Dental implants are widely regarded as the most effective and natural looking long term method of tooth replacement that is currently available and as a cosmetic dentist in Southampton we’ve certainly noticed a huge increase in
their popularity.
Dental implants consist of a titanium post which is surgically inserted into the jawbone and which over a few weeks or months fuses with the surrounding bone so that it becomes a permanent fixture in the mouth. Once it has stabilised then it’s able to support a prosthetic tooth or crown. A dental implant is the only method of tooth replacement which replaces an entire natural tooth since it replaces both the visible part of the tooth and the root below. Not only does the titanium post stimulate the surrounding gum tissue and bone but it also prevents any further bone loss from occurring, which happens naturally when a tooth is lost.
The great thing about dental implants is their versatility as they can be used in a number of ways to meet different dental needs. You can read about three of the most popular ways of using dental implants below.
- Single tooth replacement – Dental implants are a great solution for anyone who has lost a single tooth either through decay or injury. Colour matched and shaped to match the patient’s existing teeth, they blend in for a seamless finish. Not only do they look completely natural but they feel and act just like real teeth and are permanently attached.
- Multiple teeth replacement – If you’re missing multiple teeth (usually six or more) then your Southampton dentist may suggest using a fixed bridge to restore your smile. Unlike a denture there is nothing going over your gums or touching the roof of the mouth. Instead fixed bridges are cemented to dental implants and can only be removed by your dentist. They consist of porcelain teeth which are fused to metal which makes them very strong. The teeth seem to ’emerge’ from the gums and look totally natural. A fixed bridge does require more implants and a good density of bone, although this can often be augmented with a bone graft.
- Implant retained dentures – These are ideal for people who have been wearing dentures for years and need extra hold and security. Just a couple of dental implants can be placed
into the jaw to support a single set of dentures. Using special clips which are located both on the implant and the underside of the denture, the denture simply snaps into position keeping it secure and stable. For cleaning purposes the denture is snapped off, cleaned and then put back into position.
If you’re interested in learning more about dental implants and finding out if they are a suitable fit for you, then why not come and talk to Dr Thomas Darling and meet the team at Smilemakers. You can book online at www.smilemakers.co.uk or call us direct on 02380 442626. You can trust us to put a smile on your face.
