Dental Implants - Full Teeth Replacement

Dental Implants - Full Teeth Replacement - Frequently Asked Questions

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that a periodontist places into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are an ideal option for people in good general oral health who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason. Below you will find the most Frequently Asked Questions. Should you require any additional information please contact us through our Online Form or by phone +44 (0) 207 553 3421

Are Dental Implants Successful?

Research and documentation studies have proven the effectiveness and long lasting results of dental implants. Statistics show a success rate of over 95% in documented studies. Good oral hygiene is one of the most critical factors to ensure the health of your dental implants. The dentist will instruct you on the proper home hygiene procedures to keep your dental implants and remaining teeth clean and healthy. Regular visits to your dentist are important so your dentist can assess the health of your replacement teeth and gum tissue. You can rely on your replacement teeth to look, feel and function like natural teeth for years to come.

Will Dental Implants Give Me An Improved Appearance?

When teeth are lost, ongoing shrinkage of the jawbone occurs making the face look older. Dental implants can slow or stop this process. Dental implants look and feel like your own natural teeth.

Will Dental Implants Give Me Improved Comfort?

Dental implants eliminate the pain and discomfort of removable full or partial dentures. Since dentures sit on top of the jawbone and gums, continuous shrinkage of the jawbone alters the fit of the denture resulting in slipping or rocking of the dentures. Exposed nerves and irritation of gum tissue may add to the discomfort. Implant supported replacement teeth are like natural teeth because they are anchored securely to the jawbone. Gum irritation and the pain of exposed nerves associated with conventional full or partial dentures are eliminated.

Will Dental Implants Give Me Improved Speech?

With ill fitting dentures, the teeth slip and slide around the mouth. The facial muscles become tense in an attempt to hold the teeth in place. This often results in mumbling, slurred speech or clicking noises. Replacement teeth allow you to speak with confidence in a relaxed and natural tone.

Will Dental Implants Allow Me To Eat Better?

Dental implants can restore chewing efficiency comparable to that of natural teeth. This allows you to eat your favourite foods with confidence and without pain, and to enjoy what everyone is eating and not think twice about it. A full upper denture covers the palate of the mouth and reduces the ability to taste foods. With dental implants, you can have the palate removed from your upper denture so you can taste and enjoy your food.

Are Dental Implants Fiddly?

Dental implants can eliminate the numerous embarrassing inconveniences of removable partial and full dentures. You will eliminate the use of gooey denture adhesives that must be re-applied throughout the day. You will no longer need to cover your mouth when you laugh or smile, for fear that your teeth will pop out or fall down.

How Long Does It Take To Fit My Dental Implants?

The complete implant reconstruction process may take approximately 4 to 6 months. Time is needed for your jawbone to grow around the implant and for your replacement teeth to be made. Procedures vary, but it usually includes two surgical steps and then the restoration is fabricated.

First, your dentist or a specialist places the dental implants into your jawbone. Bone cells grow around the implants which may take up to six months to occur. Your dentist or the specialist then makes a small incision in the gum tissue and connects a healing post to your implant(s). The gum tissue heals around the post for a period of 3-6 weeks or longer. Your dentist then attaches a post and makes the replacement teeth.

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

The fee for tooth replacement with dental implants will depend on several factors, including the number of teeth being replaced; and the number of implants required to support your replacement teeth; and the type of implant and dentures you choose.

Is the procedure painful?

Just as with any surgery, there can be some discomfort. Local anaesthesia and patient sedation are used to eliminate any discomfort at the time of the procedure. Most patients report that there is very little discomfort and that they were much more comfortable following the procedure than they anticipated. The doctor will prescribe medications to ease any discomfort that may occur.

What is a Dental Implant?

Dental implants are small titanium fixtures that serve as the replacement for the root portion of missing teeth. The implant is placed in the bone of the upper or lower jaw and allowed to bond with the bone and serve as an anchor for the replacement teeth. Implant supported replacement teeth look, feel and function like natural teeth. Dental implants are a proven restorative option with a long clinical history. Dental implants preserve the integrity of the facial structure and reduce the inconvenience associated with tooth loss.

Am I A Candidate For Dental Implants?

Anyone who is missing teeth due to injury, disease or decay, may be a candidate for dental implants. If some teeth are missing, dental implants in conjunction with a crown or bridge can replace those teeth without losing more bone. If all or most of your teeth are missing, the dental implants may be placed to replace a loose fitting full or partial denture. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant(s) along with healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease. Occasionally, older patients express concern that their age may prevent them from enjoying the benefits that dental implants offer. However, health is more of a determining factor than age. If you are healthy enough to have a tooth extracted, you are probably healthy enough to receive dental implants. Certain chronic diseases may contraindicate implant treatment. Your dentist will determine if you are a candidate for dental implants after a careful evaluation of your dental and medical health history.

Should I inform the doctor if there is anything unusual in my medical history?

Yes, although this is covered in the pre-surgery questionnaire, which the doctor will have read; it is always helpful to mention any major points again. To download the pre-surgery questionnaire here.

Will I have the opportunity to ask questions?

Yes of course, you will find that the doctor and dental surgeon are quite open to questions and will explain everything in detail.

Can my partner attend the consultation?

Yes, they are welcome to attend.

Will I need any aftercare?

No, you will need to follow the instruction given by the dentist on caring for your dentures.

What condition will I be in when I return home?

Our program is fully comprehensive, allowing patients to return home in a good physical state, ready to start returning to normal daily activities.

Can you tell me more about your facility in Belgium?

The dental implants are fitted by Dr. Lamoral in the oral clinic of our partner Hospital in Belgium which has 197 beds; and is equipped with the latest technology; and carries out surgical procedures with confidence; offering the very best medical care and attention.

The hospital is a leading specialist in oral & facial surgery. It has five operating theatres; equipped with the newest technology; an accident & emergency department; and an 8-bed intensive care facility staffed 24 hours a day with on site resident cover.

Crowns and dentures are fitted by the dental clinic situated opposite the hospital complex by the dental surgeon Dr Hauspie.

Can I bring a relative or friend?

Yes, there is a bed & breakfast facility nearby that we use especially for friends & family members.

How many people does your organisation treat a year?

Last year, we treated over 300 people for all kinds of surgery.

What type of anaesthesia is used?

The anaesthetist will discuss the type of anaesthesia used prior to surgery. If you have a preference, please state this to the anaesthetists or surgeon.

If you are undergoing general anaesthesia, you will first be put to sleep by IV medication. A mask or a breathing tube then administers an anaesthetic gas with is monitored by the anaesthetist.

What if something goes wrong?

Our partner hospital has successfully treated hundreds of our patients with no significant problems. Patients are in the safest of hands; should something such as a secondary infection occur it would manifest itself before leaving hospital and would be treated accordingly. The underlying secondary infection rate in Belgium is less than 0.5% as opposed to in excess of 10% in the UK. So far, our clients have remained free of secondary infections.

What make of implant is used?

We prefer to fit Nobel Biocare products you can checkout their web site at www.nobelbiocare.com

We try to always fit not only the best product available, but also one that has been tried and tested for a number of years.

Is there a web site for the makers?

www.nobelbiocare.com

What charges are not included?

Phone calls, accommodation for friends or family.

How do I Book?

Just inform us that you wish to proceed (+44 (0) 207 553 3421), and then together with you, we set a target date, then you confirm your travel arrangements with us.

We then dispatch a confirmation letter with the details of your treatment.

How do I Book?

Just inform us that you wish to proceed (+44 (0) 207 553 3421), and then together with you, we set a target date, then you confirm your travel arrangements with us.

We then dispatch a confirmation letter with the details of your treatment.

When do I pay and by what method?

We accept payment in €, US Dollars or £ Sterling by:

• Credit Card - Visa, Mastercard, Delta, Amex, Electron (add 3.5% surcharge).
  
  
• Direct Bank Transfer - 2 weeks before travelling.
  
  
• Cash.
  
  
• Building Society Cheque or Bankers Draft. No personal cheques accepted.
  
  
• Payment Plan, please see our Beautysure Patient Finance Page.
  

Payment by credit card or bank transfer must be made at least two weeks before travel. A building society cheque or a bankers draft can either be sent to us by post - two weeks in advance - or be handed to the surgeon. Cash may also be handed to the surgeon.

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