
• Have adequate bone for securing implants or can undergo a bone graft
• Have healthy oral tissues
• Do not have conditions affecting bone healing
• Are unable or unwilling to wear dentures
• Want to improve your speech
• Can commit several months to the process
• Do not smoke

Risks:

Although rare, risks include infection, damage to surrounding teeth or blood vessels, nerve damage, and sinus problems.

Preparation:

Preparation involves:

• Comprehensive dental exam with X-rays and 3D images
• Review of medical history
• A tailored treatment plan

Depending on the type of anaesthesia used, you may need someone to take you home post-surgery.

Procedure:

Dental implant surgery is typically outpatient and performed in stages:

1. Damaged tooth removal
2. Jawbone preparation (grafting), if needed
3. Implant placement
4. Bone growth and healing
5. Abutment placement
6. Artificial tooth placement

Bone grafting may be necessary if the jawbone is too soft or thin. The healing process, called osseointegration, can take several months.

Post-procedure care:

After each stage, you might experience swelling, bruising, pain, or minor bleeding. Pain medications and antibiotics may be required. Eating soft foods during healing is recommended.

Results:

Most dental implants are successful, though issues like insufficient bone fusion can occur, necessitating removal and a retry after a few months. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and avoiding damaging habits can help ensure long-lasting results.

Our Doncaster implant team have numerous years of combined implant experience to create your dream smile, and are happy to get you in as soon as possible for your first implant consultation