We appreciate that the actual treatment can seem a bit daunting. So we have put together a short guide, so you will know what to expect when you visit us for your appointments.
If you have any questions that are not answered here, then please do let us know, we'll be happy to answer them and set your mind at ease.
Before we can begin your treatment, we need to carry out a full examination of your mouth and jaw so we can ensure that you are suitable for treatment, and decide on which is the best way forward for you.
We will carry out a thorough examination of your teeth and gums, including an oral cancer screening. This is similar to the regular check-up examinations your usual dentist gives you. We need to carry it out so that we know whether there are any additional issues that we need to take into account when treating you. For example, if you have any signs of gum disease, we may need to get this under control before we place any implants. Similarly, we will need to assess the levels of bone you have around the implant site(s) - if there is not enough to support an implant, then we may need to consider promoting additional bone growth, or carrying out a bone graft.
We may also need to take impressions (moulds) of your teeth and make models of them, and carry out further investigative tests such as 3D-scanning.
Once we have all the information we need, we can discuss with you which treatment is best suited to you, and how we can progress from here. Once you and our team have made all the necessary treatment decisions, we will send you a written treatment plan, with complete costings and explanations, so you will know exactly what to expect.
This is the stage that our patients tend to worry about most, but it is usually much easier for you than you think! We usually make your appointment for an hour, but in fact the actual surgery only usually takes about 15 minutes. The other 45 minutes is to allow time to make sure you are comfortable and relaxed, to numb the area, and to chat about any further decisions that may need to be made.
Obviously, we carry out the surgery as gently and as carefully as we can. There is some drilling involved, but this is different from the usual dental drilling - there is no high pitched noise, just a gentle vibration. Many patients say it is actually more comfortable than root canal treatment or having a tooth removed. All members of our implant team are exceptionally well qualified and experienced in implant surgery, so you can relax safe in the knowledge that you are in the hands of some of the world's top experts.
After the surgery you may have some stitches. These will dissolve on their own, but if they are bothering you we will of course remove them for you.
If the gap where your implant is being placed is visible, we will place a temporary tooth for you. There is no need for a gap at any stage if you do not want one.
We will give you written information telling you how best to care for your implant and the surrounding area.
Your implants will need to be left for at least eight weeks to enable your bone to completely bond with them.
After this, we will uncover your implants, and attach a healing cap. Sometimes we will fit the healing cap at the same time as your implant, making your treatment even easier. There are rare occasions when we find that the bone has not fused, and we have to replace the implant. We carry out this replacement free of charge, and it is usually both simple and successful.
The final stages of your treatment are very similar to previous treatments you may have had. We will take an impression of your mouth, together with specialist photos of your other teeth, so your new teeth can be carefully crafted to provide a perfect fit and colour match.
Once your new teeth are ready, we will remove the healing cap and any temporary restorations, and fit your new teeth.
We will need to see you once more a few weeks later to ensure that everything is healing well, and that your new smile is just as you wanted it to be.
How is an implant fitted?
Assessment: Every treatment begins with an assessment from your local Thorpe Bay dentist who will be performing your implant treatment. They will discuss all the options with you, make an assessment of the best solution for you, and ensure you understand every step of your treatment. You will have an x-ray and, in some cases, a CT scan to help visualise your jaw, ensure your gums are healthy and that there is enough jaw bone to place the implant.
The treatment: This is when the implant is placed into your jaw. It’s a straightforward process which can be completed under local anaesthetic. If you are particularly nervous or have a dental phobia, your dentist will make sure you feel absolutely comfortable with the treatment, and can provide sedation if needed.
The implants will need three to six months to heal and integrate with your jaw bone to provide a solid support for the crown or bridge.
Depending on your treatment and your dentist’s diagnosis, a temporary crown can be fitted at the same time as your initial appointment. Same day teeth is a modern procedure which enables you to walk out of the clinic with brand new teeth in just one day. These will stay in place until the final restoration appointment.
Once your jaw has healed, your dentist will take an impression of your mouth. This enables a dental technician to build your bespoke crown or bridge, which will be colour matched to blend seamlessly with your other teeth.
Restoration: It may be necessary to have a separate appointment between six weeks and six months after your initial treatment, to allow the implant to fully integrate. This ensures that your jaw has completely healed before the crown or bridge is permanently fitted.
Your smile is now complete.
Once the implant post has integrated with the bone and surrounding soft tissue, its longevity will be down to the quality of at-home care and attendance at regular clinical reviews. Just as with natural teeth, poor care can lead to gum infection, bleeding and general discomfort. However, well-maintained implants can be expected to last many years and often a whole lifetime.
We believe in open, honest pricing at Stradbrook Dental & Implant Clinic. Take a look at our dental plans and fees.
Visit our FAQs page to find answers to common questions. If you can't find what you're looking for, don't hesitate to reach out to our friendly team.
If you're ready to book an appointment, get in touch today.
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