An implant is a false metal root screwed into the jawbone, to provide a strong foundation for fixed
(permanent) or removable replacement teeth that are made to match your natural teeth.

Anyone! If you’re missing one or more (or even all!) of your teeth, you could be a candidate for
implants. If one or a few of the teeth are missing, implants in conjunction with a crown or bridge
can replace those teeth and function as normal teeth without losing more bone and being subject
to decay. If all or most of your teeth are missing, we can place implants to anchor a loose
denture. Sometimes, if you have already experienced some bone loss, we can grow and add more bone to create a better site for your implants. A personalised consultation with Dr Paton will help determine your individual needs.

Dental implants could be your answer, if you’re looking for:

• Natural appearance.
  Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth, becoming a permanent solution to
  missing teeth after they have fused with your bone.
• More comfort.
  Because implants become part of you, you’ll no longer have to worry about the
  discomfort of removable dentures.
• Improved speech.
  Dentures can sometimes slip within your mouth, causing you to mumble or slur your
  words. Dental implants allow you to speak without worrying that your teeth might slip.
• A self-esteem boost.
  Dental implants can give you back your smile and help you feel better about yourself.
• Better oral health.
  Dental implants don’t require reducing other teeth, as a tooth-supported bridge does.
  Because nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant, more of your own teeth are
  left intact, improving long-term oral health.
• Easier eating.
  Dental implants function like your own teeth, which means you can eat your favourite
  foods with confidence and without pain.
• A durable tooth restoration.
  Implants are very durable and with good care, can last a lifetime.

Dental research has consistently shown that implants, which have been placed in good bone can
last for the rest of your lifetime. However, some implants can fail if the quality of the bone wasn’t
good, if there was too much bite stress for too few implants, but such cases are rare.

Probably not! In fact, dental implants look and feel so natural that you may even forget you have
them. We understand that your confidence about your teeth affects how you feel about yourself,
both personally and professionally. If you hide your smile because of missing teeth; if your
dentures don’t feel secure; or you have difficulty chewing, dental implants can help you smile,
speak and eat again with comfort and confidence.

In the first stage, your implant, which looks like a screw or cylinder, is surgically placed into your
jaw. Over the next three months, the bone bonds with your implant to form a solid foundation for
your artificial tooth. During this time, we will provide a temporary tooth replacement option you
can wear over the implant site.

Sometimes, a second step of the procedure is necessary to uncover the implant and attach an
extension. This small metal post, called an abutment, completes the foundation on which your
new tooth will be placed. We then allow your gums to heal for a couple of weeks following this
procedure.

Lastly, a replacement tooth called a crown will be created for you by your dentist and attached to
the abutment. After a short time, you will experience restored confidence in your smile and your
ability to chew and speak. We think that because dental implants are so natural-looking and
feeling, you may forget you were ever missing a tooth.