Consultation And Treatment Planning
The cost of treatment varies depending on the complexity of the treatment and on the materials required. A consultation with our implant dentist is often the best way to find out how much treatment would cost. This is determined by the number of implants indicated, the need for additional procedures to regenerate bone, and the type of replacement structure.
Dental Implant Placement
Dental implants are placed under local anaesthetic, so the procedure is not painful. Just like with any other dental procedure, local anaesthetic takes away any painful sensation for several hours so that you can comfortably undergo the procedure. We can also undertake the procedure with local anaesthetic and sedation.
Review
It is normal to experience some discomfort for up to 10 days following the implant placement procedure. After 2 weeks we will arrange a review appointment so that we can check on the healing, make adjustments and if needed to remove your stitches.
The Healing Period
Once your bone has grown on to the implant (a process called osseointegration) the risk of complications when attaching teeth to the implants (referred to as ‘loading’) decreases. This healing period typically takes 2 to 3 months.
The Restoration Period
Following the healing period, we will bring you in to recheck the success of your implant surgery. Implant integration success rates in healthy non-smoking patients is more than 95% and it is at this stage that we are able to confirm whether your implants have integrated successfully.
Maintenance
Dental implants can last forever but this is not always the case. It is best to make your decision on the assumption that you will need some form of maintenance of your implant and restoration in your lifetime – the younger you are, the more likely this will be. Complications related to dental implants can be categorised as short