The whole procedure takes only a few minutes for
a single tooth and up to an hour for multiple implants.
Implants have many uses within the dental profession.
Treatment can involve anything from placing a single
implant to placing a number of implants in order to
support a bridge.
It is at the discretion of the individual and how
they feel about their teeth that determines the type
of treatment they choose, for example, it may be that
you have just a small gap in your mouth but one that
worries you greatly. A bridge or partial denture may
resolve your problem however some people would prefer
something more permanent.If this is the case, speak
to your dentist about implants.
There are also people who do not want implants for
cosmetic reasons but who need implants to help them
maintain functionality. People who have not had any
teeth for some time often approach their dentist because
their dentures no longer fit. In this case, implants
can be used to hold a denture in place.
Consultation
To determine whether you are a suitable candidate
for dental implants, the surgeon will need to take
x-rays. This will help them decide how much room they
have to place the implant and they can then start
planning your treatment. Depending on how long the
site has been without a tooth, the surgeon may find
that there isn't enough room to house an implant.
This is when something called a 'bone graft' or 'bone
augmentation' is necessary. Your dentist/surgeon will
explain the procedure & implications to you before
commencing any treatment.
Sedation
The whole procedure really isn't that bad, however
due to the length of time the procedure can take and
because we understand many patients would prefer to
not know what is going on we offer sedation. The surgeon
will explain the procedure to you at your consultation
and you can decide at this point or closer to the
time if you wish to be sedated during the process.
On the day of your procedure the surgeon will once
again explain the process to make sure you and your
companion are happy with what they are going to do.
It is required that you bring a companion with you
because if you are having sedation it is a legal requirement
and even if you are not being sedated you may still
feel slightly tired.
After Treatment
Sometimes you will be provided with
some anti-biotics beforehand and sometimes you may
receive both AB's & Ibuprofen to take over the
duration. The use of anti-biotics is self-explanatory
- the Ibuprofen is used to help with any swelling
that may occur following surgery.
The wound must be kept clean for
the next 7-10 days, after which your dentist/surgeon
will wish to review you, take an x-ray and remove
any sutures.
If at anytime you are concerned
following surgery, please feel free to telephone the
Practice and request to speak with your implant surgeon.
After approximately 3 months of healing
time and several reviews later, impressions are taken
and the technician can start making your new 'tooth'.
A short visit is then required a couple of weeks later
to fit your new crown, andeverything is finished.
Implant Systems
Currently we use Astra Tech and Nobel Biocare.
For advanced cases that require in-depth case planning,
we use Simplant or NobelGuide. Raj Wadhwani is also
experienced in the use of Straumann, Frialit, Hi-Tec,
3i and Lifecore implant systems.
