FAQ'S

What will the placement procedure involve?
Several steps are usually necessary to place an implant, however this will depend on your unique clinical requirements. During your initial consultation, your mouth will be examined by our dental implant surgeon Dr Lidia Ferritto before the decision to perform the dental implant procedure is made. He will determine the condition of your jaws and gums and then assess your clinical needs and personal requirements. You will then be provided with a full written treatment plan so that you may be clear about the cost of treatment, and what is involved, before you make any decisions.

The placement procedure for dental implants follows a series of simple steps:
     For patients with inadequate bone mass to support the implant, bone replacement material and regenerative gum tissue gel can reinforce the implant site.
     Using local anesthetic, you dental suregon will carefully anchor the implant into the jawbone. The Straumann® Implant System is unique in that, after placement, the Straumann® implant is not covered with gum tissue. There is therefore no need for a second surgery to uncover it before attaching the artificial tooth.
     Your jawbone will be allowed to heal and bond to the implant before the dentures are attached. During the six-week to twelve-month recovery time, you will wear a temporary restoration. Once the implant site has healed, your artificial teeth will be put in place for a durable, realistic looking smile.

How will my new teeth differ from real teeth?
With implant supported teeth it is almost impossible to tell the difference compared to natural teeth. With an implant-anchored full bridge there is a narrow space between your gum and the prosthesis which is externally invisible and facilitates cleaning.

How do dental implant supported teeth differ from a conventional prosthesis (such as a bridge or denture)?
Compared to a conventional prosthesis, implant supported teeth:
     Function, look and feel like natural teeth.
     Allow you to speak, smile and eat with confidence.
     Are comfortable and stay in place.
     Do not need other teeth for support and do not require "cutting down" or preparation of other teeth.

How long will my new teeth last?
With proper care and cleaning, dental implants can last a lifetime. Like natural teeth, with the passing of time, the crowns could become worn or damaged. The big difference is that your new teeth can easily be repaired or replaced, using the same implants for support.

Can I eat whatever I want?
Yes, there is no difference between natural and implant-supported teeth in what you can eat. If you have experienced problems earlier, you will be pleasantly surprised at the positive change that has taken place.

What is the success rate of dental implants?
After their healing period, the success rate of dental implants is between 94% and 98%. If you are a non-smoker with good oral hygiene, the percentage is closer to 98%.

Can any problems occur?
A few people can have initial problems speaking clearly after receiving an implant-supported bridge or denture. Usually, this adjustment phase lasts only a few days before normal speaking returns. This occurs much less frequently than with a conventional bridge or denture.

If you have any questions or would like any further information about our cosmetic dental treatments, please call us on 020 7091 0677 or click here to book a consultation with a member of our team.