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Dental implants have revolutionized dentistry since their introduction as lost teeth can be
effectively replaced without the need for a denture or bridge.
Ferquently Asked Questions
Do they screw into the bone?
The implants are placed tightly inside a hole which is drilled into the bone. The bone then
grows closely around the implant and holds it in place. The implants are not actually 'screwed'
into the bone.
How long do I have to wait before the teeth are fitted?
This depends on which jaw that the implant was placed in together with the number of teeth that
it will replace. Generally the patient may have to wait upto
6 weeks before the final
crowns are placed but sometimes it is placed
immediately when we see that the quality of the bone and the strength
of the implant inside the bone is good.
I have full dentures and my lower one is loose, could I have
implants?
Implants may be used not only to replace a single tooth but also provide support for a denture
or bridge. Many people with lower dentures have problems eating or speaking as the denture
is loose and moves around. With age the ridge of bone is lost in the lower jaw and this problem
will only increase. The placement of one or two implants in the lower jaw will provide sufficient
support and stability for a denture, thus improving the life of the patient. Below we outline
several options for persons with no lower teeth.
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Six implants allow a lower denture to be made which is
stable and will not rock. |
Once in position, the
denture is screwed onto the implants so that it won't come out or lift
up. |
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A cheaper and simpler alternative is to place two implants
which are connected by a bar.
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The denture then clips
onto this bar and won't slide around. As the denture clips in, it can be
removed by the patient and cleaned. |
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