Who can have dental implants?
Implants are suitable for most adults who are missing one, several or all of their teeth and whose general health allows a surgical procedure. Because jawbone growth is not yet complete, implants are not usually chosen for children and young teenagers.
Suitability is assessed after an examination and X-rays, based on the amount and quality of your jawbone, the health of your gums and your general health. Uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking or certain medicines can affect healing, so please always mention them at your examination.
What if there is not enough bone?
After a tooth is lost, the jawbone may gradually begin to shrink. If there is not enough bone, bone grafting or, in the upper jaw, a sinus lift can be carried out before the implant or in the same session.
Whether these additional procedures are needed will be explained to you clearly after the examination and imaging.
The procedure and healing
Implant placement is usually carried out under local anaesthetic, and you usually feel no pain during the procedure. Afterwards, in most cases there is a wait of 2 to 4 months while the implant fuses with the bone; temporary solutions can be used during this time.
Once the implant has fused, a crown, bridge or denture is made on top of it. At our practice we work with high-quality, certified implants and restoration materials, with careful surgical and prosthetic work.
What implants offer
An implant makes it possible to replace a missing tooth with a fixed tooth without touching the neighbouring teeth. Because it transfers chewing forces to the jawbone, it may also help slow the bone loss that follows tooth loss.
For patients with no teeth, a few implants can help removable dentures stay more stable. How long an implant stays healthy depends largely on good oral hygiene, avoiding smoking and regular check-ups.
During the examination we discuss openly whether an implant is suitable for you, together with any alternatives; the decision is always yours, made with full information.
How does the treatment work?
- Examination and imagingThe bone structure is assessed with an oral examination and X-rays, and the treatment plan is discussed with you.
- Implant placementThe implant is placed in the jawbone under local anaesthetic; bone grafting is carried out if needed.
- HealingWe wait for the implant to fuse with the bone; check-up appointments take place during this period.
- RestorationImpressions are taken and a crown, bridge or denture is fitted on the implant.
- Regular check-upsGood oral hygiene and periodic check-ups are recommended to keep the implant healthy for a long time.
Frequently asked questions
Do dental implants hurt?
Because the implant procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic, you usually feel no pain during it. There may be mild pain and swelling for a few days afterwards; for most people this is controlled with the painkillers recommended by the dentist.
How long does implant treatment take?
From placing the implant to fitting the restoration, the process usually takes between 2 and 6 months. If bone grafting or a sinus lift is needed, it may take longer; the exact timeline is decided after the examination.
How long do dental implants last?
How long an implant lasts varies from person to person, and it would not be right to give a fixed figure. Good oral hygiene, avoiding smoking and regular check-ups make an important contribution to keeping an implant healthy for many years.
When can I eat after an implant?
Once the anaesthetic has worn off, you can have lukewarm, soft foods. In the first few days it is advisable to avoid chewing on the treated side and to avoid very hot or hard foods.
