If you have lost a tooth, whether it be recently or some time ago or you have been told that you need a tooth out you may be considering an implant.

An implant it an artificial root (usually made from Titanium) is inserted into your jaw bone to be able to support a crown. The procedure is quick and not that dissimilar to having a tooth out and you are completely numb.

It is advisable to wait at least 12 weeks after having the tooth out before having the recommended imaging and records appointment. Here, both a 2D and 3D image will be taken of the site where an implant is going to be placed along with a scan of your teeth and some photos. These will be used to plan your implant placement.

On the day you can eat and drink as normal and take all of your medications, unless you have been told otherwise by your Dentist. You will be numbed and then the implant will be placed. You will have some stitches in place afterwards and it is recommended to take pain relief.

Approximately 12 weeks later you will return for the second stage, placing a tooth on the implant. This is done over 2 appointments.

Benefits

• Cost – Cheaper than an implant
• Can achieve good aesthetics
• Can add teeth to it with time

Disadvantages

• May be dentrimental to other teeth
• Must be removed at night
• Can remove them
• Fit will change with time as bone loss occurs due to nothing being sat within the bone

Benefits

• Permanent – does not come out
• Good Aesthetics
• Can replace multiple teeth

Disadvantages

• A tooth either side of the space will need to be prepared for a crown – this is detrimental to them, if you then lose one of these teeth the space will be bigger
• Cost – almost as much as an implant depending on how many teeth are included
• Can fail

Benefits

• Does not affect adjacent teeth
• Good longevity if well maintained
• Acts almost like your own tooth restoring your function
• Adaptable should you lose any more teeth

Disadvantages

• Cost – increased initial outlay
• Can fail