Dental Implants have proven to be the answer to many patients' dental problems, both functional and aesthetic. If you are missing one or more teeth and would like to restore your natural smile, eat and speak with comfort and confidence, then dental implants may be a solution for you.

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» Cosmetic treatments
» Implantology

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a titanium rod that is gently placed into the jawbone to act as an anchor to support one or more crowns or a denture. Each implant can usually be used to support up to two false teeth. One major advantage of an implant is that it avoids the need to drill down the teeth either side of the "gap" which would normally be necessary in preparation of a conventional bridge. Implants can also be used as anchors to improve the stability and retention of loose dentures. Patients find great improvements during speech and eating, increased comfort and renewed confidence.

Who can have implants?

Mark Shimmin will carry out a thorough examination taking appropriate x-rays and models of your teeth, to see if your case is suitable. It is dependent on the state of the bone in the area of the planned implants. Occasionally there is not enough bone or it is not healthy enough, and it may not be possible to proceed with treatment.

What does the treatment involve?

Placing of the implants involves a simple operation which is carried out in the dental surgery using a normal local anaesthetic. The after effects are similar to having a tooth extracted i.e. you may feel mild discomfort and swelling due to the normal healing processes.

The implant must be allowed to bond (integrate) with the bone. This can take from 3 to 6 months depending on the individual case. During this time your dentist will be able to make a temporary replacement for your missing teeth. Once healing and integration have occurred the permanent replacement is made and fitted.

How successful is the treatment?

Implantology is a tried and tested treatment and 90% of modern implants last for at least 20 years. Being implanted into the bone, like natural teeth, implants require thorough cleaning. Implants can fail due to gum disease, just as teeth do. Cleaning around the implants is no more difficult than cleaning your natural teeth. We will strongly advise all patients to see the dental hygienist on a regular basis to maintain the healthy status of the implant and the rest of the teeth and gums. Both smoking and heavy alcohol consumption reduce the chance of success. However if you avoid these two habits and maintain good oral hygiene then you should not have a problem.

Who will carry out the Implant treatment?

We are very fortunate to be able to offer you this service here at Linden Dental Surgery by Mark Shimmin. This is a great benefit to you, our patients, avoiding the delay of outside referrals. Your treatment can be carried out in familiar surroundings, in the convenience of your own practice. Mark has undertaken extensive training in the UK with an 18 month advanced training course at Sheffield University and further courses in Gothenburg and Belgium. He uses the Branemark implant system. If you have any questions regarding Dental Implants, please do not hesitate to discuss them with your own dentist, who will refer you to Mark for a consultation if appropriate. Mark will assess your suitability and explain fully your treatment options, the stages of treatment and estimated costs.