Dental implants: common questions about treatment

Dental implants: common questions about treatment

28-06-2016

Dental implants are an increasingly popular way for a dentist to replace lost teeth, and at Ralston Dental and Cosmetic Clinic in Leicester we don’t find it difficult to understand why.

By using dental implants, your dentist has a permanent way to restore not just natural-looking teeth, but also full functionality to your jaw, meaning you can enjoy eating what you like, can speak, smile, even sing with confidence, and with no fear that your false teeth will fall out.

At our Leicester dental clinic we like to view dental implants as an investment in your future as well as in your smile. Of course, choosing to have oral surgery is a major life decision, and you are bound to have some questions. Below are some common questions and answers about implant treatment.

If you can’t find what you need to know here, please get in touch with Karen, the Patient Coordinator here at our Leicester clinic. She will be more than happy to help you.

How do dental implants work?

Dental implants replace the roots of missing teeth. They are placed directly into carefully pre-planned sockets in your jaw bone during a small operation here at our Leicester dental practice. Once in place, implants heal and integrate with your bone, serving the dual purpose of holding new teeth in position and actively preventing bone loss.

I need an operation? Will it hurt?

Not at all. Many people only need local anaesthetic for implant placement. We use The Wand pain-free injection system to deliver the anaesthetic, so you should experience no pain during the procedure. We can also treat you under sedation if you prefer. Post-operative discomfort is usually mild, and manageable with over-the-counter painkillers.

Can I have my new teeth immediately?

After placement, your dental implants will mesh with your jaw bone in a process called osseointegration. This takes a few months to complete, during which time your dentist may fit temporary teeth. Your permanent new teeth will be attached after integration is complete.

What kind of teeth will I have?

Either a bridge, crown, or denture, depending on your clinical need.