The cost of treatment varies depending on the complexity of the treatment and on the materials required. A consultation with our implant dentist is often the best way to find out how much treatment would cost. This is determined by the number of implants indicated, the need for additional procedures to regenerate bone, and the type of replacement structure.
Dental implants are placed under local anaesthetic, so the procedure is not painful. Just like with any other dental procedure, local anaesthetic takes away any painful sensation for several hours so that you can comfortably undergo the procedure. We can also undertake the procedure with local anaesthetic and sedation.
It is normal to experience some discomfort for up to 10 days following the implant placement procedure. After 2 weeks we will arrange a review appointment so that we can check on the healing, make adjustments and if needed to remove your stitches.
Once your bone has grown on to the implant (a process called osseointegration) the risk of complications when attaching teeth to the implants (referred to as ‘loading’) decreases. This healing period typically takes 2 to 3 months.
Following the healing period, we will bring you in to recheck the success of your implant surgery. Implant integration success rates in healthy non-smoking patients is more than 95% and it is at this stage that we are able to confirm whether your implants have integrated successfully.
Dental implants can last forever but this is not always the case. It is best to make your decision on the assumption that you will need some form of maintenance of your implant and restoration in your lifetime – the younger you are, the more likely this will be. Complications related to dental implants can be categorised as short
A dental implant is effectively a titanium screw which is placed directly into your jawbone, replacing the missing root. Your body then fuses to the titanium over the subsequent months anchoring it in place. A false tooth, bridge or denture is then fitted to the top of the implant.
Dental implants are inserted into the jawbone under local anaesthetic, so the procedure is not painful.
Just like with any other dental procedure, local anaesthetic takes away any painful sensation for a number of hours so that you can comfortably undergo the procedure without the risks that are carried by the use of general anaesthetics (where you are not conscious).
Following the procedure, it is normal to experience some discomfort for 2-3 days after which symptoms should begin to resolve. In this time, you should carefully follow postoperative instructions to ensure quick and uneventful healing.
Over-the-counter painkillers (analgesics) are often recommended and are sufficient to get you through this period comfortably. After a few days, and from thereon in, you will feel no sensation from your implant.
It is possible to use dental implants (the screw that remains inside the jawbone) to support many types of restorations in the mouth.
An implant could support a single crown or a small number of teeth (called a bridge). Multiple implants could work together to support many teeth that are joined together. These are restorations that remain fixed inside the mouth and are cleaned like your natural teeth.
Dental implants can also be used to support removable teeth (known as dentures) which must be taken in and out and cleaned at home daily. A removable denture attached to implants provides function that is far superior to a conventional denture.
Because the type, size and materials used for the restorations listed above can vary, the price that is quoted for the implant often does not include a crown unless specified.