Tag: tooth implants

Choosing Dentures Or Dental Implants: What’s The Best Option?

If you have lost one or more natural teeth, you might be wondering which option is best for replacing them. A little research will reveal that the two most common tooth replacement options are dentures and dental implants. But which is the best option for me, you may wonder! We understand that many patients find it challenging to decide between these tooth replacement options. That is why we will discuss both options in this blog in detail, so that you can make an informed decision. 

So, read this blog till the end to learn everything you need to know about dentures and dental implants, and which option to choose. 

What Is The Difference Between Dentures And Dental Implants?

Dental implants and dentures are used to replace missing teeth. However, they differ significantly in the way they are fabricated and their mode of tooth replacement. According to the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, an implant is a screw-shaped titanium post. Dental implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace missing teeth. 

According to the NHS, dentures rest on the gums and replace missing teeth by gaining support from the neighbouring teeth and the underlying jawbone. So, implants are fixed appliances while dentures are removable ones. 

What Are Dentures And Implants Made Of?

Dental implants are made of high-quality titanium. This makes them extremely durable and biocompatible. On the other hand, dentures are mainly made of acrylic resins. Sometimes, dentists may also use other materials for making denture bases. These include metal alloys and nylon. Your dentist will suggest a material that is the most suitable for your dentures after a detailed clinical examination and treatment planning.  

What’s The Difference Between The Process Of Dentures And Implants?

Let’s discuss the process of dental implants and dentures in detail. 

  • The Procedure for Getting Dentures 

For removable dentures, your dentist will first make an impression of your teeth and design digital study models. Based on this information, your dentist will determine the location and number of missing teeth required. 

Next, they will record the position and height of your “bite” so that your dentures offer the best facial aesthetics and allow you to eat and speak normally. Next, this bite record and the digital models will be sent to the laboratory, where the technician will place the artificial teeth on them. In the next appointment, your dentist will check this “try-in” on wax to assess the fit and aesthetics. 

If everything goes well, they will send it back to the laboratory for the final fabrication steps. 

  • The Procedure for Getting Dental Implants

The process of dental implants is entirely different. First, your dentist will perform a detailed clinical examination to ascertain the location and number of missing teeth. They will also decide whether implants are among the most effective solutions for replacing missing teeth in your case. 

The first step in the implant procedure is the administration of a local anaesthetic to make you pain-free. Next, your dentist will drill holes in the jawbone at pre-determined locations, where the implants will be inserted.

They will then screw in the implants using controlled forces and place healing collars over them to ensure uninterrupted healing. The implant site is then left undisturbed for 4 to 6 months. Once the implant has become firmly anchored within the jawbone, your dentist will place the artificial teeth on it to complete the implant process. 

How Long Do They Last? Durability and Maintenance

Dental implants can last a lifetime if an experienced and qualified dentist places them. On the other hand, dentures can last anywhere between 5 and 10 years, depending on the quality and how well they are looked after during use. So, if you’re looking for a durable tooth replacement option, you should consider dental implants. 

Can A Partial Denture Be Placed Over An Implant?

Yes, a partial denture can be attached over an implant. In such cases, the implant is used to support the denture instead of a natural tooth. Such a prosthesis is called an overdenture. This type of appliance combines the benefits of removable dentures and titanium implants. 

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Dentures And Implants?

Let’s compare the advantages of dental implants over removable dentures:

  • Durability – dental implants are considerably longer-lasting than dentures. In fact, they may last a lifetime if looked after carefully. On the other hand, the average lifespan of dentures is 5 to 10 years. 
  • Aesthetics – dental implants allow for the attachment of aesthetically pleasing zirconia crowns over them for tooth replacement. Hence, they offer lifelike aesthetics, making them indistinguishable from natural teeth. While dentures also possess acceptable aesthetics, they are prone to staining, which affects their aesthetics over time. 
  • Chewing Efficiency – since dental implants are inserted directly into the jawbone, they restore one’s ability to chew food normally. Moreover, there is no dietary restriction with tooth implants; you can eat all your favourite foods. On the other hand, denture wearers are asked to avoid eating hard and sticky foods, as they may result in their dentures getting dislodged. 

Which Is Safer? Dentures Or Implants?

Carefully prepared dentures are generally considered safe. However, poorly fabricated dentures using low-quality materials may release materials that may result in an allergic reaction to susceptible individuals. Dental implants, on the dental implants are made of titanium, which makes them safe for clinical use. 

How Do I Find The Best Dentist For Tooth Replacement Near Me?

If you’re looking for the best dentist for tooth replacement in Essex, your best option is to visit Harrow Dental Practice and Dental Implant Centre. Whether you need dentures or dental implants, our highly experienced dentists are there to take care of all your dental needs. Click here to make an enquiry, and let us take it from there. 

Dental Implants Near Me (Hornchurch) – Missing Teeth Treatment

When we discuss replacing missing teeth, dental implants are often the first option that comes to mind. Tooth implants have become the most preferred replacement option for missing teeth worldwide. According to the 2024 Dentistry Census, patients’ interest in getting dental implants in the UK has increased by 30% since 2021. If you are also interested in getting tooth implants and searching the internet for “dental implants near me”, this blog is for you. 

So, read the entire blog to learn everything you need to know about dental implants and why they are the best option for replacing missing teeth. 

What Is A Dental Implant And How Does It Work?

According to the British Society of Periodontology and Implant Dentistry, an implant is a screw-shaped fixture which is inserted into the jawbone to serve as a replacement tooth root. Tooth implants offer a long-term, convenient, and aesthetically pleasing solution for anyone who wishes to replace their missing natural teeth. 

Who Can Get Dental Implants?

Dental implants are suitable for anyone who is seeking a long-term solution for their missing teeth. However, an essential requirement for getting dental implants is that one must have good oral and physical health. More importantly, there should be sufficient high-quality bone available in the jaws to support the implant. 

What Are The Three Components Of A Dental Implant?

An implant-supported tooth consists of three components: the implant fixture, an abutment, and the prosthesis. The implant fixture is a screw-shaped structure made of titanium. It is surgically inserted into the jawbone, and it serves as an artificial tooth root. 

A beneficial aspect of dental implant treatment is that they promote bone formation around them. So over time, they become firmly anchored within the jawbone due to new bone tissue formation. Once the implant is anchored, your dentist will place a suitable prosthesis (false tooth) over it, such as a crown, an implant-supported denture, or an all-on-4 implant-supported complete fixed bridge. An abutment is the component of an implant that joins together the implant fixture and the prosthesis. 

Is A Tooth Implant Necessary?

A tooth implant – or any other tooth replacement option – becomes necessary when one has one or more missing teeth in their jaws. This is because even a single missing tooth can create long-term complications and affect one’s health and quality of life. 

Do I Need A Dental Implant After Extraction?

If your dentist has removed one of your natural teeth, it should be replaced with a suitable option. If you want a long-term solution for the missing tooth, you should consider a dental implant. This is because dental implants are durable and can last a lifetime. More importantly, they will restore your chewing efficiency, allowing you to eat all your favourite foods without difficulty. 

Can You Get Implants After Having Dentures For Years?

Many denture wearers often complain of poor fit and frequent denture slipping. Therefore, a lot of people consider dental implants after wearing dentures for many years. If you’re also fed up with your uncomfortable and unattractive dentures, there is good news for you! You can say goodbye to your removable dentures and replace them with permanent tooth implants. 

Is A Dental Implant Permanent?

Dental implants are a long-term solution for replacing missing teeth. Research studies have shown that the 10-year success rate of dental implants is more than 90%. Moreover, according to the Cleveland Clinic, dental implants can last a lifetime if they are looked after properly. So yes, dental implants are a permanent tooth replacement solution. 

Do Teeth Implants Need Maintenance?

Many people think that dental implants require extensive maintenance and are difficult to look after. The fact is that they require the same care as natural teeth. If you simply maintain optimal oral hygiene through regular brushing and flossing and visit your dentist regularly for checkups, you can rest assured that you won’t have any problems with your implant-supported teeth. 

Do Dental Implants Need To Be Replaced?

As discussed earlier, dental implants can last a lifetime if looked after properly. Hence, they usually don’t require replacement. However, dental implants can sometimes fail, too. This typically happens when the implants are placed by an inexperienced dentist. So, it is advisable to visit an experienced and qualified dentist for dental implant treatment. 

How Much Does A Tooth Implant Cost Uk?

The cost of dental implants in the UK depends on various factors, such as the dentist’s location and experience, the number of missing teeth, and the brand/quality of the implants used. However, the cost of a single tooth implant in the UK ranges between £1,800 and £3,000. Your implant dentist can give you an estimate of the costs involved after performing a detailed clinical examination. 

How To Find An Affordable Dental Implant Dentist In Hornchurch?

Dental implant treatment can be costly for many. That is why many people avoid this treatment option and consider other, less expensive options such as dentures or bridges. However, there are ways to make dental implant costs affordable. For example, you should consider a practice that offers flexible payment plans. This way, you can pay for your treatment in small, affordable instalments without putting a dent in your budget. 

If you are looking for the best implant dentistry practice in Hornchurch, your best option is to visit Harrow Dental Practice and Dental Implant Centre. Our specialised dental implant practice offers the highest quality services under one roof and at affordable rates. Click here to make an enquiry and let us take care of the rest. 

How Long Do Dental Implants Last? Factors To Consider

Tooth loss is becoming a growing concern in the UK. According to the Oral Health Foundation, over 71% of British adults have at least one tooth missing. Similarly, the Adult Oral Health Survey 2021 showed that almost 5% of the people in the UK have lost all their teeth. Unfortunately, even a single missing tooth can cause various oral and physical health complications, besides affecting one’s smile and facial aesthetics. If you have also lost one or more natural teeth, dental implants are the best tooth replacement option. 

But what are dental implants and how long do they last? You may ask! Don’t worry, we will provide answers to all your dental implant-related questions in this blog. So, continue reading to learn everything you need to know about implants for teeth. 

What are Dental Implants?

According to the American Academy of Periodontology, an implant is a screw-shaped titanium fixture placed into the jawbone. Dental implants serve as artificial roots and anchor themselves firmly in the jawbone to provide a strong foundation for the false teeth attached to it. Since dental implants are placed in the jaws just like natural teeth, they are considerably more durable and functionally efficient than other tooth replacement options such as bridges or dentures. 

How Long Do Dental Implants Take To Heal?

When considering dental implants for tooth replacement, you might be wondering about the time required for healing after implant surgery. The answer is that your dentist will perform the tooth implant surgery in two or more stages. In the first stage, they will surgically insert the implant within the jawbone. Afterwards, the surgical site will be left untouched for 4 – 6 months to ensure that healthy bone forms around the implant. So, only after about 6 months of implant placement will your dentist load it with a suitable prosthesis for tooth replacement.

What Is The Lifespan Of A Well-Treated Dental Implant?

Dental implants are by far the most durable option for replacing missing teeth. According to the Oral Health Foundation, well-looked-after and well-treated dental implants can last a lifetime. On the other hand, the risk of implant failure is significantly higher when they are placed by novice dentists. So, if you want to maximise the lifetime of your implants, you should go to an experienced and qualified dentist. 

How Many Days Does It Take To Implant A Tooth?

The surgical process of placing an implant into the jawbone, also called implantation, can be completed in a single sitting. However, it may take up to 6 months for the implant surgical site to heal properly and promote sufficient bone formation around it. So, placing an implant does not take long, but your dentist will wait for a few months before they will load it with a suitable prosthesis. 

Are Dental Implants Safe For My Long-Term Oral Health?

Dental implants have become the most sought-after tooth replacement option in the UK. This is because of their excellent durability, the ability to restore one’s facial aesthetics, and more importantly, their biocompatibility. Dental implants are made of titanium alloys, making them suitable for implantation in the oral cavity without the risk of adverse effects or an allergic reaction. So, if you’re looking for the safest tooth replacement option, you should consider dental implants. 

Do All-On-4 Dental Implants Last Forever?

An all-on-four implant is a prosthesis used for replacing all missing teeth in a jaw using tooth implants. It consists of four implants placed in each jaw that support a complete fixed bridge. Since the all-on-4 prosthesis is supported by dental implants, it provides excellent stability and is significantly more durable than the other tooth replacement options such as dentures and bridges. With proper care, you can expect your all-on-4 implant-supported teeth to last a lifetime. 

What Happens If You Don’t Get Dental Implants?

Not everyone needs a tooth implant. They are needed for only those individuals who have lost one or more teeth. However, if you don’t get an implant even if you have missing teeth, it can lead to various complications. First, bone tissue around the missing tooth starts to degrade, making the jawbone brittle and fracture-prone. Secondly, this bone degradation can also cause significant facial structural and aesthetic changes. Finally, it becomes challenging to eat and speak properly when one has one or more missing teeth. So, it is advisable to replace one’s missing teeth as soon as possible. 

What Should I Do If I Get An Infection After Dental Implants?

An infection around an implant is called peri-implantitis. This condition typically occurs when a dentist hasn’t ensured optimal infection control or if they have applied too much during implant placement. If you feel that you have an infection around the implant site – which is characterised by pain and swelling – you should consult your dentist immediately. 

Do I Have To Get My Implants Replaced After 10 Years?

It is not necessary to have your tooth implants replaced after 10 years. In fact, most dental implants last for a lifetime if they are looked after properly. You can consider tooth implants as the next best thing to natural teeth. 

Why Would You Need A Dental Implant?

When considering tooth implants, it is advisable to seek the services of a specialist implant dentist. Why? Because implant dentists have obtained additional training and qualifications in replacing missing teeth with implants. This means that they are better equipped to perform implant procedures with minimal risk of adverse effects or complications. 

If you are looking for the best implant dentist practice in Essex London, Harrow Dental Practice and Dental Implant Centre is your best option. We take pride in having one of the best dental professionals and equipment in town, to ensure that you get the most out of your implant treatment. Click here to make an enquiry regarding tooth implants and let us take care of all your dental needs.