Dental implants are a durable, long-lasting solution for replacing one or more missing teeth. The absence of teeth can disrupt speech, eating patterns, and even one's appearance, impacting self-confidence. From a dental wellness point of view, a missing tooth has a knock on effect on the neighbouring teeth causing further issues and tooth loss down the line!

Often chosen over traditional bridges or dentures, implants provide versatile solutions. They can support a single crown, bridge, or dentures, making them suitable for individuals with a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. The type of implant solution recommended depends on individual needs and circumstances.

Improved Functionality: Dental implants restore not only the appearance of missing teeth but also their functionality. Unlike removable dentures, implants are securely anchored in the jawbone, allowing for comfortable chewing and speaking without worrying about slippage or discomfort. This enhanced functionality enables patients to enjoy a wide variety of foods and speak with confidence.

Enhanced Aesthetics: One of the most commonly reported advantages of dental implants is their ability to provide a natural-looking and seamless solution for replacing missing teeth. The prosthetic teeth attached to the implants are custom-made to match the shape, size, and colour of the patient's natural teeth, resulting in a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing smile. This improvement in appearance and feel often leads to increased self-confidence and an improved overall quality of life.

Preservation of Gum and Bone Structure: When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone can begin to deteriorate over time due to lack of stimulation. With this, the gum starts to shrink leading to areas of recession. Dental implants help prevent this bone loss by mimicking the natural tooth root and providing necessary stimulation to the jawbone. This preservation of bone structure helps maintain facial contours and prevents the sunken appearance commonly associated with tooth loss.

Durability and Longevity: With proper care and maintenance, dental implants have a high success rate and can last a very long time. Unlike traditional bridges or dentures, which may need to be replaced periodically, and damage neighbouring teeth, dental implants offer a biological solution for tooth replacement. This durability and longevity make them a cost-effective investment in long-term oral health and function.

Improved Oral Health: Your teeth are in a state of balance, with each tooth supporting the neighbouring teeth. When a tooth is lost, this balance is upset, leading to teeth over-erupting, rotating and twisting, causing teeth to misalign and get further issues, including gum and decay issues. We always say if we have to lose a tooth, try to replace it! Implants are the most biologically friendly option for missing teeth. Unlike traditional bridges, which require adjacent teeth to be shaved down to support the restoration, dental implants do not compromise the integrity of neighbouring teeth. This preservation of natural tooth structure promotes better oral health and reduces the risk of decay or damage to adjacent teeth. Additionally, because implants are easier to clean and maintain than removable dentures, they contribute to improved oral hygiene and overall oral health.

Are Dental Implants Right for You? Exploring Your Options

If you're considering dental implants at Thornbury Dental Wellness Clinic, you may have questions or seek reassurance about the procedure. With this, we offer dedicated Implant Consultations so we can explore this further. Discover more about what to expect and the available options to determine which one is right for you.

Single Implants

These are used when a person is missing just one tooth. A single implant is surgically placed into the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for a crown to replace the missing tooth. This option preserves surrounding teeth and restores natural function and aesthetics.

Multiple Implants

In cases where several adjacent teeth are missing, multiple implants may be recommended. These implants can support a bridge or individual crowns for each missing tooth. They provide stability, prevent bone loss, and offer a permanent solution for restoring a larger gap caused by multiple missing teeth.

Implant-Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges offer a robust solution for individuals with multiple missing teeth in a row. Unlike traditional bridges, which rely on adjacent healthy teeth for support, implant-supported bridges utilise dental implants as stable anchors. This approach not only avoids the need to alter healthy teeth but also helps to preserve jawbone density by stimulating bone growth. The process of receiving implant-supported bridges typically begins with the surgical placement of dental implants into the jawbone.

Over the following months, these implants undergo osseointegration, fusing with the surrounding bone tissue to provide a secure foundation. Once the implants have fully integrated, abutments are attached to the implants, serving as connectors between the implants and the prosthetic bridge. Customised impressions of the patient's mouth are then taken to create a bridge that fits precisely over the implants. The bridge consists of artificial teeth (pontics) attached to crowns, which are securely affixed to the abutments. This results in a restoration that not only looks natural but also functions like natural teeth, allowing for comfortable chewing and speaking.

Implant Retained Dentures

Implant-retained dentures, also known as implant-supported or 'clip-in' dentures, provide a solution for individuals with limited natural teeth but sufficient bone to support implants. These dentures consist of replacement teeth set on an acrylic base and attached to dental implants.

Typically, the dentures are equipped with a bar that securely clips onto the implants, enhancing stability compared to standard removable dentures. While still removable for cleaning, they offer greater security and reduce the risk of shifting or falling out while speaking or laughing.

Treatment duration for implant-retained dentures typically ranges from same day loading to four months, though it varies based on individual requirements. Initially, the implants are placed, followed by loading or a healing period before the dentures can be attached. During this interim period, patients may use a temporary denture or continue wearing their existing ones if they're in good condition.

All-on-4 and All-on-6 Implants: Advanced Solutions for Complete Tooth Replacement

We offer same-day solutions for full-mouth teeth replacement with All-on-4 or All-on-6 dental implants. All-on-4 uses four implants, while All-on-6 uses six implants to support a fixed set of prosthetic teeth. With this advanced treatment, you can regain your smile and confidence in just one day without having to endure months of waiting. With Teeth in a Day treatment, you can avoid the inconvenience of going without teeth and experience minimal impact on your daily life, speech, and diet.

If you're considering dental implant treatment, Thornbury Dental Wellness Clinic is here to assist you every step of the way. We understand that the cost of dental implant treatment can be a concern for some patients. That's why we offer flexible financing options to make quality dental care more accessible. Our team will work closely with you to explore financing solutions that fit your budget, allowing you to proceed with treatment without financial worry. With our convenient location and serving the whole of South Gloucestershire, getting the best dental implant dentist near you has never been easier.