Oral implants have become a real showcase for dentistry over the last 5 years, which is strange as they are not a new idea. They haven’t changed that much in the last decade, but dental implants Clapham? are now more common in our clinic. So, why are so many people seeking out oral implants when there are a plethora of other options?
Restorative dentistry
Oral implants are an important element of the restorative procedures that we offer. A wide variety of techniques and tools are used in restorative dentistry, but always with the overall goal of returning something that has been lost both in terms of function like a strong bite, or aesthetics such as a gap-free smile. As implants offer both, it is easy to see why they are so popular.
Non-implant options
A regular oral prosthetic is usually a false tooth or teeth that closely resemble the teeth that were lost due to accident or decay. When in use, they will need to be adhered to or braced by surrounding natural teeth. A bridge requires two healthy teeth to be wired to and a crown needs to be built up over the core of a tooth, with the root undamaged to support the prosthesis.
It’s this lack of support in denture users that results in the movement and rubbing that can make dentures unpleasant or irritating. As implants require neither surrounding teeth nor a natural root to function, they are often regarded as superior by patients.
How do implants work?
Oral implants come in three parts, the first being the titanium rod which is placed into the jawbone and is referred to as the ‘implant’. On top of this is a false tooth, usually made from a mix of porcelain and polymers. This is held in place by a connector which locks the two pieces together. This allows the false tooth to be added later after the implant has fully set in place and also allows the tooth to be disconnected from the implant and replaced if damaged, without having to remove the implant from the jaw.
The maintenance of implants versus non-implanted prosthetics
Post implantation and fitting, there are significant differences in the upkeep of your prosthetics depending on whether they are implanted or not. Non-implants can be removed and are often cleaned outside of the mouth, using a denture cleaner or an overnight soaking. With removable prosthetics, there is a chance of rubbing and adhesive/padded stripes may have to be changed daily to minimise soreness and rubbing, which can be costly.
The daily maintenance of dental implants Clapham? is the same as your natural teeth; they need to be brushed twice daily and checked in the clinic every 6 months.
What is the best option?
There are pros and cons to both; although the fitting is simpler with non-implants, the long-term maintenance is much easier with implants. Implants are also not suitable for everyone and there are some pre-existing health conditions and prescription medications which would exclude you from receiving dental implants Clapham. You would have to speak with a member of our clinical team to assess your suitability.
