260 East End Rd, East Finchley N2 8AU

Dental Implants

A Dental Implant is an artificial tooth consisting of a root and natural looking that is placed directly into the jaw to replace a missing tooth or teeth

What are Dental Implants?

A Dental Implant is an artificial tooth consisting of a root and natural looking crown that is placed directly into the jaw to replace a missing tooth or teeth.

The root is made of titanium or a titanium alloy which enables them to integrate with the surrounding bone with relative ease. The replacement tooth is made of porcelain, or special plastic (sometimes on a metal base) and it is fitted on top of the titanium root.

For appropriate cases we offer our patients flapless placement of their Dental implants. This means no incision or suture and no post-operative swelling, even in full arch cases.

The Dental Implant procedure is most commonly performed under local anaesthetic. The course of treatment from the initial placement of the implants to the time of placing the first teeth can vary from six weeks to six months depending on the complexity of the case. Oral hygiene for implants is similar to cleaning your natural teeth.

Benefits of a Dental implant (Summary)

Dental Implants for missing back-teeth

Why Have Dental implant?

Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth and can be more reliable than dentures. Whilst dentures need regular upkeep, implants can be treated like natural teeth once they are in place. They can even hold up better against tooth decay, so long as the patient adheres to good oral hygiene as often as possible.

More Benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants can behave and look like a natural tooth whereas dentures and removal bridges can often become loose and unstable. Implants offer the same force for biting as bridges that are fixed in place, yet implants will last a lifetime. Other benefits include:

  • Implants prevent bone loss – placing a dental implant in the jaw bone stimulates new bone growth (osseointegration) in the missing site.
  • They support facial structure – bone loss can age the appearance around the mouth, which impacts the whole face. Implants can keep the jaw strong.
  • The treatment is cost effective – the lifelong cost of implants is money well-worth spent as other restoration tools may need to be replaced regularly, which can be costly.
  • Dental implants won’t limit what you eat – they are stable and strong, which means that most people are able to eat and drink as normal. Dentures don’t tend to stay in place and it is harder to eat food that is tough, such as steak.
  • They are easy to care for – dental implants require the same care as a natural tooth, such as brushing and flossing at least twice a day and regular check-ups at the dentist.

Dental Implants Placed Without Opening the Gum (flapless) Surgery

Which Results in Quicker Treatment Times and is More Comfortable for the Patient

What are the Cons of Having Dental implants?

Having implants fitted does carry a few risks as it is actual surgery, which involves implanting the titanium rod into the bone of the jaw. 

  • As this is a surgical procedure, most people will experience varying degrees of discomfort or pain. This will pass within a few days.
  • There may be bruising and minor swelling shortly after the procedure.
  • The crown (the false tooth placed on top) will need to be replaced in 10-15 years.
  • There is also a risk of peri-implantitis if the patient does not follow good oral hygiene.
  • Smokers and patients with high cholesterol are at higher risk of contracting peri-implantitis.

Stages of Dental Implant Treatment

  1. Diagnosis and treatment planning – an initial assessment, this usually includes x-rays, OPG or CT Scan. Sometimes you may need a bone graft or a procedure called a sinus-lift if the implant needs additional support.
  2. Implant placement – followed by six weeks to six months of healing. Often the implants are hidden below the gum and do not detract from the aesthetics. The implants can be restored with temporary crowns during this phase to improve the appearance.
  3. Several visits may be needed for adjustments and fine tuning.
  4. Taking an impression of the new root and its relationship to other teeth in mouth.
  5. The implants can then be finished after healing is complete – with the permanent teeth being placed.
  6. Regular exams and hygiene appointments will ensure long term success.
  7. Implants can last a lifetime with proper home care and routine dental inspections. Unlike dentures, implants are permanently fixed and cannot be removed once placed. (Unless intended by the dentist)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is fitting a Dental Implant comfortable?

As with all dental care, modern techniques are quite comfortable. The initial part of fitting an implant requires surgery to insert the root. This is usually performed with a local anesthetic but you may also have sedation if preferred. It is not uncommon to feel some soreness or swelling following the procedure. For most people this is very minor and can be controlled by taking over-the counter analgesics.

How can Dental Implants improve dentures?

Full dentures can be anchored with just a few implants. You will be able to chew more effectively and can avoid the necessity of covering the palate with a plate. This improves the enjoyment and taste of food. The dentures are still removable but they are held by a bar or magnets.

Can my Dental Implants be affected by gum disease?

Yes, the gum surrounding the implant is the same as that around your original teeth, so gum disease could occur if your oral hygiene is lacking. You need to maintain good brushing, flossing and inter dental cleaning.
The treatment may not be appropriate for every patient and it is conditional on the satisfactory assessment being carried out. Dentist must assess the patient, obtain appropriate consent, obtain a medical history and explain all the options before carrying out any work.

How much do Dental Implants cost?

Typically, the cost of a dental implant starts from £1500. To see if you are suitable for dental implant phone the reception on 020 8365 2365 to book an appointment.

X-mas & New Year opening Times

Mon25.12.2023 CLOSED
Tues 26.12.2023 CLOSED
Weds 27.12.2023 open from 9am-2pm
Thurs 28.12.2023 open from 9am-2pm
Fri29.12.2023 open from 9am-2pm
Sat 30.12.2023 open from 9am-3pm
Mon 01.01.2024 CLOSED
Tues 02.01.2023 open from 9am-6pm

Happy Christmas & New Year from Nova Dental Care