If you are looking for a long-term treatment option for missing teeth, look no further than dental implants. Dental implants are one of the most important and exciting innovations in modern dentistry and they are becoming more popular every year.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are screw-shaped dental appliances, which are used to replace the root of a missing tooth. Implants are made from titanium, which enables integration into the jaw bone; this process is known as osseointegration and it takes between 5 and 9 months.

Once a dental implant has integrated into the jawbone, it can be attached to a new restoration. Implants are a very versatile treatment because they can be connected to a single crown, a dental bridge or a denture.

What are the advantages of dental implants?

Dental implants have a host of advantages; the main benefit is that they last for a very long time and represent a permanent solution for missing teeth. Implants also integrate into the bone tissue without interfering with the gums or the neighbouring teeth and once in place, they can be attached to a range of restorations to replace any number of missing teeth. Implants also produce amazing, natural looking aesthetics and they work in exactly the same way as natural teeth. Dental implants can also help to reduce bone loss.

What does implant treatment involve?

Implant treatment usually takes several months because the implants have to integrate into the jawbone. After a consultation, an appointment will be scheduled to fit the implants; this involves making an incision in the gum, lifting a flap and drilling a hole in the bone. The implant is then fixed into the socket and the flap is closed and the incision sutured. The implant is then left to settle.

Once the implant has integrated, the restoration can be attached to the abutment; treatment is then complete and you can enjoy your new smile.