Implant-retained dentures offer several advantages over traditional removable dentures. Here are some key benefits:

More stable and secure than complete dentures alone –  no more embarrassing moments caused by loose dentures!

Better ability to bite and chew on a more secure foundation - enjoy your food once again

Removable - Making the easier to clean and maintain

Cost effective - especially when you have an exiting denture that you are otherwise happy with.

Implants help to preserve the remaining bone in your jaws -which would otherwise have been lost with complete dentures alone

Minimises wrinkles around the face by restoring lost lip, cheek and facial support

Read our article - The advantages and disadvantages of dental implants for more information.

Implant-retained dentures offer numerous benefits, but it's essential to consider potential drawbacks before making a decision:
Despite these drawbacks, many individuals find implant-retained dentures to be a worthwhile investment in their oral health and quality of life. Consulting with a qualified dentist can provide personalised guidance based on individual circumstances.

Cost: While effective, implant-retained dentures can be costly due to the need for implants and surgical procedures. Patients should weigh the long-term benefits against the upfront expense.

Surgical Risks: The implant placement process involves surgery, carrying risks like infection, nerve damage, or tissue injury. Patients should understand these potential complications before proceeding.

Healing Time: Osseointegration, the fusion of implants with the jawbone, requires a healing period. This can mean several months of wearing temporary dentures or going without teeth in the implant area.

Bone Resorption: Despite preserving bone better than traditional dentures, implant-retained dentures can still lead to bone loss over time due to lack of natural tooth roots stimulating the jawbone.

Maintenance Needs: Implant-retained dentures demand regular maintenance, including diligent oral hygiene and routine dental visits. Neglecting care can increase the risk of complications like peri-implantitis.

Candidate Suitability: Not everyone is an ideal candidate for implant-retained dentures due to factors like inadequate bone density or certain medical conditions. A thorough assessment by a dental professional is necessary.

Potential for Failure: While rare, implant failure can occur due to various reasons, including implant fracture, peri-implantitis, or issues with denture attachment. Patients should be aware of these possibilities.

Despite these drawbacks, many individuals find implant-retained dentures to be a worthwhile investment in their oral health and quality of life. Consulting with a qualified dentist can provide personalised guidance based on individual circumstances.

Read our article - The advantages and disadvantages of dental implants for more information.

The longevity of dental implants can vary depending on several factors, including individual oral health, maintenance habits, and lifestyle factors. However, with proper care and maintenance, dental implants have the potential to last for many years or even a lifetime.

Here are some key factors that can influence the lifespan of dental implants:

Bone Integration: Successful osseointegration, the process by which the implant fuses with the jawbone, is crucial for the stability and longevity of dental implants. Implants that integrate well with the bone are more likely to have long-term success.

Oral Hygiene: Good oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and routine dental check-ups, are essential for maintaining the health of dental implants and surrounding tissues. Proper oral care helps prevent peri-implantitis (inflammation around the implant) and other complications that can affect implant longevity.

Overall Health: Systemic health factors such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and smoking can affect the success of dental implant treatment. Patients with well-controlled medical conditions and healthy lifestyle habits may have better outcomes and longer-lasting implants.

Implant Quality: The quality of the implant materials, design, and fabrication can influence the longevity of dental implants. High-quality implants made from biocompatible materials such as titanium are more durable and resistant to corrosion over time.

Maintenance: Regular dental check-ups and maintenance visits are important for monitoring the health and stability of dental implants. Your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend periodic assessments and professional cleanings to ensure the long-term success of your implants.

Implant Loading: Implants that are subjected to excessive forces, such as teeth grinding (bruxism) or chewing on hard objects, may be at higher risk of complications or failure. Avoiding habits that put undue stress on the implants can help prolong their lifespan.

While dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution for tooth replacement, they are not indestructible, and complications can occur over time. Some factors, such as natural wear and tear, changes in oral anatomy, or trauma, may necessitate implant maintenance, repair, or replacement over the years. Overall, the lifespan of dental implants can vary from patient to patient, studies show patients that maintain good levels of oral hygiene can achieve 10 year success rates of 90% and 80% after 20 year. With proper care and attention, dental implants can provide durable and reliable tooth replacement for many years, offering improved oral function, aesthetics, and quality of life.

In the UK, dental implants are available on the NHS (National Health Service) in certain circumstances, but the criteria for eligibility are typically strict. Generally, the NHS provides dental treatment that is clinically necessary to maintain good oral health rather than for cosmetic purposes. As a result, dental implants on the NHS are usually reserved for cases where there is a clinical need, such as:

1. Severe bone loss in the jaw, which affects the stability of dentures or causes difficulty with chewing and speaking.
2. Patients with congenital conditions or trauma that have led to missing teeth and significant functional impairment.
3. Specific medical conditions or treatments (such as head and neck cancer treatment) that necessitate dental implants for functional rehabilitation.

The decision to provide dental implants on the NHS is made on a case-by-case basis following assessment by a dentist or specialist. At Zental, we do not offer NHS services but would be happy to discuss private treatment, which provides more options in terms of materials used, treatment timing, and aesthetics. However, private treatment typically involves higher costs compared to NHS treatment.

If we are converting your existing lower denture on 2 lower implants then this would typically cost in the region of £2500

If we are making a new dentures on 4 implants then the typical cost is in the region of £5995.

We have relationships with several finance providers and would be happy to assist you with your finance application. We offer 0% finance packages subject to terms and conditions. Typically our terms are between 12-60 months. Please contact us to speak to one of our treatment co-ordinators, who would be more than happy to go through all the options with you.

Visit our finance page to calculate if finance is an affordable solution for you.

Choosing the right dental implant specialist is essential for ensuring the success and longevity of your dental implant treatment. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a dental implant specialist:

Qualifications and Credentials:

- Look for a dental implant specialist who has the necessary qualifications, training, and credentials to perform implant surgery. This may include a degree in dentistry, specialised training in implantology, and certification in oral surgery or periodontics.

- Research the specialist's educational background, professional affiliations, and any additional certifications or credentials they may hold in implant dentistry.

Experience and Expertise:

- Seek out a dental implant specialist who has extensive experience and expertise in placing dental implants, particularly in complex cases such as All-on-4 implants.

- Ask about the specialist's track record of success with dental implant procedures, including the number of implants they have placed and their patient satisfaction and failure rates.

- Inquire about the specialist's experience with All-on-4 implants specifically and their familiarity with the latest techniques and advancements in implant dentistry.

Reputation and Reviews:

- Research the reputation of the dental implant specialist by reading online reviews, testimonials, and patient feedback. Look for positive reviews and endorsements from satisfied patients who have undergone treatment with the specialist.

- Consider asking for recommendations from friends, family members, or your general dentist who may have experience with dental implant specialists in your area.

Technology and Facilities:

- Choose a dental implant specialist who uses state-of-the-art technology and modern facilities to perform implant surgery. Advanced imaging techniques such as cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) can enhance the precision and accuracy of implant placement.

- Visit us to assess the cleanliness, organisation, and overall atmosphere of the practice.

Communication and Patient Care:

- Evaluate the communication style and bedside manner of the dental implant specialist. Choose a specialist who takes the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and explain the treatment process in detail.

- Assess the level of personalised care and attention provided by the specialist and their team. A compassionate and patient-focused approach can make the dental implant journey more comfortable and reassuring.

Cost and Financing Options:

- Explore financing options or payment plans to make treatment more affordable.

- Compare the cost of treatment with the specialist to other providers near you, taking into account factors such as experience, expertise, and the quality of care provided. It is worth mentioning that cost difference can be substantial due to the brand of implant system and materials being used, the need for sedation or grafting and the laboratory being used to produce both temporary and final bridges.

Ultimately, choosing a dental implant specialist is a personal decision that should be based on factors such as qualifications, experience, reputation, and communication style. By carefully evaluating these factors and conducting thorough research, you can select a specialist who is well-suited to meet your individual needs and provide you with exceptional dental implant care.

The level of pain experienced during the dental implant procedure can vary from person to person and depends on several factors, including individual pain tolerance, the complexity of the procedure, and the use of sedation. However, many patients report minimal discomfort during the implant placement process.

Here's a breakdown of what to expect in terms of pain during different stages of the dental implant procedure:

During Implant Placement: The surgical placement of the dental implant involves making an incision in the gum tissue and drilling into the jawbone to insert the implant fixture. While this may sound intimidating, most patients experience little to no pain during the procedure due to the use of local anesthesia to numb the surgical area. At Zental, we offer comfort sedation options to help patients feel more relaxed and comfortable during the procedure.

Post-Operative Discomfort: After the implant placement, it's common to experience some degree of discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding in the days following the procedure. Your dentist or oral surgeon will typically prescribe pain medications to manage any discomfort. Applying ice packs to the outside of the face can also help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.

Healing Phase: As the implant integrates with the jawbone (a process called osseointegration), some patients may experience mild soreness or discomfort in the surrounding gum tissue. This discomfort is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain medications and tends to diminish as the healing process progresses.

Overall, while some discomfort is normal during and after the dental implant procedure, it is typically manageable with appropriate pain management techniques and subsides relatively quickly. If you have concerns about pain or discomfort associated with dental implant surgery, be sure to discuss them with your dentist or oral surgeon. They can provide personalised recommendations and address any questions or anxieties you may have about the procedure.

The failure rate of dental implants are low, with success rates ranging from 90% to over 95% in various studies within 10 years and 80% within 20 years. The rate of failure is unique to each patient, meticulous surgical techniques, and adherence to post-operative care guidelines contribute to the success of dental implant treatment. While complications such as implant failure, infection, or peri-implantitis can occur, they are relatively uncommon and can often be managed with appropriate intervention. With careful planning and regular follow-up, dental implants offer a reliable and effective solution for restoring missing teeth and improving oral health.

At Zental, we are a leading UK dental implant dentist and are proud to have very high success rates!

Dental implant failure can occur due to various factors, including:

Poor Osseointegration: Insufficient integration of the implant with the surrounding bone (osseointegration) can lead to implant instability and failure. Factors such as inadequate bone density or quality, surgical trauma, or infection can impair osseointegration.

Infection: Peri-implantitis, an inflammatory condition affecting the tissues surrounding the implant, can occur due to bacterial infection. Poor oral hygiene, plaque accumulation, or pre-existing periodontal disease increase the risk of peri-implantitis and implant failure.

Smoking: Smoking impairs healing and reduces blood flow to the gums and jawbone, increasing the risk of implant failure. Smokers have a higher incidence of peri-implantitis, bone loss, and implant complications compared to non-smokers.

Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or uncontrolled systemic diseases can compromise healing and increase the risk of implant failure. Patients with medical conditions that affect bone metabolism or immune function may have a higher risk of implant-related complications.

Poor Surgical Technique: Improper implant placement, inadequate bone preparation, or surgical errors can compromise the stability and success of dental implants. Meticulous surgical technique and proper case selection are essential for achieving optimal outcomes.

Trauma: Physical trauma or excessive forces applied to the implant, such as teeth grinding (bruxism) or biting on hard objects, can lead to implant failure or mechanical complications. Occlusal adjustments or nightguards may be recommended to protect implants from excessive stress.

Implant Overloading: Excessive forces or premature loading of the implant before osseointegration is complete can lead to implant failure. Proper healing and integration are necessary to ensure the long-term stability and success of dental implants.

Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate oral hygiene practices, including infrequent brushing, flossing, or neglecting professional cleanings, can result in plaque accumulation, gum inflammation, and peri-implantitis. Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for preventing implant-related complications and preserving implant health.

Allergic Reactions: Rarely, patients may experience allergic reactions or hypersensitivity to implant materials such as titanium or components of the implant system. Proper allergy testing and selection of biocompatible materials are necessary to minimise the risk of implant-related reactions.

Systemic Factors: Age, hormonal changes, medication use, and genetic predisposition can influence implant success and healing. Individual patient factors should be carefully assessed and considered when planning implant treatment.

Overall, while dental implants have high success rates, the risk of complications and failure exists. Proper patient selection, meticulous treatment planning, and adherence to post-operative care guidelines are essential for minimising the risk of implant failure and maximising long-term implant success. Regular dental check-ups and maintenance visits are also critical for monitoring implant health and detecting potential issues early.

Yes, failed dental implants can often be replaced with new implants, offering patients a second chance at restoring their smiles and oral function. The process of replacing a failed dental implant involves careful evaluation, surgical removal if necessary, and placement of a new dental implant in the same location. By addressing the underlying reasons for the initial implant failure and utilising advanced techniques such as bone grafting, dentists can help patients achieve successful outcomes with replacement implants. With proper care and maintenance, replacement dental implants can provide durable and reliable tooth replacement, enhancing both oral health and quality of life.

After dental implant surgery, it's essential to follow your dentist or oral surgeon's instructions for post-operative care to ensure proper healing and successful osseointegration (fusion of the implant with the jawbone). Generally, the timeline for returning to a normal diet can vary depending on individual healing and the specific instructions provided by your dental professional. However, here's some general guidance:

Immediate Post-Operative Period: In the immediate aftermath of dental implant surgery, your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend a soft or liquid diet to allow the surgical site to heal without disruption. This typically lasts for the first few days to a week following surgery.

Gradual Transition: As healing progresses and any swelling or discomfort subsides, you can gradually reintroduce firmer or chewier foods into your diet. Start with soft foods that require minimal chewing, such as mashed potatoes, yogurt, smoothies, and soups.

Avoid Hard or Crunchy Foods: During the initial healing period, it's essential to avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that could put excessive pressure on the implant site or dislodge the surgical site. Examples include nuts, seeds, hard candies, and tough meats.

Follow-up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your dental professional, who will monitor your healing progress and provide guidance on when it's safe to resume a normal diet. They may also recommend dietary modifications based on your individual healing timeline.

Maintain Oral Hygiene: Throughout the healing process, maintain excellent oral hygiene by gently brushing and rinsing as directed by your dentist. Proper oral care helps prevent infection and promotes healing around the implant site.

Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any discomfort or sensitivity when eating, and avoid foods that cause pain or irritation around the implant site. If you experience any unusual symptoms or concerns, contact your dental professional for guidance.

Remember, the healing timeline can vary from person to person, so it's essential to follow your dentist's recommendations and listen to your body's cues during the recovery process. By following post-operative instructions and gradually reintroducing foods into your diet, you can typically resume normal eating habits within a few weeks to a couple of months after dental implant surgery.

At Zental, your comfort is our main priority. We offer several comfort treatments to make your surgical procedure more comfortable. Our surgeons will discuss the most suitable comfort treatment options for your procedure. We have some fo the leading sedation specialists in the UK and specialise in the most complex of cases.

‍

While dental implants are a highly effective solution for many patients with missing teeth, there are certain individuals who may not be suitable candidates for dental implant treatment. Factors that may affect a patient's suitability for dental implants include:

Insufficient Bone Density: Adequate bone volume and density are necessary to support the dental implants. Patients with significant bone loss in the jawbone may require bone grafting procedures to augment the bone before implant placement.

Untreated Periodontal Disease: Periodontal (gum) disease can compromise the health of the gums and surrounding tissues, increasing the risk of implant failure. Patients with active periodontal disease may need to undergo periodontal treatment and achieve stable periodontal health before considering dental implant placement.

Uncontrolled Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or immune deficiencies may impair healing and increase the risk of implant-related complications. Patients with poorly controlled medical conditions may need to stabilise their health before undergoing implant treatment.

Smoking and Tobacco Use: Smoking and tobacco use can impair healing, reduce blood flow to the gums and jawbone, and increase the risk of implant failure. Smokers are advised to quit smoking before undergoing implant treatment to improve implant success rates.

Pregnancy: Pregnant women may be advised to postpone dental implant treatment until after childbirth due to hormonal changes and potential risks to fetal development. It is generally recommended to avoid elective dental procedures during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary.

Young Age: Dental implants are typically not recommended for children or adolescents whose jawbones are still developing. However, implants may be considered for young adults once jawbone growth is complete.

Certain Medications: Some medications, such as bisphosphonates used to treat osteoporosis, may affect bone metabolism and healing, increasing the risk of implant-related complications. Patients taking these medications should discuss their suitability for dental implant treatment with their healthcare provider.

Active Cancer Treatment: Patients undergoing active cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy to the head or neck region, may have compromised immune function and impaired healing. Dental implant treatment may be deferred until after completion of cancer therapy.

Psychological Considerations: Patients with severe dental anxiety, or psychological conditions that may impact their ability to comply with post-operative care instructions may prefer not to embark with dental implant treatment.

Overall, the decision to undergo dental implant treatment should be based on a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified dentist or oral surgeon, taking into account the patient's oral health status, medical history, and treatment goals. By carefully assessing individual needs and considerations, the dental team can determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each patient.

Implant-retained dentures offer a stable and durable solution for patients with missing teeth. The criteria for implant-retained dentures typically include:

Sufficient Bone Density: Patients must have adequate bone density in the jawbone to support the placement of dental implants. If bone loss has occurred, bone grafting may be necessary to augment the bone before implant placement.

Good Oral Health: Patients should have good oral health, free from active gum disease or untreated dental infections. Any existing oral health issues should be addressed before implant placement to ensure the long-term success of the treatment.

Overall Health Status: Patients should be in good overall health and free from medical conditions that may complicate surgery or impair healing. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or untreated cancer may affect the suitability of implant treatment.

Commitment to Oral Hygiene: Patients must be committed to maintaining excellent oral hygiene habits, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. Proper oral care is essential for the long-term success of implant-retained dentures.

Realistic Expectations: Patients should have realistic expectations about the outcomes of implant treatment, including the time frame for treatment, potential risks, and limitations. Open communication with the dental provider is essential to ensure patient satisfaction.

Smoking Cessation: Smoking can negatively impact the success of implant treatment by impairing healing and increasing the risk of implant failure. Patients who smoke may be advised to quit or reduce smoking before undergoing implant surgery.

Financial Considerations: Patients should consider the financial aspect of implant treatment, as it may involve significant costs. Discussing treatment options, insurance coverage, and financing options with the dental provider can help address any concerns related to cost.

By meeting these criteria, patients can maximise the likelihood of successful outcomes with implant-retained dentures. Working closely with our skilled dental professionals ensures that the treatment plan is tailored to the individual needs and goals of each patient.

Bone grafting is required in implant surgery when there is either a deficiency in the quality and/or quantity of bone as assessed from a CBCT scan. In such cases supplementary bone particles are used to support, strengthen and supplement the missing voids in the jaw bone present whilst the implant is placed. This bone grafting material is usually derived with either a) bovine, b) Human or c) synthetic sources. Bone grafting is carried out in approx. 50% of all implant placements and can either be done 3-4 months prior to the surgical implant placement (in severe cases) or at the same time as the placement of the implant (in simpler cases).

There are certain situations in which bone grafting will almost always be required and these are for immediate dental Implants and Sinus lifts.

Speeding up dental bone graft healing is crucial for successful dental implantation. Here are some strategies that can help accelerate the healing process:

Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide specific post-operative instructions tailored to your procedure. Follow these instructions carefully, including any recommendations for oral hygiene, diet, and activity restrictions.

Manage Discomfort: Take any prescribed pain medications as directed to manage discomfort and reduce inflammation. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also be recommended, but always consult your dentist or surgeon before taking any medication.

Maintain Oral Hygiene: Keeping the surgical site clean is essential for preventing infection and promoting healing. Follow your dentist's instructions for oral hygiene, which may include gentle brushing and rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash.

Avoid Disturbing the Graft Site: Avoid touching or disturbing the graft site with your tongue or fingers. Be cautious when eating to prevent food particles from getting lodged in the surgical area.

Quit Smoking: Smoking can impair blood flow and delay healing. If you smoke, quitting or at least reducing smoking can significantly improve healing outcomes.

Nutritious Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support bone health, such as calcium, vitamin D, vitamin C, and protein. Consider incorporating foods like dairy products, leafy greens, citrus fruits, lean meats, and nuts.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, which is essential for overall health and optimal healing.

Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption, as they can interfere with healing and may increase the risk of complications.

Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your dentist or oral surgeon. They will monitor your healing progress and address any concerns or complications promptly.

Remember to consult with your dentist or oral surgeon for personalised advice and recommendations tailored to your specific situation. They can provide guidance based on the type of bone graft performed and your overall oral health.

A sinus lift, or sinus augmentation, is a surgical procedure that adds bone to the upper jaw between the jaw and the maxillary sinuses, which are located on either side of the nose. This procedure is typically performed when there is insufficient bone height in the back of the upper jaw to support dental implants.

During the procedure, the sinus membrane is lifted, and bone graft material is inserted into the space created. This bone graft material helps promote new bone growth, increasing the height and density of the bone in the posterior maxilla.

Sinus lifts are commonly performed by oral surgeons or specialist periodontists and are a routine and effective way to create a stable foundation for dental implants in patients with inadequate bone volume.

Several factors contribute to the cost of dental implants, making them relatively expensive compared to other tooth replacement options. Here is why dental implants are often costly:

Surgical Procedure: Dental implant placement is a surgical procedure that requires specialised training, equipment, and facilities. Oral surgeons or periodontists perform the surgery, which adds to the overall cost.

Implant Materials: Dental implants are typically made of biocompatible materials such as titanium, which is durable and compatible with the body. The quality and type of implant material used can impact the cost. There are over 1300 implant systems on the market which all differ in terms of quality of the product, the range of implant sizes and shapes available, the research and development of the implant manufacturer, how long the company has been around for, the track record of the implant itself and much more. The costs of each thus varies based on the above factors – it really is a matter of “you get what you pay for”. You also want to have the assurance that should complications arise in future then the implant company who has manufactured your implant will still be in existence many years later and the component parts will still be available to remedy any future issues. At Zental, we only use implant systems from the leading dental implant manufacturers.

Customisation: Each dental implant treatment is bespoke to the individual patient's needs and circumstances. This includes factors such as the number of implants required, the type of restoration (crown, bridge, denture), and any additional procedures like bone grafting or sinus lifts.

Laboratory Costs: The fabrication of custom-made dental restorations, such as crowns or dentures, involves specialised laboratory work. Skilled technicians create prosthetic teeth that match the patient's natural teeth in size, shape, and color, which adds to the cost. ‍

Additional Procedures: In some cases, patients may require additional procedures such as bone grafting, sinus lifts, or extractions to prepare the jawbone for implant placement. These supplementary procedures can increase the overall cost of treatment.

Long-Term Benefits: While the initial cost of dental implants may seem high, they offer long-term benefits such as durability, functionality, and aesthetics. Compared to other tooth replacement options like bridges or dentures, implants are often considered a worthwhile investment due to their longevity and natural feel.

Overall, while dental implants may be more expensive upfront, many patients find that the long-term benefits and improved quality of life justify the cost.

Dental tourism has become a popular choice for many UK patients due to the rising cost of dental care in the UK. Dental implants in turkey regularly market their services to UK patients, as do dental clinics across the European Union (EU).

At Zental, we regularly review dental implant treatment conducted in Turkey and elsewhere. Although some patients have had successful procedures, we regularly encounter procedures that have failed. The risk of having dental implant treatment abroad are high as any complications requires you to travel back to the country to resolve issues. In the event dental implant treatment abroad fails, the remedial cost of dental treatment in the UK will most likely be considerably higher than had you originally had the treatment conducted in the UK.

To ensure safety when getting dental implants abroad, patients should:

1. Research and choose a reputable dental clinic with a track record of successful outcomes.
2. Verify the qualifications and experience of the dental professionals performing the procedure.
3. Inquire about the clinic's adherence to international standards of care and sterilisation protocols.
4. Verify the brand of implant system being used.
5. Ask for examples of final laboratory
6. Schedule a consultation to discuss the treatment plan, address any concerns, and ensure compatibility with the proposed approach.

Daily Cleaning: Brush your implant-retained dentures at least twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste to remove food particles and plaque.

Use Specialised Products: Consider using denture cleaners or solutions specifically designed for implant-retained dentures to maintain cleanliness and freshness.

Floss Regularly: Clean between the implants and under the denture base using dental floss or interdental brushes to prevent plaque buildup and gum irritation.

Attend Regular Check-Ups: Visit your dentist for routine check-ups and professional cleanings to monitor the health of your implants and gums and ensure proper fit and function of your dentures.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using abrasive cleaners, bleach, or hot water on your implant-retained dentures, as these can damage the prosthetic teeth and the attachments connecting them to the implants.

Handle with Care: Handle your implant-retained dentures carefully to avoid dropping or damaging them. When not in use, store them in a denture container filled with water or denture cleaning solution to prevent them from drying out.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your gums, tongue, and palate with a soft-bristled brush or a moistened washcloth to remove bacteria and stimulate circulation in the oral tissues.

Address Issues Promptly: If you experience any discomfort, soreness, or loosening of your implant-retained dentures, contact your dentist immediately for evaluation and adjustments.

By following these care tips and maintaining regular dental visits, you can ensure the longevity and optimal function of your implant-retained dentures.

Recovery time after dental implant treatment varies depending on factors such as procedure complexity and individual healing. Typically, recovery spans a few days to several months. Here's a general overview:

Immediate Post-Operative Period: Patients may experience discomfort, swelling, and minor bleeding for a few days after surgery. Pain medication and rest are advised.

First Week: Swelling gradually decreases, and patients transition to a soft diet. Oral hygiene is crucial during this period.

First Few Weeks: Continued healing, with sutures possibly removed during follow-up appointments. Patients should stick to soft foods and attend scheduled check-ups.

Several Months: Osseointegration, the fusion of implant with bone, occurs during this time. Patients avoid activities that stress implants until they're fully integrated.

Long-Term: Once osseointegration is complete, patients resume normal activities. Regular dental check-ups are essential for implant health.

Following post-operative instructions and attending follow-up appointments are vital for successful recovery and optimal implant outcomes.

After the dental implant procedure is completed, several essential steps follow to ensure optimal healing and long-term success:

Immediate Post-Operative Care: Patients receive detailed post-operative instructions to manage discomfort, swelling, and bleeding. Medications such as pain relievers and antibiotics may be prescribed as needed.

Healing and Recovery: Patients undergo a healing period during which the surgical site undergoes tissue repair and osseointegration, the process of the implant fusing with the jawbone. Following a soft diet and avoiding strenuous activities can aid in healing.

Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing progress, remove sutures if necessary, and assess implant stability. These appointments are crucial for ensuring proper healing and early detection of any issues.

Temporary Prosthesis: In some cases, a temporary prosthetic restoration may be provided to maintain function and aesthetics while the implants heal. This temporary restoration is later replaced with a permanent one.

Final Prosthetic Restoration: Once osseointegration is complete and the implants are stable, the final prosthetic restoration (crown, bridge, or denture) is fabricated and attached to the implants. This restoration is customised to match the patient's natural teeth for a seamless smile.

Ongoing Maintenance: Patients receive guidance on proper oral hygiene practices to care for their implants and surrounding tissues. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential for long-term implant success.

Long-Term Follow-Up: Patients are encouraged to maintain regular dental visits for routine maintenance and monitoring of implant health. With proper care, dental implants can provide a durable and functional solution for tooth replacement.

Effective communication between the patient and dental provider is key throughout this process to address any concerns and ensure treatment success. By following post-operative instructions and attending scheduled appointments, patients can enjoy the benefits of their dental implants for years to come.

Typically treatment will take between 4-6 months from start to finish. Most of this time is allow the implants to fully integrate and fuse with your bone. In the meantime you can wear your existing denture over the top of the healing implants as a short term measure or we can make a new temporary denture for you whilst healing takes place.

A lower denture only needs a minimum of 2 conventional implants to give a exponential improvement on your ability to chew foods, and smile with confidence. For better stability 4 lower implants are recommended if you have the available bone.

For upper dentures a minimum of 4 conventional implantes are required

‍

Yes you can as long as they are of a good quality, fit well, look good and have a good bite. You must be happy with your existing dentures on every aspect except the fact that they are loose. In such cases we can convert these and make them implant retained. If your current dentures are not suitable then we would have to make you a new set of dentures on the new implants.

‍

Yes in certain circumstances you can – however in others you cannot. Its is far better to plan what type of teeth you would like from the outset – either removable (as in implant retained dentures) or fully fixed as in a full implant screw fitted bridge or “all on 4”. This way we can give you the best and most bespoke solution right from the outset.

‍

To keep the implants completely clean and disease free and ensure they last as long as possible we would recommend that you come in every 4-6 months for hygiene visits

The removable dentures are usually held onto the implant via frictional retentive nylon rings. These rings will wear out over time and willneed replacing which is a very quick and easy process.

On average we would say patients come back every 1-2 years for replacement of these nylon rings. Some patients who have a very strong bite or want the dentures super tight at all times may request to get the rings replaced every 4-6 months. Replacement of all the rings usually costs ~£50-£60 per denture.

‍