Implants

What does this treatment involve?

Implants can either be used to replace missing teeth or to support fixed bridges or dentures.

You should discuss this treatment with your dentist to see whether it is right for you. Your dentist may carry out this treatment or they may refer you to a specialist.

If you and your dentist decide that you should have this treatment, here are the following stages of treatment that you will have to go through:

• The implant will be placed into your jaw bone, whilst you are under a local or general anaesthetic
• The implant is then screwed or pushed into the gum. It is then stitched up, so that the gum heals over the implant
• Over a period of several months, the bone underneath the gum will grow around the implant to hold it firmly in place
• When the post is secure, the second section of the treatment will involve adding an extension. Attaching the extension, will require a small cut in the gum above the implant
• The implant may be fixed permanently and in such cases, there is sometimes a gap below the tooth, so that the implant can be kept clean. Alternatively, it may be attached in a certain way that will allow you to remove and clean it
• Implants are a good option for improving the appearance of your mouth, as they replace missing teeth and it will not be evident that you have implants in your mouth. However, they are not suitable for everyone

Please note that implants are a specialist treatment and therefore, are not covered by Denplan Care.