What are implants?
Implants are one way of replacing missing teeth. They feel like normal teeth but are not subject to tooth decay.

A post is planted in the jaw bone to support a replacement tooth. This acts like the root of a natural tooth. Implants can also be used to support fixed bridges or dentures.

Implant treatment normally has two stages. First, the implant is placed in the jaw. Then, when the jaw has healed, replacement teeth are attached to the implant. In some situations it is possible for temporary teeth to be attached to an implant at the time of fitting.

Would implants be right for me?
First, you should decide whether implants could be right for you. See the Bicon web site for further details (this is the main implant system used by Andrew Hawker at the practice.) Have a look at the Bicon patient video. Andrew Hawker also uses the mini implant system from 3M/Espe to stabilise loose or ill fitting dentures. See the 3M mini-implant website for patient testimonials and further information.

Contact us to arrange an implant consultation and discussion and we will let you know the possibilities. You can do this by e-mailing us or phoning 01202 872614. Our team will be only too happy to help you with any questions you may have. If you decide to go ahead, this is what will happen.

• Implants are put into holes in the jaw with a local anaesthetic. You can opt to have sedation for this procedure also.
• The implant is screwed or pushed in and the gum is stitched so that it heals over the implant
• Under the gum. the bone then grows round the implant to hold it firm. This takes several months.

Implants usually have two sections - the post in the jaw and an extension that is added later when the post is secure. Attaching the extension needs a small cut in the gum above the implant. You might have more than one implant. The replacement teeth might be fixed permanently (like a crown or bridge) or attached in a way which lets you remove them for cleaning (like a denture).

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