What is an Implant?
A dental implant is an artificial replacement for a tooth root, from which a restoration such as single crown, bridge or denture can be supported from. Unfortunately, when natural teeth are lost any replacement is a compromise. Dental implants are the best option as they do not compromise healthy teeth like a dental bridge, and like natural teeth they stimulate the jaw and prevent further bone loss.
Bone, Bone, Bone
When it comes to dental implants bone is very important, having enough good quality bone is key. By taking x-ray’s and 3D scans a good indication of how much bone is available can be established. However, in some circumstances, the quality and amount cannot be accurately assessed until surgery when the bone is exposed (especially if infection has been associated in the area of replacement). In these situations, artificial bone can be placed and this can delay final restoration, and in some cases placement may not be able to go ahead and other options will have to be considered.
Oral Health
Having a healthy mouth is vital for placement and longevity of the implants, Gum disease is a major cause of bone loss and gum recession. It is imperative that implant patients maintain a high level of oral health with regular visits to both the Dentist and Hygienist, so this can be reviewed routinely.
Smoking is a major contributor to gum disease and implants run a much higher risk of failure in patients that smoke, therefore if you are a smoker and considering implant placement we would strongly advise you to stop smoking. In heavy smokers, we reserve the right to decline implant replacement.
Aesthetics
With every restoration constructed we endeavour to produce the most aesthetically pleasing result we can. The restoration also needs to function like a tooth and to achieve this at the fit appointments slight adjustments may have to be made not only to the new restoration but on some occasions to opposing or adjacent teeth. This is done to enable the patient to bite together correctly and to be able to floss effectively.
Sometimes due to bone and gum recession during the healing process, when it comes to the final fit of the restoration a small gap can occur between the gum and the restoration, so the abutment which is made from metal and fits into the implant will be visible.
It’s imperative that the patients keep the implant site cleaned with regular brushing and flossing to prevent further recession.