Dental implants allow the replacement of missing teeth without the need to prepare or alter the shape of adjacent teeth, (as happens with traditional dental bridgework), and give improved function and longevity over traditional treatments.
It is a surgical procedure that involves the placement of a titanium implant into the bone. This, over time merges with the surrounding bone (osse-integration). After a period of healing (approximately 4 months) the final crown/bridge can be placed on the implant base.
In some instances, implants have also been proven to improve retention of dentures. They are placed in the lower/upper bone as above (usually 2-4 implant fixtures per denture) and the denture can then be made/modified to clip onto these.
Success of dental implants is mostly dependent on excellent gum health and proper oral hygiene habits.
At Onslow Dental we work in conjunction with specialist implant dental surgeons across Cork in order to ensure the best possible treatment and results for our patients.