INITIAL CONSULTATION An assessment will be made of the feasibility of providing implants for you. The sequence of the treatment and full cost of each stage will be discussed and detailed in a subsequent written treatment plan. At this appointment X-rays are taken and if necessary a CT Scan will be organised on your behalf.

SURGICAL STENT PREPARATION Accurate models are prepared of your mouth and areas requiring implants. A surgical stent is constructed in preparation for the next stage so that the implants can be precisely positioned. BONE GRAFTING PROCEDURE (if required) Following the loss of natural teeth, the underlying bone may slowly diminish. If insufficient bone remains, a variety of techniques are available to create new bone before implants are placed.

PLACEMENT OF IMPLANTS The actual operation to place the implant fixture under the gum. These form the foundation and fulfil the same function as the roots of your natural teeth. This operation can be performed with you awake under local anaesthesia, or with sedation, which makes the treatment easier and more pleasant.

EXPOSURE OF IMPLANTS After a 3-6 month period to allow the implants time for full integration with your bone structure, the top of the implant can be exposed. This involves a small operation usually carried out under local anaesthetic. The gum is left to settle for a few weeks after which the implants can be brought into function.

RESTORATIVE TREATMENT This stage uses the implant to support the replacement teeth. Impressions are taken and the restorations are constructed at a specialist dental laboratory. The types of restoration vary greatly, from a simple crown for a missing tooth to full dentures that are kept firmly in place by two or more implants. In more complex cases it is possible to construct full mouth fixed bridges using multiple implants.

HYGIENE AND IMPLANT MAINTENANCE

Regular and professional care is important in the maintenance of good dental health. This can be carried out by your regular Dentist.

Implant work will not succeed unless immaculate oral hygiene is maintained. Following the completion of the implant treatment, patients are to be reviewed on an annual basis, by the Specialist Surgeon. In the long term, it is necessary to assess and monitor gum attachment and underlying gum support with both radiographs and routine hygienist visits.

WHAT DO I DO NEXT?

Please contact our Reception to arrange an appointment.