Dental implants are made of titanium and are screwed into the jawbone underneath the gums. They are designed to provide support to replacement teeth that will get inserted onto the implants once they have properly fused into the gum and jawbone. Patients seeking to get dental implants Navan can arrange an initial consultation to discuss whether this treatment is appropriate for them.
The procedure
Dental implants are a more permanent solution that are designed to support false teeth such as crowns, dentures and bridges. They won’t slip or move, which means that patients will be able to comfortably eat, drink and speak without any fear of displacing their dentures or bridges. Implants can be used to replace either a single tooth or multiple teeth. This will depend on the patient’s individual circumstances and can be discussed with the dentist at the initial consultation where patients will be given expert advice and a treatment plan will be set up to determine the best options.
It usually takes about two appointments to fit the dental implants after the initial consultation. At the first appointment the dental implant will be surgically screwed into the jawbone. The second appointment will take place a few months after the first appointment in order to give the gums and the jaw time to heal and settle and to enable the implant to fuse into the jawbone and become a natural part of the jaw’s structure. At the second appointment the new tooth or teeth are placed on top of the dental implant. The procedure is undertaken under local anaesthetic to ensure that patients do not suffer any discomfort or pain at the appointment.
Prior to having the dental implant procedure it is important that patients maintain good oral hygiene, due to the fact that they cannot undergo the treatment if they have unhealthy gums or any form of infection. Patients should brush and floss twice daily and maintain their teeth. Following the treatment, patients may experience slight soreness however this will heal once the implant has settled into the gums and jawbone. Patients can take painkillers and apply gels to their gums to soothe them should they require.
Benefits of dental implants
There are many benefits of undergoing a dental implant procedure. One of the main benefits is that it gives individuals a confidence boost. It is common for people to become self-conscious, disheartened and embarrassed when they lose their teeth. However dental implants can change that by enhancing their overall appearance and improving their smile. In addition the devices attached to dental implants are very natural looking which makes them more aesthetically pleasing to the eye. Dental implants themselves can be a permanent solution and are long lasting. If cared for properly, dental implants can last practically up to a lifetime making them a financially viable option for patients in comparison with unsupported dentures and other non-permanent treatments that will only last between 5-10 years due to the nature of the treatment.
Cost
Dental implants are only available privately and therefore patients should speak to their dentist at the initial appointment and discuss the best payment plan that suits their personal and financial circumstances.
