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Dental implants are among the most successful procedures used to replace missing teeth. Studies have shown a greater than 90% five-year success rate. Even though there are a number of other restorative options available for the treatment of missing teeth, dental implants in London have proven to be functionally effective and durable. In countless cases, dental implants may be the choice for the restoration of all required functioning of the teeth and their supporting structures. Dental implants are more natural looking, and stronger and more durable than their restorative counterparts (bridges, removable partial and full dentures) and offer a more permanent solution to tooth loss. Implants can be used for single tooth or multiple teeth replacement(s), and can also be used to stabilize partial or full dentures. Your dentist will decide which type and how many dental implants are required to obtain the optimal result.Any dentist trained in the placement of implants can perform this procedure; however the patient may be referred to a dental specialist. A dental team approach usually provides the patient with the best results. Successful implants require that all parties involved; the patient, and the dental team, outline and follow a careful plan of treatment and stay in close contact with each other to make sure the patient’s expectations are met.
Dental implants are mostly composed of a titanium material screw and a crown. A small-diameter hole (pilot hole) is drilled where the implant is to be placed to effectively guide the titanium screw that holds a dental implant in place. To avoid damaging vital jaw and face structures, the dentist must use great skill and expertise when boring the pilot hole and sizing the jaw bone. For best results the dentist usually performs a comprehensive oral examination, X-rays and even a CT-Scan (a three-dimensional jaw scan), to ensure ideal dental implant placement.
Implants are typically placed in a single sitting but require a period of osteointegration; a process by which the jaw bone attached to the implant. Osteointegrated implants are the most universally used and successful dental implants. These implants take anywhere from three to six months to anchor and heal. Once significant osteointegration occurs, the restorative procedure can be completed. In contrast, if osteointegration does not occur, the implant will fail. Dental implants must also be cleaned regularly, as peri-implantitis (oral bone loss) can occur around them causing them to fail. On the plus side, dental implants are not susceptible to the formation of cavities.