Dental implants are a way to replace missing teeth. The implant is inserted into the jawbone and is held in place with an internal screw. Once the implant is fitted, the bone which surrounds it gradually grows around it to secure it in place.

One implant can hold several replacement teeth and your dentist will carry out an assessment to decide how many individual implants you will need.

Who Can Receive Dental Implants?

If you’re an adult in good health, with a healthy mouth and gums, then you should be eligible for dental implants. Your dentist may advise against dental implants in the following circumstances:

  • You’re a smoker
  • You have received radiotherapy in your jaw area
  • You have diabetes which is not adequately controlled
  • You have gum disease

Of course, every case is different and the best thing to do is to speak to your dentist.

What Happens During The Dental Implant Procedure?

The majority of people who have dental implants will go under a local anaesthetic. This numbs the area that the implant is being inserted into and makes the procedure painless and much more comfortable.

When the anaesthetic has numbed the area of operation, your dentist will drill a small hold in your jawbone and insert the implant.

Your dentist will be able to advise you on the duration of your procedure, which can take up to several hours.

Dental Implant Aftercare

As with any procedure requiring a general anaesthetic, you may need to allow some time to rest afterwards. Once you are ready to return home, you can expect for your mouth to feel numb for a number of hours after the procedure. If your mouth feels numb, you should take particular care when consuming hot food and drink.
Once the anaesthetic has worn off, you may experience some discomfort for a few days. You may want to take some over the counter pain relief.