Dental implants FAQ

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are a reconstructive dental treatment to replace the natural tooth root. Dental implants are attached to dental crowns to provide a replacement for missing teeth.

What is the procedure for dental implants?

Dental implants require two dental appointments. The dentist will first prepare the mouth for the implant removing any tooth decay and diseased gum tissue. The implants are then inserted into or onto the jawbone depending on the type of implant used. An impression is then taken of the implant and the tooth mould is sent to a dental laboratory where the dental crowns are made. The custom-made dental crowns are then attached to the tooth implant to act as the replica tooth. The procedure of dental implants can take 3-6 months to complete as the dentists must wait for the implant to attach to fuse to the jaw before attaching the dental crowns.

How long does dental implant treatment take?

The procedure for fitting dental implants can be completed in two or three dental appointments. Patients have to wait for the dental implant to heal into the jawbone before dental crowns can be attached. This osseointegration process can take between 3- months.

Are dental implants painful?

Dental implants are not a painful procedure and patients mouths wil be anaesthetised before treatment begins to implant the replacement tooth root. There may be some swelling to the gum after treatment and some patients experience sensitivity to hot and cold before the attachment of the permanent dental crowns.

What is the success rate of dental implants?

Dental implants provide a permanent replacement for missing teeth in 90% of patients. In rare cases, the implantation process of dental implants will fail. This is normally caused by problems during the osseointegration faze of treatment that prevents the implant from attaching to the jawbone correctly. Smokers have a higher risk of dental implant failure. Dental implants using porcelain dental crowns are more successful when implanted into the lower jaw.

What are the alternatives to dental implants?

A dental implant is an artificial replacement for a missing tooth root. Dental implants are the only permanent replacement for teeth that provides the same security eating and chewing as natural teeth. Other artificial teeth options include removable dentures, dental bridges and mini-dental implants to secure dentures.

How much do dental implants cost?

Dental implants may sound an expensive method of tooth replacement, however due to the strength of implants and the advanced dental techniques used to place the implants in the jawbone, dental implants are unlikely to need replacing. Costs of dental implants in the US or UK can rise to $3000USD per implant with full mouth restoration costing over $40,000USD. Dental implants provide a permanent replacement to missing teeth for between $900-1200 USD if patients have treatment in Mexico.