Tag: dental implants

How Much Will Dental Implants Cost?

Tooth loss is among the most common dental problems worldwide. According to the Oral Health Foundation, every three in four Britishers have had at least one tooth extracted. Unfortunately, missing teeth can cause various complications if they are not replaced timely. Previously, dentists replaced missing teeth using removable dentures and teeth bridges. However, these prostheses had their drawbacks besides having a short lifespan. But things changed with the introduction of dental implants. Today, dental implants can be used for the long-term replacement of any number of missing teeth. 

However, when we talk about implants, the foremost concern of dental patients is their cost and how to find the implant surgeon in town. If you are also looking for an answer to this question, you are in luck; this blog will explain all you need to know about dental implants. So, read on to learn more about them. 

How To Find the Best Dental Implants In The UK?

Successful tooth replacement with dental implants requires visiting an experienced and qualified dentist. But finding the right implant dentist in the UK is easier said than done. But don’t worry; we have some tips for you that make your task easier:

  • Make a list of the dental implant practice in your area
  • Shortlist 5-7 of them based on the practices that offer all your required services in your area
  • Go online and search for the online reviews for these practices. This will help you shortlist 2-3 practices
  • Next, visit these practices and meet the dentist and their team. Ask for the dentist’s qualifications and experience in implant dentistry. You may also ask for the before-and-after photos of their previous implant dentistry patients.
  • Finally, you should go with the practice that you feel the most comfortable with

You can search the General Dental Council’s specialist register to find dental practices offering implant services in your area. 

What Should Full Mouth Dental Implants Cost In 2023?

The cost of full-mouth or all-on-4 implants depends on various factors. Among them, a crucial factor is a need for additional procedures, such as bone grafting or ridge augment, before implant placement. However, full-mouth replacement with dental implant-supported prostheses typically costs £4500 – £6000. This does not include the cost of additional procedures needed before the surgery. 

Is The Price Of Dental Implants Likely To Reduce In The Future?

As the competition between implant manufacturers is growing, companies are trying to stay on top by reducing their profit margins. This may help reduce implant costs. However, at the same time, global inflation and increase in healthcare treatment costs may further drive up the cost of implant therapy. So, we can expect the prices of implants to go up in the future. So, if you are considering getting implants, do it now before they get more expensive. 

How Can I Find Affordable Dental Implants?

Treatment with dental implants is generally costlier compared to other tooth replacement options. However, their high treatment cost is a small price, considering their lifelong durability, excellent function, and aesthetics. However, if you want to cut your costs further, you should consider going to a dental practice in your area that offers implant therapy through your insurance. If your insurance plan is not covered, consider going to a practice that offers a flexible treatment plan. 

Are Dental Implants Worth It?

Dental implants are the most reliable, long-lasting, and aesthetically pleasing tooth replacement option currently available. Furthermore, they completely restore one’s ability to speak and eat. Hence, you can enjoy all your favourite foods without any restrictions. So, if you are looking for a tooth replacement option that looks, functions, and feels like natural teeth, you should consider dental implants. 

Do Dental Implants Require Special Care?

Dental implants are anchored into the jawbone like natural teeth. So, their care requirements are the same as natural teeth. All you need is regular brushing and flossing to prevent plaque and tartar formation around the implants and prevent complications. More importantly, you should never miss an appointment with your implant dentist so that any underlying issue can be detected and treated timely. 

How Long Do Full Mouth Dental Implants Last?

Full-mouth dental implants can last a lifetime if they are looked after properly. This is because dental implants are made of highly robust and durable titanium alloys. So, you don’t have to worry about the service life of implant-supported full-mouth dentures. 

How Much Is A Dental Implant For One Tooth?

Dental implant cost varies according to the dentist’s location, experience, and the number of implants needed for tooth replacement. However, a single-tooth replacement with implants typically costs around £1500 – £2500, including the cost of the crown. 

Can You Pay Monthly For Dental Implants?

Some dental practices in the UK offer affordable payment solutions, whereby one pays on a monthly basis for their treatment. So, it is advisable to consult with your dentist if they allow you to pay for your treatment monthly before it is initiated. 

Can You Get Dental Implants If You Don’t Have Any Teeth?

No matter how many teeth you are missing, you are a candidate for getting implants. Even if you have no natural teeth, your dentist replaces them with only four implants. This type of prosthesis is called an all-on-4 complete fixed bridge. Your dentist will place 4 implants in each jaw, which will be used to support the entire fixed bridge.

If you want full-mouth implants in Hornchurch, your best option is Harrow Dental. We are the best implant dentistry practice in town, with many satisfied patients. So, are you ready to enjoy a beautiful smile with implants? Click here to find out more about all-on-4 implants.

Can Dentures Be Fitted To Receding Gums? And Other Tooth Replacement Questions Answered

Removable dentures are one of the most commonly used options for replacing missing natural teeth. If your dentist has recently suggested removable dentures for tooth replacement, you will surely have questions about this treatment option. In this regard, one of the most frequently asked questions about removable dentures is whether they can be used with receding gums. If you are also looking for an answer to this question, you have come to the right place. So, read on to find out the answer to this question so that you can make an informed decision about this tooth replacement option. 

Receding Gums: Causes And Treatment Options?

Gum recession is a pathological process in which the gums start to move away from their normal attachment position on the teeth. Gum recession can occur due to a variety of reasons. Some of these are given below:

 

  • Gum Disease – the harmful bacteria inside inflamed gums release toxins that irritate the gums. This results in the movement of the gums away from their normal position. 
  • Physical Irritation – physical factors such as using excessive force during brushing or too much use of toothpicks can also cause gum recession. 
  • Overhanging Restoration – if a filling overhangs and touches the gum tissues, it can cause irritation and recession of the gums. 
  • Trauma – an accidental injury to the gums can also cause their recession. 

 

Which Is Better, An Implant Or A Bridge, If You Have Poor Gums?

Dental professionals recommend against getting any type of tooth replacement while there is underlying gum inflammation. This is because dental bridges are dependent on the supporting healthy teeth for their support. If there is gum disease, the teeth may already be mobile resulting in the pre-mature dislodgment of the bridge. Similarly, dental implants rely on the health of the bone tissue for the support. Again, if there is gum disease, it may have already caused extensive bone tissue damage. Hence, dentists always treat gum disease before considering any type of tooth replacement. 

What Causes Receding Gums On One Tooth?

Typically, gum recession occurs on all the teeth. However, there are certain cases when it can also occur in isolated teeth. Some of the reasons for isolated gum recession are:

  • Trauma to the affected tooth 
  • Misaligned tooth which receives excessive force during brushing 
  • Using too much toothpick 

Regardless of the location of gum recession, it should never be taken lightly and immediate dental assistance shoul be sought. 

What’s The Best Solution For Teeth Gap And Receding Gums?

Teeth gaps and receding gums are two separate issues. Teeth gaps typically appear when there is excess space in the jaws than needed for accommodating all the teeth in alignment. Alternatively, if a tooth is lost prematurely, the neighbouring teeth move towards the vacant space, creating extra spacing between all the teeth. Regarding the solution of teeth gaps, dentists utilise various options. These are:

For receding gums, the following options are available:

  • Periodontal therapy, including scaling and root planning
  • Gum grafting 

Can Cosmetic Dentistry Fix Receding Gums?

Cosmetic dentistry can help in restoring the aesthetic flaws caused by gum recession. However, other procedures need to be performed to treat the underlying cause. For example, if gum recession is because of periodontal inflammation, your dentist will remove the plaque and tartar deposits through scaling and planning and then treat the cosmetic issue. In some cases, treatment of the underlying issues restores gum health and attachment. On the other hand, when there is severe gum recession, a gum grafting procedure is performed to correct the optimal length of the gums.

Can Fake Teeth Chew Just As Good As Real Teeth?

There is nothing as good as one’s natural teeth. However, this does not mean tooth replacement options do not restore one’s ability to chew food. Instead, it depends on the type of tooth replacement. For example, removable dentures, especially complete dentures, rely solely on the underlying bone and soft tissues for their support and retention. Hence, they do not effectively restore one’s ability to chew food. On the other hand, dental implants are inserted directly into the jawbone, like natural teeth. Hence, they optimally restore one’s ability to chew food efficiently. In fact, dental implants are the next best thing for your natural teeth. 

What Happens If Your Gums Recede Too Far?

The most significant complication of gum recession is the exposure of the tooth roots, which are more vulnerable to sensitivity and decay than the tooth crowns. So, if the gums recede too far, it can cause root sensitivity and decay. 

Will My Teeth Fall Out From Receding Gums?

Gum recession is an indication of underlying gum disease. In the advanced stages of gum disease, there is extensive bone loss, resulting in the teeth becoming loose in their sockets. If this condition is not corrected in a timely manner, the teeth may start falling off. 

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Having Dentures?

Like all tooth replacement options, removable dentures have their own merits and demerits. These are:

 

Pros of Dentures

 

      • Cost-effective 
      • Simple fabrication technique 
      • Repairable can be used to replace single, multiple, or all missing teeth 

Cons of Dentures

 

    • Service life is limited 
    • Can fracture easily if dropped 
    • Can get warped if exposed to sudden extreme temperature changes

Finding an excellent removable denture specialist in your area can be difficult. But, if you reside in Hornchurch, Harrow Dental Practice is the best place to visit. Whether you need removable dentures or teeth whitening for your stained teeth, we provide all the services under one roof. So, contact us today and request an appointment so that we can give you a healthy, lasting, and adorable smile. 

Dentures Vs Implants – Choosing The Best Tooth Replacement Option For You

Tooth loss is a global problem that affects people of ages and walks of life. It has been estimated that every British adult has at least 6 missing teeth in their mouths – and this number is increasing at an alarming rate. So, with the demand for tooth replacement options increasing in the UK, which option should one select? If you search the internet or ask a dentist, you will find that removable dentures and implants are among the most commonly used options for replacing missing teeth. 

But, the next question that may come to your mind would be, “ which is better: implants or dentures?” if you are looking for an answer to this question, you have come to the right place. This blog provides a comparative overview of removable dentures and implants so that you can make an informed decision about replacing your missing teeth. So, continue reading to find out more. 

What Are Dental Dentures?

A denture is a removable appliance used to replace one or more teeth. Removable dentures gain support from adjacent healthy teeth, underlying soft tissues, and jaw bones. A denture that replaces one or more teeth is called a partial denture. These dentures possess metallic extensions called clasps that encircle the supporting teeth and provide retention. On the other hand, dentures used to replace all missing teeth in a jaw are called complete dentures. These dentures rely solely on the underlying soft tissue and jawbone contour for their retention and support. 

What Is The Difference Between Dental Implants And Dentures?

As discussed earlier, a denture is a removable appliance that rests on the oral soft tissues and jawbone, gains support from the neighbouring teeth, and is used for tooth replacement. On the other hand, an implant is a screw-shaped fixture inserted directly into the jawbone like natural teeth, and it serves as a replacement root. Once the implant becomes fully anchored in the bone, a suitable prosthesis is attached to complete the artificial tooth structure. So, the main difference between a denture and an implant is that one is a removable prosthesis while the other remains fixed within the bone. 

Are Dentures Better Or Worse Than Implants?

Removable dentures are a time-tested and cost-effective option for replacing missing teeth. However, they also possess certain drawbacks compared to implants. For example, removable dentures do not restore sufficient chewing and speech efficiency compared to implants. Similarly, dentures have a limited lifespan and can break easily if dropped. Finally, materials leaching out of dentures may cause allergies or other adverse reactions. Hence, implant-supported teeth are better and longer-lasting than dentures. 

Why Would Someone Choose Dentures Over Bridges Or Implants?

When choosing between implants and dentures, dental implants are an obvious choice. However, there are two instances when one may have to go for dentures instead of implants. First, when one is not eligible to get implants, such as those with a history of cancer radiotherapy in the region or bisphosphonate use. The second case is when one cannot afford the higher cost of implant therapy. Other than that, dental implants are always the first choice whenever tooth replacement is considered. 

What’s Better, Dental Implant Or a Partial Denture?

If you are looking for a tooth replacement option for one or more missing natural teeth, dental implants are the best option. Why? Because they are durable, safe, and restore one’s ability to eat and speak without difficulty. In fact, dental implants can be regarded as the next best thing to one’s own teeth. So, when choosing between a partial denture or an implant-supported prosthesis, dental implants should always be your first choice. 

Are Dental Implants The Same As Bridges And Dentures?

No. Although the function of dental implants is the same as bridges and dentures – to replace missing teeth – implants work differently. Removable dentures rest on oral tissues and gain support from the adjacent teeth. Similarly, bridges are fixed prostheses that derive support from adjacent healthy teeth. On the other hand, dental implants are embedded into the jawbone like natural teeth. Hence, they offer the best aesthetics and function among all tooth replacement options. 

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Snap-On Dentures?

Snap-on dentures are also known as implant-supported dentures. Some of the advantages and disadvantages of these dentures are discussed below. 

Pros of Snap-on Dentures 

  • Excellent esthetics
  • Lifelong durability 
  • Optimal oral hygiene maintenance 
  • Optimal restoration of one’s ability to eat and speak 

Cons of Snap-on Dentures 

  • High treatment cost 
  • Extreme surgical skill and precision required for successful tooth replacement with snap-on dentures

Can You Get Implants After Having Dentures For Years?

Technically, it is possible to get implants after having dentures for many years. However, when dentures are worn long-term, they tend to exert pressure on the underlying jawbone and oral tissues, causing bone resorption. As a result, the bone becomes brittle and is insufficient to support the implants. In these cases, dentists have to restore optimal bone volume through bone grafting. So, it is advisable to consider dental implants for long-term tooth replacement. 

What Are Implant Retained Dentures?

An implant retained denture is one that is supported by dental implants. Conventionally, removable dentures are supported by the adjacent supporting teeth and the underlying jawbone and tissues. However, implant-retained dentures supported by one or more dental implants, depending on the number of missing teeth. 

Are you fed up with your existing dentures and would like to enjoy the comfort and convenience of dental implants? Head on to Harrow Dental Practice in Hornchurch. So, book an appointment today and walk away with a beautiful and lasting smile with implants. 

Are Teeth Implants Permanent?

Gone are the days when dentists only used removable dentures for replacing missing teeth. Today, much more durable and aesthetically pleasant options are available, such as dental implants.

An implant is a screw-shaped titanium post which serves as an artificial tooth root. Once it becomes fully anchored within the jawbone, the dentist then attaches a suitable prosthesis over it – depending on the number of missing teeth – to complete the artificial tooth. 

While dental implants have been popular worldwide as the most preferred tooth replacement option, many people are still unaware of how implants work or whether they are long-term tooth replacement option. If you are thinking of getting your missing teeth replaced with dental implants, this article will provide all the information you need to make an informed decision. 

Truth About Dental Implants

Dental implants are shaped just like a tooth root – and function like them too. Similarly, like the natural teeth, the implants are anchored within the bone. As a result, dental implants offer a solid foundation for the artificial teeth – the crowns, bridges or dentures attached to them. Since the dental implants remain fixed within the jawbone, they also restore one’s ability to eat and speak without difficulty. You can eat all your favourite foods – even the hard ones – without any problem. 

However, dental implants are indeed more expensive than other tooth replacement options. However, considering their numerous advantages, such as their safety, long life and aesthetics, their high cost is a minor drawback. 

How Long Do Dental Implants Last?

Dental implants are one of the most durable tooth replacement options currently available. The implants are made from high-quality titanium alloys, which makes them extremely resilient and durable. Research has shown that dental over 90% of dental implants last beyond 10 years. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, well care and looked after dental implants can even last for a lifetime. Similarly, the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons states an implant success rate of 95%

Can You Have Dental Implants With Receding Gums?

Like natural teeth, the presence of healthy gum tissues around an implant will significantly increase the chances of its success. However, this does not mean that gum recession individuals cannot get their teeth replaced with dental implants. 

During your initial appointment, your dentist will determine the underlying cause of gum recession. In the early stages, gum recession can be treated with professional cleaning. Your dentist may also perform a crown lengthening procedure. In this procedure, your dentist will detach the gums and replace them at a higher position where they cover the implant surface. In advanced cases where there is widespread gum recession, your dentist may need to perform gum grafting. According to the American Academy of Periodontology, gum graft surgery is a procedure in which your dentist will take soft tissue grafts from another body site to compensate for the lost gum tissue. 

What’s The Link Between Periodontal Disease An Implant Failure?

Dental implants look, function and feel just like natural teeth. While this is an upside, the downside of dental implants is that they can also get diseased like a real tooth. If regular oral hygiene maintenance is not ensured around an implant, or if there is insufficient gum tissue to cover the implant-restoration junction, plaque and tartar deposits begin to form around the implant. Over time, these bacteria release toxins and cause inflammation of the soft tissue around the implant. This condition is known as peri-implantitis, and it is one of the most common causes of implant failure. 

Will Getting Dentures Stop Gum Disease?

Gum disease is caused by two main factors; poor general oral health and harmful bacteria. Hence, gum disease management involves removing the plaque and tartar deposits from the teeth through professional cleaning – or other advanced periodontal procedures – if necessary. Unfortunately, getting dentures will not help with the cessation of gum disease. Instead, it may worsen the situation if oral hygiene maintenance is not ensured optimally. 

Will Tooth Extraction Cure Periodontal Disease?

Tooth loss is the leading cause of long term gum disease. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 10% of the world population have lost a tooth because of gum inflammation. As discussed earlier, the only treatment of periodontal disease is strict oral hygiene maintenance and removal of plaque and calculus deposits on the teeth with professional cleaning. Getting your teeth extracted will not help in treating gum disease. 

How Long Do Dental Implants Take To Heal?

Once your dentist places an implant inside the bone, he or she will place a healing collar over it. This is done to ensure the implant site’s uninterrupted healing- which generally takes anywhere between four to six months. Once the implant site has healed properly, and bone tissue has formed around the implant, only then will your dentist attach a prosthesis over it. 

How Long Does A Dental Implant Procedure Take?

The time needed for the placement of dental implants depends on various factors, such as the site and the number of implants to be placed. On average, the surgical procedure for the placement on an implant can take anywhere between one to two hours. The duration may be prolonged if your dentist needs to perform an additional procedure like bone graft. Don’t worry; this procedure won’t be painful as your dentist will perform it under the effect of local or general anaesthesia. 

Looking for top-quality, long-lasting dental implants in Hornchurch? Our implant dentist, Dr Saleha Aria and Prosthodontist, Dr Safa Somi at Harrow Dental Practice, can help. Whether you seek dental implants for tooth replacement or braces for missing teeth, Harrow Dental Practice offers all dental care services under one roof.

A beautiful smile with dental implants awaits you at Harrow Dental. Not sure about implants? Book a free consultation appointment today and get honest advice from our dentists. 

How to Get a Perfect Smile

Do you often stand in front of the mirror and wish there was something you could do to improve your smile? The British orthodontic society is reporting that the number of adults seeking orthodontic treatment in the UK has risen recently by about 75%.

A beautiful smile is an invaluable social asset. It not only makes you look younger but also boosts your self-esteem and makes you look more attractive. A survey conducted by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry revealed that a staggering 99.7% of the respondents believed that a beautiful smile is a priceless social asset. But while some are born with a Rockstar smile, others are not that lucky. But the good news is that no matter how flawed a smile is, you can still get a picture-perfect, naturally beautiful smile. How? Continue reading to find out.

How can I improve my smile?

Here are some tips that can help you in getting your dream smile:

Oral Hygiene Maintenance

A healthy smile is a beautiful smile. You cannot enjoy a charming and attractive smile without meticulous oral hygiene. Dentists worldwide recommend that you must brush your teeth twice a day and floss at least once a day for having those pearly white, perfect teeth! For best results, the British Dental Association recommends that you should use a soft toothbrush and a fluoride-containing toothpaste for either adults or children (be sure to purchase the correct one).

Regular Dental Check-ups

No matter how meticulous you are in brushing and flossing, your oral hygiene routine is incomplete without regular checkups. Your dentist can diagnose dental problems well before they are even visible to the naked eye, not only saving you from huge expenditures on treatment but also ensuring that you retain a beautiful smile throughout life.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Whether it is about restoring chipped or crooked teeth, restoring the balance between your upper lips and the size of your teeth, teeth whitening, or replacing missing natural teeth, cosmetic dentistry has the solution to all your aesthetic problems.

  • Veneers – a veneer is a thin shell of porcelain that is bonded the front teeth surfaces to restore tooth shape, function and aesthetics. Dental veneers are useful for the correction of the following cosmetic problems:
    • Chipped or fractured teeth.
    • Teeth with permanent stains
    • Cosmetic correction of excessive teeth gaps
    • Correction of mild tooth misalignment
  • Crowns – porcelain crowns are often referred to as a ‘cap’- they are shaped structures that are placed over the entire visible structure of a tooth. They are not only used for restoring tooth aesthetics but are also used reinforcing weakened teeth, owing to their excellent strength and durability. You can benefit from porcelain crowns in the following situations:
    • Grossly damaged teeth that cannot be restored with fillings
    • To mask permanent teeth stains
    • To restore the structure of chipped or fractured teeth
    • If you are not satisfied with the shape or size of your teeth, your cosmetic dentist will give you crowns to cosmetically reshape them and restore your smile.
    • To reinforce weakened teeth
    • To reinforce teeth that become brittle following a root canal procedure.
  • Dental Implants – Dental implants are by far the most aesthetically pleasing, functionally efficient and durable option for replacing missing natural teeth. An implant is a screw-shaped metallic fixture that is inserted into the jawbone, and it serves as the replacement root. Once the implant has become completely embedded within the bone, a suitable prosthesis such as a porcelain crown, bridge or a removable denture is then placed over it to restore the artificial tooth. Dental implants look, feel, and function just like natural teeth. If you shy away for smiling in public because of your missing teeth, then dental implants may be the best option for restoring your facial aesthetics and smile.

Perfect teeth alignment

Do you want to get rid of your misaligned and crooked teeth, but the thought of wearing those ugly metal braces is a deal-breaker for you? Don’t worry; you can still get a set of perfectly aligned teeth with Invisalign removable aligners. Invisalign is an orthodontic system based on the use of removable aligners. The aligners are designed from a special transparent acrylic material that makes them virtually invisible. Also, the Invisalign aligners are more comfortable and convenient in comparison to the conventional metal braces as they allow you to eat all your favorite foods and maintain optimal oral hygiene.

A beautiful smile not only makes you look gorgeous, but it can also bring joy and smiles to so many other faces! So, what’s stopping you? Book an appointment your cosmetic dentist today and impress your loved ones with your brand-new smile.

How much does a perfect smile cost?

The cost will always vary depending on exactly what treatment is required, So it’s very difficult to say exactly. Here are a few examples:

  • Teeth whitening – to get perfect white teeth £395
  • Composite bonding – to restore broken down teeth or reshaped teeth, from £250
  • Orthodontic treatment with 6 month smiles – from £3600

Many dental practices offer interest-free finance making treatments affordable and a monthly basis.