If you’re considering a dental implant in Richmond or elsewhere in the UK, then you’re probably wondering just who places the implants and what is involved. Many clinics such Sheen Dental offer a complimentary dental implant consultation where you get to meet everyone involved have a look at the facilities, and have any questions answered. The dental implant procedure generally involves a team who will assess and put a plan in place for the dental implant placement and restoration, as well as designing and crafting the crowns, dentures or bridgework which are fixed onto the implants and are visible in your mouth. The team consists of a dental surgical specialist, in the case of Sheen Dental, this is Dr Harmit Kalsi, who is a Dental Implantologist, but it could be a periodontist, oral surgeon, or even a general dentist who has undergone extensive training in implant surgery; a restorative dentist who is responsible for planning and placing the crowns; and a dental technician who works in the laboratory to fabricate them.
A surgical procedure is needed to cut open part of the gum in order to create precise channels in the jawbone into which the implants will be placed. The implants are slotted into the channels so that they are touching the bone and the gums are then stitched back together. Time is then allowed for the area to heal and for the bone to fuse with the titanium implant, in a process known as osseointegration. This can take anywhere from 3 to 9 months depending on the individual.
Options for implant tooth replacement
At Sheen Dental and other clinics offering dental implants in Richmond, your dentist will discuss various options for implant tooth replacement. These include:
Single tooth replacement – Sometimes right away, but usually once the gum area has healed, an abutment will be affixed to the implant. This then joins the implant to the false tooth (crown) and forms the part of the tooth that is visible in your mouth. The tooth will have been custom made to fit the gap and colour matched to your natural teeth. It is cemented or screwed onto the abutment to keep it securely in place.
Fixed multiple tooth replacement – Similar to a replacement for a single tooth, abutments which are temporary may be fixed onto several implants until the area has fully healed. After healing the permanent abutments will be joined to the implants. They can then be attached to bridgework or custom made crowns and cemented or screwed into place.
Removable Implant (tooth replacement that is supported) – If all of your lower teeth are missing then two to six implants may be used to give support to a lower denture. If all of the upper teeth are missing then a minimum of four implants may be used to support an upper denture. These dentures can fix onto the implants with clips or attachments to keep them securely in place. They’re often used in cases where many teeth have been lost and to prevent further bone and gum tissue loss and offer extra support for the facial skeleton, cheeks and lips.
If you want more information about dental implants in Richmond, then speak to Sheen Dental. They’ve been successfully fitting dental implants for many years and have a wealth of experience. Why not contact them today on 020 8876 5277 and book a free implant consultation, or visit the website at www.sheendental.co.uk