If you’ve ever experienced a missing tooth then you know just how embarrassing and socially awkward it can be. Speaking can become problematic as can eating and often, the only true recourse is a dental implant. In Richmond, here at Sheen Dental we’ve been placing implants in our London patients for many years and know first hand the true benefits that they can bring. However we also know that there are certain things that you’ll need to consider before and after surgery. Let’s take a look…
Choosing the right clinic
There’s no getting away from the fact that dental implants are expensive and some say “reassuringly so”. In most cases the cost covers the materials, the state-of-the-art equipment used in the process and the expertise of the specialist implant dentist. However people are often lured by the signs of cheap dental implants. Although it sounds good on paper, very often the reason they are cheap is because the dentist has little or no experience. By advertising cheap prices it’s usually the only way that they can compete. Choosing the right clinic with the right dental surgeon is likely to dramatically increase your chances of implant success.
If you smoke you’ll need to stop
Once you’ve considered dental implants in Richmond, or indeed anywhere else in the country you’ll be given a thorough oral examination to discuss the best course of action going forwards. During the examination your dentist will want to know things about your lifestyle and your overall health too, as this could have a bearing on the success of your implants. Smoking for example can cause problems during the osseointegration (bone fusion) process and can even cause bacteria which is harmful to dental implants especially in the early days. Because of this, most dentists won’t fit implants to a person who continues to smoke and will suggest that they quit altogether, especially if the patient is to ensure that their implants last. If the patient finds quitting impossible, then the dentist may suggest that they cease until the implant has fully integrated with the bone. (This can take up to 9 months).
Commit to taking good care of the implants
Unfortunately however good dental implants are, they aren’t a ‘set and forget’ form of tooth replacement. Just like your normal teeth they require a high level of oral hygiene and this means regular cleaning and flossing. Therefore to avoid costly replacements you’ll need to make a life-long commitment to ensure continuing implant success.
If you want to find out more about just how dental implants can change your life for the better then why not book a free non obligatory consultation at Sheen Dental. Alternatively why not visit our website at www.sheendental.co.uk where you can find a wealth of information to help.