How Dental Implants Can Help Rebuild Your Smile
Discover why dental implants are the best solution for teeth replacement in this complete guide, with an overview of the different types, benefits, procedures, and costs.
Dental implants are the unrivalled solution for replacing missing teeth. By combining advanced technology, precise placement, and osseointegration, they not only restore the natural beauty and function of your smile but also support and preserve your jawbone structure.
But with various types of dental implants and procedures available, it’s important to consider which option is right for you.
In this piece, we’ll guide you through the variations, discuss the key benefits, and provide an overview of the procedure, longevity, and costs. Let’s explore.
What Are the 3 Types of Dental Implants?
Considered the gold standard of tooth replacement, dental implants combine artificial roots with prosthetic teeth to not only replace missing teeth but also preserve bone structure.
Distinguished by where the implant is placed, we can divide dental implants into three main categories:
- Endosteal Dental Implants – Traditionally, the most common and least complex, Endosteal implants are placed directly into the jawbone and support single crowns, bridges, or dentures.
- Subperiosteal Dental Implants – Supporting various prosthetic teeth, Subperiosteal implants are placed under the gum but above the jawbone and are designed for patients with limited bone density.
- Zygomatic Dental Implants – As the least common and most complex, Zygomatic implants are attached to the cheekbone. Ideal for patients with severe bone loss in the upper jaw.
The type of dental implant procedure you decide on will depend on your bone density, the number of missing teeth, and your overall oral health.
6 Benefits of Dental Implants
With clarity over the types available, let’s take a look at the benefits of dental implants:
-
Prevents Bone Loss
Without a natural tooth root to stimulate the jawbone, missing teeth can cause bone loss over time and even alter the shape of your face. Dental implants replace the root and stimulate the jawbone, helping prevent deterioration while preserving your natural facial structure.
-
Long-Lasting Solution
One of the best benefits of dental implants is their longevity. Unlike other tooth replacement options, implants become a permanent part of your jaw through the process of osseointegration. With proper care, they integrate seamlessly with your natural teeth, offering a long-term solution for your oral health.
-
Natural Appearance & Function
By not only replacing the missing tooth but also the root into the jawbone, a dental implant stays fixed, so not only does it look like a natural tooth replacement, but it feels like one too.
-
Stable Structure
Dental implants preserve the integrity of your surrounding teeth, as they do not require altering or supporting adjacent teeth like dental bridges. This helps maintain the natural structure and strength of your smile both during treatment and long after surgery.
-
Comfort & Confidence
Because dental implants are securely fixed in place, they won’t shift or move when speaking or eating, eliminating any discomfort or embarrassment, empowering you to smile, talk, and enjoy your food with complete confidence.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
When properly cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime. Although the crown or prosthetic tooth may need replacing after 10-15 years, the titanium implant should last at least 20-30 years, if not decades longer.
How Long Does a Dental Implant Procedure Take?
Although the surgery itself is relatively quick, typically one to two hours, the full dental implant process can take anywhere from three to nine months, depending on the procedure.
This process can be divided into the following stages:
Consultation & Assessment
The first step is a consultation with your implant dentist at your dental practice. During this appointment, they will review your oral health, discuss your preferences or concerns, and take the necessary scans to assess the extent of treatment to create a personalised plan.
This assessment may include X-rays and CBCT scans to evaluate your bone density and determine whether additional procedures, such as bone grafting or a sinus lift, are required.
Treatment Plan
Following your consultation and assessment, a personalised treatment plan will be created based on the results of scans and other analyses.
Preliminary Procedures (If Required)
Preliminary procedures for dental implants would involve bone grafting or a sinus lift. If building up insufficient jawbone is required, it will add 3-6 months of healing time before your surgery.
Surgery – Placing Your Implant
The first stage of surgery requires securing the artificial root into your jawbone. Same-day teeth procedures will attach teeth straight away. However, the bone and gums require some healing time before your crown or prosthetic is fixed.
Surgery – Fitting Your Teeth Replacement
After the implant is secured into the jawbone, you may need to wait a few months before it’s ready to secure the replacement tooth or teeth.
How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?
The cost of dental implants varies depending on the treatment, quality, and location. A single tooth implant can start around £1,500 and reach £4,000 at specialist clinics.
Procedures replacing three to four teeth, such as implant-supported bridges, typically range from £7,000 to £10,500. Full-mouth restorations can cost £15,000 to £20,000 or more.
Restore Your Smile with Expert Dental Implants in Cheltenham
Illume 360° Dental Care is a trusted private dental practice in Cheltenham, providing specialist dental implant treatments tailored to your needs.
With our in-house implant dentist, we offer a full range of solutions from single implants to same-day teeth, including hard and soft tissue grafting.
For more information on how our advanced dental implants can restore your smile, get in touch with the team today to arrange your initial consultation.
