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Why implants?
The use of implants allows several desirable treatment options
to become possible. Implants can be used to replace missing teeth
without the need to drill adjacent teeth as for a conventional
bridge. Implants can also enable a fixed bridge to become possible
where previously a removable denture was the only option.
What is needed?
General health must be good. Smoking adversely affects healing
throughout the body, and especially so in the mouth.
Therefore, smoking should be stopped or drastically reduced.
Oral hygiene and dental health must be good. A special dental
x-ray will reveal if there is sufficient bone available for the
implant(s) and if it is of good enough quality. If there is not
enough bone present, there are well established techniques to
increase the amount of available bone, prior to the implant placement.
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What
is involved?
Surgical placement of implant(s) needs an appointment of
an hour or more.
The healing period in the bone may take 4-6 months.
A follow up x-ray will reveal suitable healing and integration.
A minor procedure will prepare the implant for the impressions
and fit of the crowns or overdenture.
The construction of the prosthesis usually takes two weeks
or so.
Implants need particular cleaning techniques which differ
from those for natural teeth. Good oral hygiene is critical
for long term success. |
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