Dr David Veige and Dr Greg Cadman both place dental implants at The Smile Spa, Stockton. Dr Veige graduated with merit from the University of Manchester with a Masters of Science degree in Implant Dentistry and since has placed hundreds of implants. He is a member of the ITI (International Team for Implantology) an organisation focused on advancing the science of implant dentistry. David uses the Astra Implant System. To find out more about the Astra system, please click here. Dr Cadman is experienced in cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry and Quick Straight Teeth orthodontics. He has undertaken the Implant Diploma from the faculty of General Dental Practitioners and is a mentor for training dentists in dental implantology having placed over 750 implants since he began implant placement over 8 years ago. Greg uses the Straumann Implant System. To find out a little more about the Straumann system, click here.
Both our Implant Dentists offer free consultations, so you can find out if you are suitable for implants without any cost.
The main benefits of dental implants are:
- Dental implants restore proper chewing function so you can enjoy foods previously too “difficult” to eat.
- You feel confident that your implanted teeth won’t move or loosen.
- Dental Implants are the closest thing to the look, feel and function of your natural teeth.
- Dental Implants do not provide damaging pressure on remaining natural teeth as with dentures .
- Eliminate irritated and painful gums.
- Dental Implants improve your speech by eliminating or reducing the “fullness” of full or partial dentures.
- Dental implants help stop the progressive bone loss and shrinkage of your jawbone by “mimicking” the roots of natural teeth.
- Dental implants are clinically proven with a success rate in excess of 98-99%.
- Much more natural and longer term option to 'false teeth'
- Dental Implants can help improve gummy smiles as well as those with gaps or missing teeth
Are dental implants safe? How long will they last?
Dental Implants are a well-established, tried-and-tested treatment. 90 per cent of modern implants last for at least 15 years.
Can dental implants always be used to replace missing teeth?
It depends on the bone density in your jaw and the health of your gums. At the consultation our implant dentists will assess the health of your gums, the density of your bone and in some cases, you may require a CT Scan. The CT scan provides a 3D image of all regions of the upper and/or lower jaw from which precise measurements can be taken for pre-operative treatment planning. In some cases the CT scan may also be used to evaluate the results of bone grafting procedures prior to placing implants.
Can I have an implant placed straight away?
Sometimes treatment is required before you are ready for implants. Implants survive best in a healthy mouth. Tooth decay or gum problems need to be corrected before implants are placed to give them the best chance of success. Types of treatment you may require:
- Gum Health: This may involve the use of special brushing methods, flossing tooth picks and small “bottle” brushes. Some gum treatment may be needed.
- Removal of unsavable Teeth: Despite advances in modern dentistry some teeth may have reached a stage where no treatment can save them. It is often best to remove them at an early stage, particularly if you are thinking of having implants so as to prevent further bone loss.
- Treat or remove all pre-existing oral infection wherever possible. The success of implant treatment can be seriously affected by infections resulting from failed root canal treatments or untreated gum disease or nerve problems in sites adjacent to implants. Long-standing infections of the soft-tissues beneath dentures can also adversely affect healing at the various surgical stages.
Do dental implants hurt?
Placing the implants requires a small operation which can be carried out under local anaesthetic, with sedation or with Nu Calm. You will not feel any pain at the time, but you may feel some discomfort during the week following the surgery. The after-effects of having implants placed are usually mild and may include slight bruising, dull ache and swelling. The effects vary, depending on the number of implants placed.
When choosing a date for implant placement, avoid significant social engagements and work commitments for at least a week after. This is just to be on the safe side. Taking time off work is not usually necessary.
Can I have the new teeth fitted straight away?
The dental implants need to bond (integrate) with the bone after they have been placed which usually takes at least 3 months. If you are having one, two or three teeth replaced, you will have a temporary restoration in the meantime. If you have complete dentures, then you can wear them throughout the healing period once they have been adjusted after the surgery.
How long does treatment take?
This depends on the complexity of the treatment. Initially there is a planning stage which may last a month or so. Then there may be some time spent on such preparatory procedures as improving gum health, removing any unsavable teeth and growing bone. This may take thing from a few weeks to many months.
After the implants are placed they are left to settle in place from three to six months. The final fitting of crowns or bridges or the attaching of dentures to the implants takes a month or two. The time depends on your individual situation.
It is important that neither the patient nor the implant provider attempt to rush the treatment or try to advance the various stages faster than the time required for complete healing and maturation of the bone and soft-tissues.
Even treatment that is well-planned and executed can fail as a result of moving too quickly from stage to stage. If you do not have the time available, then it may be more sensible to consider conventional forms of dentistry which can be completed more rapidly.
We can sometimes offer same day implants for more straight forward cases. These are indirect implants/direct placements so ask about whether you could be suitable for this option when you come to see us.
Are the teeth difficult to clean?
Cleaning around the teeth attached to the dental implants is no more difficult than cleaning natural teeth. However, there may be areas that will require extra cleaning and you’ll be shown how to clean the implants at home.
If I had gum disease when I had my own teeth, will I get it with the teeth attached to the implants?
Yes, if you don’t care for the implants well enough. If you keep your gums clean and have regular hygiene appointments, this will prevent gum disease returning.
Can I take the teeth out if they are fixed to dental implants?
Most artificial teeth attached to implants can only be placed and removed by the dentist. However, if you have complete dentures fixed to the implants by bars, then you’ll be able to take them out for cleaning.
Do I have an implant for each missing tooth?
No, unless you’re only having a single tooth replaced. Normally, five or six dental implants are used to replace all the teeth in one jaw, as each implant can usually support two teeth. For a few missing teeth, two or three dental implants may be used.
What happens if the implant does not fuse to the bone?
This happens very rarely. If the implant becomes loose during the healing period or just after, then it is easily removed and healed.
How much do dental implants cost?
The cost of implants varies from patient to patient, but that said, a single tooth implant, with no complications starts from £2179 to book your FREE consultation call 01642 674888 or email [email protected]
