Our Preston dentists team at Chic Dental, with over 15 years of experience, strives to create a welcoming and friendly atmosphere for everyone. We guide you through every step, ensuring you’re informed and comfortable with the process. Furthermore, we provide sleep dentistry to cater to anxious patients’ needs, including general anaesthesia.

By opting for dental implants, you will gain the ability to:

  • Restore the natural appearance of teeth
  • Improve speech and chewing ability
  • Prevent jaw bone deterioration
  • Protect surrounding healthy teeth
  • Provide a long-lasting and durable solution without the hassle of dentures
  • Boost your confidence by offering a complete smile

FAQS

Dental Implant Consultation

The process of getting a dental implant begins with a thorough consultation. This involves assessing the patient's oral health, understanding the reasons for missing teeth, and discussing the potential of implant dentistry as a suitable solution. The dental professional will also take necessary X-rays or scans to gauge the bone density and to determine the best position for the implant.

Preparation for the Dental Implant Treatment

Before delving into the implant procedure, the dentist ensures the patient's mouth is ready to receive the implant. This might involve treatments to address any oral health concerns or, in some cases, bone grafting if there isn't sufficient bone to support the implant. A custom-made dental implant tailored to fit seamlessly alongside adjacent teeth is then prepared for the patient.

The Dental Implant Procedure

  1. Initial Incision and Bone Exposure: The dentist starts by making an incision into the gum where the missing tooth is, to expose the bone.
  2. Drilling and Implant Placement: A small hole is then precisely drilled into the bone, taking care not to damage any crucial structures. The dental implant post, usually made of titanium due to its biocompatible properties, is then carefully placed into this hole.
  3. Closing the Surgical Site: After placing the post, the gum is stitched back to let the area heal. It's essential to ensure that the implant post integrates securely with the bone.

Osseointegration: The Fusion Phase

This phase is the true magic of implant dentistry. Osseointegration is the process where the jawbone naturally fuses with the dental implant post, offering a sturdy foundation for the replacement tooth. This phase can take several weeks to months, depending on individual healing rates and the quality of the bone.

Dental Implant Restoration

Once the osseointegration process is successfully completed, the patient returns for the dental implant restoration phase. Here:

  1. Abutment Placement: An abutment, which is a small connector, is fixed atop the dental implant post. This acts as a holder for the replacement tooth.
  2. Taking Impressions: Impressions of the mouth are taken to ensure the final tooth will align perfectly with the adjacent teeth and provide optimal function.
  3. Placement of the Replacement Tooth: Based on the impressions, a custom-made replacement tooth is crafted. This tooth, which could be a crown, bridge, or denture, is then attached to the abutment, completing the dental implant restoration.

Daily Oral Hygiene Practises

Dental implants might be resistant to cavities, but the gums and surrounding tissues aren't immune to bacteria and potential infections. As with natural teeth, it's paramount to maintain regular cleaning routines, including:

  • Brushing: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean around both the dental implant and the remaining teeth at least twice a day.
  • Flossing: Carefully floss around the dental implant, making sure to remove any food particles that may get trapped and lead to gum disease.

Regular Dental Check-ups

Just like you would for your natural teeth, ensure you're visiting your dentist at least twice a year. Regular professional cleanings are crucial to:

  • Promptly detect and treat any initial indications of gum disease to maintain optimal oral health.
  • Confirm the dental implant remains securely anchored and that no adjustments are required.

Protection from Potential Harm

  • Avoid Hard Foods: Biting down on hard items, such as ice or hard candies, can potentially damage the crown of the dental implant.
  • Mouth Guards: For individuals involved in contact sports or with a history of teeth grinding, wearing a mouth guard is essential to safeguard both the implant and the remaining teeth.

Guarding Against Gum Disease

Gum disease poses a risk not just to natural teeth but also to dental implants. Its symptoms include redness, swelling, and gums that bleed easily. To prevent gum disease:

  • Regular Cleanings: As mentioned, consistent oral hygiene practices will substantially reduce the risk of gum disease.
  • Quit Smoking: Smoking is a known risk factor for gum disease and can also hinder the healing process of dental implants.
  • Healthy Diet: A diet abundant in vitamins and minerals enhances your immune system and lowers the risk of gum disease.

Addressing Dental Implant Concerns

If you experience any discomfort, swelling, or other unexpected changes around the dental implant site, it's vital to seek dental advice immediately. Early detection and intervention can often resolve minor issues before they become significant concerns.

Patients considering dental implants worry about potential discomfort. It's important to note that during the actual procedure, local anaesthesia is used, so you should not feel any pain. In Chic Dental, we also offer general anaesthesia, if requested.

Post-procedure, like any surgery, some discomfort can be expected. However, most patients report that any discomfort can be managed effectively with over-the-counter pain relief medication. Initial tenderness or swelling usually subsides within a few days.

 If you're particularly anxious about pain, speak with your dentist. They can discuss various options for pain management and sedation during your procedure to ensure you're comfortable. Remember, every patient is different, and individual experiences can vary. 

The long-term benefits of a secure, stable and natural-looking replacement for your missing tooth often outweigh the temporary inconvenience.

Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.