Dental Implants Surrey
Dental implants are a life-changing dental procedure that can return strength, structure and function to your mouth. In Surrey, Dr Riten Patel is a highly experienced implantologist offering dental implants as a permanent solution for your missing teeth.
What Are Dental Implants?
The dental implants process is where a strong post made of titanium is fitted into your jawbone, allowing a replacement porcelain tooth to be added. An implant is essentially a substitute for a natural root and commonly screw or cylinder-shaped. In cases where several teeth need to be replaced, a dental implant bridge can be used to treat all missing teeth at once.
When Are Implants Used?
Dental implants may be used when:
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A patient has a single tooth missing at the front or back of the mouth.
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Dentures need stabilising. When dentures are attached to implants it can greatly improve the overall comfort for the patient.
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Two or more teeth need to be replaced with an implant bridge.
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A patient doesn’t want to wear dentures anymore.
Advantages of Dental Implants
There are many benefits to choosing dental implants:
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Improved Function of the Mouth
Dental implants essentially function and are secured like normal teeth, so unlike dentures and other alternatives that can move around the mouth, dental implants allow you to eat and speak with more confidence. -
Durable
High quality, high grade materials are used in all stages of the process, from the titanium post through to the tough material to make your replacement crown. If taken care of, a dental implant can last a lifetime and the related bridgework and crowns will last an average of 10-15 years. -
Stronger Jaw
The titanium post that forms the main structure of your implant is designed to attach to your jawbone and foster bone growth around it, which can improve the shape and health of your face overall. -
Comfortable
Dental implants are meant to replace a natural tooth, root and all, so once your treatment ends they should feel as comfortable and natural as a real tooth. -
Natural Look
Dental implants are made to blend in with the rest of your smile, giving a natural, consistent appearance. So, no one ever needs to know you’ve had dental implants installed! -
Easy Care
Designed to be easy to care for, dental implants require very little maintenance outside of how you’d usually look after your teeth. Brushing twice a day with a low-abrasive toothpaste and regularly flossing will ensure your implants stay in good condition.
The Procedure
Dental implant surgery is usually performed in stages. In some cases when the tooth is damaged but still in place, the dentist will need to remove it at a separate stage before the implantation process.
To begin, the gum is opened up to expose the bone. Then, each dental implant is carefully placed into a socket drilled at the precise location of the intended tooth. The gum tissue is then closed around the implantation site. Often the dental implant can be placed at the same time as removal of the tooth, all on the same day.
If a dental implant has a screw-thread on its outer surface it can be screwed into position and if it does not, it is usually tapped into place.
The main aim during installation of any dental implant is to achieve immediate close contact with the surrounding bone. This creates an initial stability, which over time is steadily enhanced by further growth of bone into microscopic grooves on the implant surface.
In order to support replacement teeth, dental implants normally have some form of internal screw thread or post space that allows a variety of components to be fitted.
Once fitted, these components provide the foundation for long-term support of crowns, bridges or dentures.
Looking After Dental Implants
Once you’ve got a beautiful smile to be proud of, it’s important that you look after it. Taking care of dental implants couldn’t be simpler.
Practising good oral hygiene is key. Specially designed brushes can help you clean the hard to reach areas, ensuring you’re thoroughly cleaning your dental implants. Interdental brushes are best for keeping your teeth clean between meals.
It’s also important that you make regular trips to the dentist. Routine check-ups will ensure your dental implants are functioning as they should. If there are any issues, then they’ll be treated straight away.
Why Choose Mulberry Dental for Dental Implants in Surrey?
What sets Mulberry Dental apart from other dental clinics in Surrey is the experience and skill of resident implant expert, Dr Riten Patel. A world-class dentist with expertise in implantology, he is highly skilled in the use of dental implants to restore smiles and change lives.
For more examples, check out our smile gallery to see just a few of the stories of lives changed using dental implants.
If you are considering improving your smile and think that you could benefit from dental implant surgery, contact us today to book your free smile consultation with Dr Riten Patel at Mulberry Dental in Surrey.
FAQ’s
Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
To get dental implants, sufficient bone structure needs to be present. To check this, you’ll undergo an x-ray to determine your bone health. The evaluation for eligibility will take place after your first consultation for dental implants.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of dental implants in Surrey varies from patient to patient because of the number of factors involved. For example, some patients may need bone grafting to build up the bone of the jaw to prepare for implantation, but this won’t be necessary for all patients.
How long do dental implants last for?
When looked after well, dental implants can last for up to 10-15 years. To keep them in good condition, it’s advised that you regularly visit the dentist.
What will my mouth feel like after surgery?
Slight discomfort is to be expected in the days following your dental implant surgery. You may experience some swelling of the gums and pain at the implant site. Minor bleeding may also occur. This is easily treated with painkillers or antibiotics. It’s likely you’ll need to eat soft foods until the site fully heals.
How long does it take to fully heal?
Typically, dental implants take about 3 weeks to fuse with the jawbone. However, you’ll be unaware of this happening. After 3 months your new implant will be fully integrated.
Is the procedure painful?
Local anaesthetics are used to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. Because of this, the surgery is performed almost painlessly. Many patients are pleasantly surprised when they experience little to no discomfort during the operation.