Dental Implants: Which Option Is Right for You?

If you’ve considered dental implants, you’re not the only one. It’s estimated that over 3 million people in the UK have dental implants fitted, and for good reason – dental implants can have several benefits designed to give you a healthier, more natural smile.

If you’ve been wondering how dental implants may benefit you, this blog will take a closer look at what dental implants are, their benefits, costs, and what implant options are available.

So, let’s start with the basics!

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants, quite simply, are permanent replacements for missing teeth and, depending on your needs, can replace single missing teeth, multiple spaces and an entire smile – planned well, they are designed to be long lasting, with the correct care, of course. Dental implants have several features that make them an excellent choice for maintaining your smile and improving your confidence, including:

A natural look and feel – Designed to mimic a real tooth, those with dental implants will not only be able to enjoy a confident smile but will notice minimal difference when eating and chewing.

Improved durability and maintenance – Intended to be long-lasting, dental implants can be easily cleaned and maintained in the same way as a real tooth would.

Improved bone health – While fitting dental implants requires a certain level of bone density, once integrated, dental implants can help maintain the bone density within the jaw.

Cost of Dental Implants

The cost of dental implants will depend greatly on your personal circumstance and primarily on the number of implants required and the restorative work thereafter. After a period of healing, implants can be restored with a single crown, a bridge or a denture, causing costs to vary. This is best discussed with your dentist.

Additional fees may be incurred for additional treatments required to prepare the mouth for the implant procedure. However, your dentist can discuss and plan with you the most cost-effective solution that suits your needs.

How does it work?

First, following a 3D scan and extensive planning, a titanium implant is placed within the jawbone. The dentist will likely introduce a temporary denture to fill the gap while the implant heals. In some circumstances, a temporary restoration can be attached to the implant. During healing, the implant fuses (osseointegrates) to your bone. Once healed, a permanent crown, bridge or denture, shade matched to your teeth, can be provided. Again, depending on your circumstances, this usually takes between 3 to 6 months.

Single-tooth Replacement

The simplest dental implant treatment, single tooth replacement is not only straightforward from a clinical standpoint but also the least likely to cause discomfort. As outlined in the ‘How does it work?’ segment, single implants are designed to fit seamlessly into your smile in shape and shade, and function similar to any other tooth.

Replacing Multiple Teeth

While one might expect that multiple implants require the same process as single implants, this is not always the case. For example, if multiple teeth in a row require replacement, a dentist will use the minimum number of dental implants to minimise discomfort and costs whilst maintaining structural integrity. This can be achieved by fitting two implants at either end of the affected area and restoring the area with a dental bridge.

Full-arch Implants and Implant-retained Dentures

Full-arch implant-retained bridgework can be an effective solution with minimal discomfort for those who require considerably more implants due to multiple extractions or who are currently wearing dentures. Using as few as four dental implants per jaw, full-arch implants and bridgework can markedly improve chewing and speaking, much more so than what conventional dentures can provide.

However, should you wish to retain your dentures but with greater stability and maintain facial structure, a cost-effective and secure option – implant-retained dentures – can be provided with titanium fittings with as few as two implants. These are removable and can be clipped on and off for cleaning, removing the need for using adhesive.

CHROME GuidedSMILE

Finally, patients seeking full-arch coverage can opt for CHROME GuidedSMILE. A guided surgery solution that uses 3D imagery to create an entirely bespoke treatment plan, CHROME GuidedSMILE finds the optimum location, angle and depth to make the most comfortable and aesthetically pleasing full-arch fit. Treatment can also be completed in as little as 2-3 hours, making it the most time-efficient option for those looking for upper or lower or even upper and lower treatment.

We hope this has provided you with the knowledge to help you find your perfect smile. If you’d like more information or to book a consultation, our implant practices will be happy to provide everything you need on your treatment journey.  Complete this enquiry form, and we’ll be in touch.