Treatment requirements

Patient requirements:

Patients will only be accepted for implant treatment if they maintain a high level of plaque control and good oral hygiene. There should be no medical conditions that would contraindicate the procedure and it is important to inform us of any changes arising to your general health or medical condition.

After care and maintenance:

Implants are not fit and forget – they need the same care and attention as natural teeth. On completion of treatment it will be necessary to attend a number of recall appointments to check the condition of the implant and to adjust the bite if required. Regular dental check-ups will be required along with regular hygiene maintenance appointments, as a build of plaque will cause gum problems and possible bone loss from around your implant, which could resulting in its eventual failure. On occasion there is a need to change the crowns or service the denture. The chance of this is higher in patients who grind or clench their teeth, and would be the same for implants as for all dental restorations.

Treatment planning

At Elegant Smiles Dental Studio we pride ourselves on the extensive planning that goes into every case. This is crucial to best avoid unforeseeable complications during the surgical stage of treatment and the long term performance of the implant.

At an initial consultation, we discuss your requirements and determine whether alternative options such as dentures or fixed bridges may be more suitable to replace your lost teeth. We will also investigate the condition of your jaws and teeth to be satisfied of good oral hygiene and healthy dental state.

We clearly explain the cost of your treatment and make you aware of any risks involved. For example smoking, some medical conditions and certain medicines can reduce the chances of success.

Frequently asked questions

Costs? The initial cost of implant treatments vary depending on the complexity of each case: how many implants are needed and if bone grafting is required.

What are the risks? Depending on medical or other conditions of each patient, potential risk factors may vary. Every surgical procedure carries potential risks and these will be discussed with you prior to treatment.

Is surgery painful? Dental implants are generally inserted under local anaesthetic.

Am I too old/young for implants? As soon as the jaw has stopped growing it is possible to insert implants. In young patients, dental implants can therefore only be used once their jaw bones are fully developed. At the other end of the spectrum, there is no age limit, given of course that the patient does not display any significant medical risk factors.