Dental Implants

Losing teeth needn't be embarrassing, inconvenient nor destructive anymore.

Whilst dentists try our best to save teeth, there are times when we simply cannot do any more, and the tooth has to be extracted and replaced.

One way of replacing missing teeth is with removable dentures. Whist this is a simple option, it means that the false teeth have to be removed every night before bed; this can be quite inconvienent and embarrassing. Dentures also cover a part of the gums, and interfere with taste, speech and gum health.

Those who prefer a more convenient option may choose to have a bridge cemented in place. bridges are great when the situation allows; there must be strong healthy teeth on either side of the empty space which can be ground down to make space for the bridge-ends. Sometimes, a prior root-canal is needed for these teeth.

Dental implants have come to the fore as the replacement of choice, as they do not require damaging of adjacent teeth, bear the chewing forces on their own, and are most natural-looking as they help prevent shrinkage of the jawbone. In some situations, implants are cheaper than bridges! Placing the implant anchor is a very simple surgical procedure that is less traumatic than an extraction.

Implants offer convenience, confidence and strength, as well as preservation of adjacent teeth.

Not everyone is suited for implants; smokers, diabetics, and people for whom the bone has shrunk too much are not good candidates to receive implants. careful pre-planning and regular monitoring (during your routine dental checkups) is important to ensure that the implant can continue to serve you for many years to come.