Traditionally dentures and bridges have been the only options for replacing missing teeth. Some people find that dentures can be uncomfortable, painful, and don’t always remain in place causing embarrassing clicking noises when eating, speaking or laughing.
A dental implant is an artificial replacement for a tooth root, usually made from titanium. They are suitable for most adults with good general health and are a more permanent solution to replacing missing teeth.
If you have several teeth missing it may result in a large gap in your mouth preventing you from eating and speaking as well as affecting the appearance of your smile.
Multiple dental implants can be placed to restore these larger gaps. These can be as a combination of single implants and cosmetic crowns or a cosmetic bridge connecting implants together. The number of implants required depends on several differing factors. We will discuss all options with you at your consultation.
Dentures can be difficult to wear or even become loose and move about, causing difficulty in eating and speaking, dental implants can be used to secure your denture into a set position.
Two to four implants are placed in the lower jaw and four implants in the upper jaw, allowing dentures to be secured into position when needed whilst still being removable for cleaning.
Implant secured dentures are also more comfortable than traditional type dentures, allowing you to retain a more natural biting and chewing function.
They are the most natural solution, aesthetically and functionally.
They fit harmoniously into the dental arch.
They cannot be distinguished from real teeth in their function or appearance.
They provide a stable foundation for dentures, sparing patients the disadvantages of conventional dentures such as pressure points and poor fit. The palate is also no longer covered by plastic denture material, which has a positive effect on speech and the sense of taste.
They make it unnecessary to grind the neighbouring teeth.
They can prevent bone deterioration. Like natural tooth roots, implants transmit chewing forces evenly to the jaw bone. If this stress is absent, as with conventional solutions, the jaw bone shrinks slowly.
They are reliable and a more permanent solution to replacing missing teeth.