Check-up and Digital Imaging
A six-monthly examination: intraoral check, digital X-ray if needed and a written summary of the day. A record is kept even when nothing is found; the next check-up is compared against it.
DetailsAn implant is a titanium screw placed in the jawbone in place of an extracted or lost tooth. Once it has fused with the bone, a porcelain tooth is built on it; the neighbouring teeth are left untouched.
Planning
A 3D scan measures the height and width of the bone and its distance from nerves and sinuses. If bone is lacking, a graft or sinus lift is discussed first; that is a separate stage and not every patient needs it.
Surgery
Under local anaesthetic, usually completed within 30–60 minutes. Stitches come out after a week. In the front of the mouth a temporary tooth can be fitted for appearance.
Healing and the crown
Bone integration takes about 2–3 months in the lower jaw and 3–4 in the upper. Then an impression is taken, the porcelain tooth is made and screwed or cemented in place.
Follow-up
An implant collects tartar just like a natural tooth; it is monitored with a check-up and cleaning every six months and an X-ray once a year.
This page is general information and does not replace a dental examination. Whether the treatment suits you, and the method and duration, are decided only after an intraoral examination and radiographic assessment.
After treatment
For the first 24 hours avoid hot and hard food and apply cold to the area. Smoking clearly disturbs healing; none for at least two weeks. Until the stitches are removed, keep the area clean with the prescribed mouthwash.
The information on this page is for general guidance and does not replace a dental examination. Treatment decisions are made after an intraoral examination and radiographic assessment.