Dental Implant Treatment

Why Might You Need a Dental Implant?

Tooth loss can occur for several reasons, including:

• Tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Failed root canal treatment
• Dental trauma or an accident
• Excessive tooth wear
• Certain dental or genetic conditions
• Tooth loss and changes in the position of surrounding teeth

A missing tooth can affect chewing and may also allow neighbouring teeth to move into the space. Your dentist can assess the tooth and surrounding structures and discuss suitable replacement options.

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a titanium plug that is placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root.

Once the implant has integrated with the surrounding bone, it can support a dental restoration. Depending on your circumstances, this may be a crown for an individual missing tooth or a bridge where more than one tooth needs to be replaced.

The implant itself is positioned below the gum, while the restoration provides the visible replacement tooth.

How Are Dental Implants Planned?

Initial Consultation

Your treatment begins with an assessment of your teeth, gums and overall oral health. Your dentist will discuss your concerns, dental history and what you would like to achieve.

Assessment of the Implant Site

The condition and available bone at the proposed implant site are important considerations. Appropriate dental imaging may be recommended to provide additional information for treatment planning.

Treatment Planning

Your dentist will explain the proposed treatment and restoration. The number and position of implants, the condition of the surrounding teeth and gums and your individual circumstances will all be considered.

What Happens During Dental Implant Treatment?

Once treatment has been planned, the implant is placed into the jawbone.

The implant then requires time to integrate with the surrounding bone. This process provides the foundation for the replacement tooth or teeth.

Once the implant is ready for restoration, a crown or bridge can be fitted as planned.

The number of appointments and overall treatment time vary between patients. Your dentist will explain the expected stages before treatment begins.

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Dental implants may provide several benefits when they are suitable for the patient.

Replacing a Missing Tooth

An implant-supported crown can fill the space created by a missing tooth and restore the visible part of the smile.

Supporting Function

Replacing a missing tooth can help restore chewing function and provide a fixed alternative to a removable tooth replacement.

Supporting the Jawbone

When a natural tooth is lost, the bone that previously supported the tooth can gradually deteriorate. An implant replaces the root and can help maintain bone around the implant site.

Fixed Tooth Replacement

Once treatment is complete, an implant-supported restoration is fixed in place rather than being removed like a conventional removable denture.

Are Dental Implants Suitable for Everyone?

Dental implants are not automatically suitable for every patient.

Your dentist will consider factors including the condition of your teeth and gums, the available bone at the implant site and your general dental circumstances.

Existing problems such as active gum disease or untreated tooth decay may need to be addressed before implant treatment can proceed.

Your consultation provides an opportunity to discuss whether an implant is an appropriate option for you.

Dental Implants and Dental Sedation

Some patients feel anxious about dental treatment. At GreenTree Dental & Implant Clinic, conscious dental sedation can be discussed with suitable patients.

If you are considering dental implants and are concerned about treatment, tell your dental team during your consultation. They can discuss whether dental sedation may be appropriate for your circumstances. Dental sedation consultations are free.

Looking After Your Dental Implants

Good oral hygiene remains important after implant treatment. You will receive advice on caring for your implant, restoration and surrounding teeth.

Regular dental examinations and hygiene appointments can help monitor your oral health and the condition of your implant-supported restoration.

Contact your dental practice if you experience persistent pain, swelling, mobility or another unexpected change.

What If Dental Implants Are Not Suitable?

Dental implants are one option for replacing missing teeth, but they are not appropriate in every situation.

Depending on your circumstances, your dentist may discuss other options such as bridges or dentures. The most appropriate approach depends on the condition of your teeth, gums, bone and overall oral health.

Dental Implants at GreenTree Dental & Implant Clinic

At GreenTree Dental & Implant Clinic in Paignton, we provide free, personalised dental implant consultations to help patients understand their options for replacing missing teeth.

If you have a missing or severely damaged tooth, an assessment can help determine whether dental implant treatment may be appropriate and what the proposed treatment would involve.