Losing a tooth can have an enormous impact on your life, both psychologically and medically. You may feel self-conscious of your missing tooth when you smile, find it uncomfortable to eat your favourite foods or have started to experience physical effects such as headaches, one missing tooth can have a surprisingly big effect.
Dental implants are long-lasting tooth root replacements that simulate the root of a pre-existing tooth. They are one of the most effective and reliable methods for tooth replacements and the closest alternative to having your own teeth back.
The implant is a titanium post surgically positioned, that resembles a screw, and acts as a stable root for the new tooth. It mimics the functions of your natural teeth, seamlessly enabling activities such as chewing, talking, and laughing. The integration is so seamless that distinguishing between your natural teeth and the implant becomes virtually impossible. In addition to individual tooth replacement, implants can also provide support for fixed bridges or dentures spanning multiple gaps in your dental structure.
Typically, the implant procedure has two stages. Initially, the implant is inserted into the jaw. Subsequently, after the jaw has had time to proper heal, replacement teeth are fixed to the implant. In certain instances, there's the option to attach temporary teeth to the implant during the initial fitting process.
If you only have a single tooth gap missing, this is a far less invasive solution. Unlike bridges that may necessitate the alteration of healthy teeth, implants have no impact on the surrounding teeth. The absence of a tooth can significantly affect eating, speaking, and overall comfort. Over time, the gap can lead to changes in facial structure, with potential gum shrinkage and movement of remaining teeth. Dental implants not only reinstate your smile but also contribute significantly to enhancing your overall quality of life and self-confidence.
Being an independent tooth, a dental implant allows for care similar to that of natural teeth. Regular activities such as flossing, cleaning, and daily functions can be performed without any notable difference. We can use dental implants to provide stable and supported replacements for life, without the worry that your restoration will slip or fail.
Dental implants stay firmly in place and won’t slip when you’re eating or speaking and won’t become loose over time. This is because they are held in place by the jawbone, so you can be certain in their strength and durability.
Implants look and feel just like natural teeth. You will be able to do everything you did prior to losing your tooth, as well as show off a wonderful smile.
Dental implants are a well-established, safe, and highly effective way of replacing one or more missing teeth in any part of your mouth.
Implants help to support your facial structure and remaining natural teeth. They protect your gums and can be fitted with no adverse effect on any existing healthy teeth.
Implants use state-of-the-art digital dental technology, combined with the specialist expertise of Dr Van Staden to create the next best thing to a natural tooth.
The necessity for implants varies from person to person. Reach out to us to schedule an implant consultation, where we can assess your unique situation and discuss potential options. Our dedicated team is ready to assist you and address any enquiries you might have. Don't hesitate to get in touch—we're here to help!
You will have your initial consultation with Dr Van Staden, who has been placing implants for nearly 20 years. You will discuss exactly what you want to achieve from the procedure, and he will be able to walk you through the process and how your end results should look.
Once booked, Dr Van Staden will start the procedure by firstly inserting the implants into the jaw under local anaesthetic. You can opt to have sedation for this procedure if you would prefer.
Once the implant is in place, the gum is stitched so that it will heal over the implant. A temporary tooth may be available depending on the situation.
The bone then grows around the implant to hold it secure. This takes several months; we just advise patients to avoid chewing any hard foods around that area.
You will then return to the practice after around 3 months for placement of the final artificial tooth.
We are proud to have an outstanding record of successfully treating and caring for our implant clients.
Dr Van Staden has been confidently placing implants since 2006 and has been awarded the prestigious Diploma in Implant Dentistry from the Royal College of Surgeons, England. Derek is also a member of the ADI (the Association of Dental Implantology) and the ITI (International Team for Implantology).
He is a director for Dentinal Tubules, which provides training, continuing professional development and study clubs for dental professionals throughout the UK. This gives him access to the latest dental advancements and specialists from around the world. He has been a full member of the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry for many years.
He has passionately sought further training under the guidance of internationally renowned dentists and implantologists in the UK, US and around the world, in order to provide the best level of care for his clients.
At Christchurch Dental, we have adopted a patient-focused philosophy which means you will be listened to and not dictated to. We will get to know each other so you will feel progressively comfortable and confident with each appointment. By listening to you, giving step by step explanations and delivering outstanding dentistry we want you to know that you could not have chosen a better practice for your implant placement.
Dental implants are typically suitable for most people, provided you are generally in good health and are capable of undergoing a routine dental procedure, such as extraction. It’s beneficial to have good oral hygiene, healthy gums, and enough bone in your jaw to fit the implant. However, if you don’t have enough bone density, a bone graft may be a viable solution. It also helps if the patient is not a heavy smoker, this is because smoking can slow the healing process Your overall suitability for implant treatment will be thoroughly discussed during your initial consultation and it’s likely you will be suitable for the treatment. Dental implants are not usually recommended for younger patients with still-developing jaws.
During dental implant surgery, local anaesthetic is used to guarantee your comfort throughout the procedure, ensuring you won't feel any discomfort. Post-treatment, it's typical to feel some discomfort, but your dentist will recommend pain relief measures to effectively manage this. Remarkably, implant procedures tend to be less painful than tooth extractions, and many patients find they can resume their regular routines as early as the following day. Your wellbeing and comfort are our priorities throughout the entire process.
The whole process, from missing teeth to secure fixed replacements, can take several months. Although the implant surgery itself is a relatively brief procedure, the implant necessitates approximately 3-6 months for healing and fusion before the permanent teeth can be securely fixed into place. The treatment process can take a little longer if you require a bone graft or other procedures prior to the implant, but we know your new smile will be worth the wait!
With proper care, dental implants hold the potential to last a lifetime. This involves maintaining a meticulous brushing and flossing regimen, prioritising your overall health, and attending routine check-ups with your dentist. It's crucial to recognise that while the dental implant is engineered for long-lasting durability, the crown or bridge it sustains may need to be replaced over time due to the natural wear and tear.
No, dental implants are made to look and feel exactly like natural teeth. We will work hard to match the shape and colour of your existing teeth when creating your final fixed crown or bridge so that it blends seamlessly into your new smile.
