If you’re looking to get a dental implant in Richmond then you’re probably well aware that a dental implant is the most natural looking and long lasting replacement for missing teeth currently available in the dental world. However, a dental implant isn’t for everyone and not everybody is a suitable candidate. Here at Sheen Dental we always recommend that a prospective client comes to the clinic for a free consultation whereby we can carry out a thorough oral examination, determine whether or not they are in fact a suitable candidate, and answer any questions that they may have. It also gives the prospective patient a chance to meet the dental team and take a look at the surroundings to put themselves more at ease before the procedure goes ahead.
Planning is as important as the implant surgery itself, since it is vital that the implant is placed in the correct position and that the bone tissue itself is dense enough to support the implant and give it the best possible chance of success. During the planning stage the implant surgeon will visually examine and assess the site in the mouth where it is being considered to place the implant as well as carefully studying X-rays and CT scans before making the decision to go ahead with the implant procedure. Once that decision has been made then the patient will return to the clinic once more for the actual surgery.
At the implant placement appointment we will in most cases give the patient a local anaesthetic to numb the surgical area. (Nervous patients may request conscious sedation). An incision is made into the gum and the titanium implant is placed into the jaw bone using a special drill and tools. The gum is then stitched back together and the patient enters the healing phase. Healing time varies greatly from one individual to another and can take anywhere from 2 to 6 months. A process known as osseointegration should occur during this process whereby the implant fuses with the bone tissue resulting in a strong platform which supports the implant and prevents it from loosening and falling out. It’s important during this healing process to stick to soft foods and avoid putting too much pressure on the implant as it heals.
Following the healing period we’ll take another look at the implant to test whether osseointegration has been successful. If everything is looking good then we’ll go ahead and connect an abutment to the implant via a screw. This will be used to hold the replacement tooth or crown in place. A mould is taken of the abutment so that a crown can be made to custom-fit. This will then be cemented or screwed into place on the abutment and you’ll be left with a natural looking tooth that feels and acts just like your own teeth.
If you’re interested in finding out more about dental implants in Richmond or booking for a free consultation, then just give us a call on 020 8876 5277 or visit our website at www.sheendental.co.uk. Dr Harmit Kalsi and his team look forward to meeting you.