What is a Dental Implant?

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A dental Implant is a titanium, cylindrical, threaded fixture that is used to replace a missing root. The Implant is then used as the foundation for the new crown. Dental Implants can be used to replace a single tooth,multiple missing teeth or a full mouth with no teeth.

 

Titanium is a unique material in that new bone will grow onto the surface of the implant therefore “fusing” the implant to bone. This process is known as osseointegration and produces prosthetic teeth that are as strong if not stronger than your own natural teeth.

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What are the alternatives?

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Leaving a gap, having a bridge or a removable denture.

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Benefits over conventional dentistry

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Over a denture : Implants provide firm, fixed teeth that do not fall out or move when eating, similar to your own natural teeth.

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Over a bridge : Convential bridgework involves cutting down the adjacent teeth to be used as crowns. This destruction of a healthy tooth is unnecessary and will decrease the life span of these teeth. Implants therefore preserve the remaining dentition.

 

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Treatment Stages for a Dental Implant

• Initial consultation giving information and further reading literature

• Detailed planning appointment with surgeon and prosthodontist

• Written treatment plan and costs estimate

• Impressions for study models, diagnostic wax-up and surgical stent

• Implant placement

• Regular review appointments

• Exposure of implant (3-4 months lower jaw, 5-6 months upper jaw)

• Impressions approximately 2 weeks later

• Fitting of final crown

• Follow up and implant maintenance with a hygienist

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After Care

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Please see this page for information on the post-treatment care and follow-up offered:

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We have been replacing missing teeth in Twickenham and the surrounding areas including Richmond, Kingston, Hampton and St Margarets, for over 13 years.

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For further information please go to the following website:

www.badi.org.uk