What are dental implants and why may I choose to have dental implants in Herefordshire?
Dental implants are essentially small titanium screws that are implanted into the jawbone in order to replicate a natural tooth root. Dental implants are tiny screws (typically less than one centimetre long) that aim to act in the same way as a root in stimulating the jawbone whilst supporting a patient’s prosthetic teeth. Essentially, although the attachments to the dental implant can differ, they all consist of the same basic three parts. The base of the implant (titanium screw), the connector (also commonly referred to as the abutment) and the porcelain crown (or maybe a all-on-four, or bridge for example). Porcelain crowns are suitable for individuals who have lost one single tooth in the mouth. Bridges, all-on-fours, and other implants are suitable for patients who have lost multiple or even whole rows of teeth within the mouth. Individuals may lose teeth for several reasons, some of which can be health concerns.
Why do people lose teeth?
Health concerns such as gum disease may lead to individuals losing one or even several teeth within the mouth. Gum disease consists of several symptoms such as bleeding gums and sensitivity. Another health concern that may cause loss of teeth is a cavity left untreated. Cavities are essentially holes within the teeth that should be filled with a filling (whether this be a traditional metal filling, or a composite white filling). When these cavities are left untreated this can be dangerous, and allows the problem to escalate and the dental situation will therefore get worse. Bacteria spreading can cause the tooth to decay and eventually fall out. Teeth can also fall out through incidents, and non-health related factors. Falling off a bike, or having another type of impact may knock out one or even several teeth within the mouth.
Are there different types of dental implants?
At our surgery Warrendale Dental Care in Herefordshire, we are unique in the way that we offer a wide array of dental implant options. Single dental implants are used for individuals who have lost just one tooth. Single dental implants use porcelain crowns, which are custom made and matched to the shade of your surrounding natural teeth. The cost of a single dental implant varies massively between each individual dental clinic. At our surgery we do have finance options available.
Multiple dental implants consist of multiple porcelain crowns. If you are an individual who has had dentures in the past you may wish for a more sturdy and stable alternative, which is where multiple dental implants are perfect. Full arch dental implants can be used for individuals who have lost a whole row of teeth within the mouth.
How do I maintain dental implants?
In order to correctly maintain your dental implants it is important to visit the dentist regularly in order to track progress, and ensure your dental implants are healing correctly. Dental implants can be cleaned in the same way as normal teeth, so as well as feeling and looking like natural teeth, this is another huge advantage for the majority of patients who choose to undergo the process of dental implants.