Single and Multiple Implants
Dental implants are an alternative for one or more missing teeth, where full or partial dentures were the only previous option. They work by inserting a special screw made out of titanium alloy into the jawbone and then attaching a false tooth (a 'crown') to the implanted screw.
Dental implants make use of a natural process of the body referred to as 'osseointegration', whereby certain materials - including titanium - bond to human bone. This process takes anywhere from 2-6 months, after which a section called an 'abutment' is added to the screw implant and then the crown is attached to this. During the time it takes for the implant to heal, a temporary crown or denture may be put in place.
Implants can also be used to either support and retain dentures, or as full arch bridges, known as the 'ALL ON 4' technique.
Before a dental implant can be inserted, a 3D scan of existing bone structure is required to make sure that the dental implant/s will take, along with a general check of the health of the gums.
Implant retained dentures
Implant retained dentures is a surgical technique that involves two or more implants and a fully fitted, secured denture.
All-on-4 Total Oral Rehabilitation
The 'ALL ON 4' (or 'full arch teeth replacement') technique allows the placement of a fixed, complete set of teeth to be located on four or more implants, and is suitable for most patients who have lost a number of teeth, or all of them.
The technique significantly reduces treatment times and recovery times compared to other approaches.
Both implant retained dentures and the 'ALL ON 4' techniques have their different applications and appearance, and our dentists can advise you of the differences between the two.
Advantages of dental implants vs dentures
- More natural look and feel
- Have positive retention and are more stable
- Help protect the jawbone from possible deterioration
Our dentists can help you weigh up the relative advantages and disadvantages of dental implants as opposed to dentures.