Dental implants are a unique and modern way of replacing teeth that have fallen out or been extracted. Unlike other tooth replacement solutions, dental implants are focused on a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone. This post acts as an anchor for the restoration, making it more stable, secure and long-lasting than alternative techniques. The visible part of the tooth – a custom-designed crown – is then connected to the post, completing the restoration. 

Dental implants rely on a process called osseointegration. This is a biological process where the jawbone that is damaged to place the implant posts heals, closing around the implant to anchor it permanently into the mouth. If osseointegration doesn’t happen, the implant could fail. However, for this process to be successful, patients must have enough healthy bone in their jaw. 

The density and quality of your jawbone will be assessed at your consultation. If your dental implant dentist decides that you don’t have sufficient bone in your jaw, you may need to have a procedure called bone grafting before you can get dental implants. This is where additional bone is grafted onto the jaw to improve its strength and density. 

Every patient is different and dental implants can be used to replace single or multiple missing teeth. If you have several missing teeth in a row, you may be recommended to have an implant-supported bridge or denture. This is where a custom-designed denture is created and supported on implant posts rather than sitting directly onto the gum tissue. The more teeth you are having replaced, the most implant posts you will need to support them. For example, dentures usually require four implants to secure them. 

The entire dental implant process usually takes between four and six months, and this is because it takes time for the implants to be encased in the jawbone. In terms of the actual surgery, it takes around 60 minutes to place one implant. Depending on how many implants you are having, it may be necessary to have your surgery spread over several appointments. 

Your dental implant procedure will perform your dental implant treatment using local anesthetic, meaning that you won’t feel any discomfort during the surgery itself. However, it is normal to experience some swelling and soreness at the site of the surgery for several days following implant placement. Full post-operative care will be provided by your implant dentist and will be explained before the surgery. You will be able to take some over the counter pain relief to help you to control your discomfort.

With proper care and attention, including daily brushing and flossing to prevent gum disease, dental implants typically last longer than any other dental restoration. Your dentist will give you specific advice for taking care of your dental implants. 

There are many benefits of dental implants, including:

• Budget for routine preventive care and stay on track with your oral health
  

• Regular visits to the dentist help prevent costly restorative treatments
  

• Easy to set up plan with no pre-assessment necessary
  

• Plan includes check-ups, hygiene treatment, dental x-rays, preventive dental advice & any other additional treatment specified in your contract
  

• 50% off teeth whitening after 6 months
  

• 10% off selected treatments
  

• World-wide accident & emergency insurance
  

• Adult & children’s payment plans available to suit your dental needs and budget
  

Dental implants at Riverside Dental start at £3100. We understand that a one-off cost isn’t affordable to every patient, and we are delighted to be able to offer a number of payment plans* which gives you more options when it comes to covering the cost of your treatment.

*Term and conditions apply.