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Restorative Dentistry
Dental Implants
Missing teeth can affect the way you eat, speak and smile. At Toddington Dental Surgery, we offer dental implant treatment to help replace missing teeth in a natural-looking and secure way.
Dental implants are a popular option for patients who have lost one or more teeth and would like a long-term replacement. They can be used to support a single crown, a bridge or dentures, depending on your individual needs.
Our team will take the time to assess your mouth carefully, explain your options clearly and help you decide whether dental implants are the right treatment for you.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Replacing missing teeth in a natural-looking way
Helping to restore chewing ability
Supporting crowns, bridges or dentures
Helping to improve confidence when smiling and speaking
Avoiding the need to prepare healthy neighbouring teeth in some cases
Providing a secure option for patients who struggle with loose dentures
Helping to maintain the shape and function of the mouth after tooth loss
Every patient is different, so your dentist will assess your teeth, gums and jawbone before advising whether implants are suitable for you.
Who May Be Suitable?
Dental implants may be suitable for patients who:
Have one or more missing teeth
Have loose or uncomfortable dentures
Want a fixed option to replace missing teeth
Have healthy gums or are willing to improve their gum health before treatment
Have enough jawbone to support an implant, or may be suitable for bone grafting if required
Are committed to maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups
Some patients may not be suitable straight away. We will assess your oral and general health and explain your options fully.
Implant-retained dentures
Implant-retained dentures use dental implants to help secure a removable denture. They may be an option for patients who find conventional dentures loose or uncomfortable. Your dentist will assess your mouth and explain the number of implants, cleaning requirements and treatment options suitable for you.
Implant-retained bridges
An implant-retained bridge can replace several missing teeth using implants for support. We will discuss whether a fixed bridge is appropriate, how it would be maintained and the alternatives before preparing your treatment plan.
Sedation available upon request
If you feel anxious about implant treatment, please ask us about sedation. Sedation is available upon request, subject to an assessment of suitability and arrangements with the dental team.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a small titanium screw placed into the jawbone to act like an artificial tooth root. Once it has healed and integrated with the bone, it can support a replacement tooth such as a crown, bridge or denture.
The aim of implant treatment is to restore function, comfort and appearance, helping you smile, eat and speak with more confidence.
Immediate Implants and Same-Day Teeth
For suitable patients, a tooth may be removed and an implant placed on the same day. Where clinically appropriate, a temporary crown or bridge can also be fitted so you can leave the practice with a tooth in place while the implant heals.
This option is not suitable for everyone. Suitability depends on the tooth, available bone, gum health, infection, your bite and implant stability. We will recommend the safest and most predictable option for you.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants are designed as a long-term solution, but success depends on oral hygiene, gum and general health, smoking habits and regular dental maintenance.
With good care and regular reviews, implants can last for many years. Like natural teeth, implants and the teeth attached to them still need ongoing care.
The Dental Implant Process
1
Initial Consultation
We discuss your concerns, examine your mouth, review your dental and medical history and talk about what you would like to achieve.
2
Assessment and Treatment Planning
Your assessment may include X-rays, photographs, impressions or scans. We then explain your options, treatment stages, likely timescale and fees.
3
Implant Placement
The implant is carefully placed into the jawbone, usually under local anaesthetic, and is then left to heal and integrate with the bone.
4
Healing Period
Healing time varies. We explain how to care for the area and may provide a temporary tooth or denture while the implant heals.
5
Fitting the Replacement Tooth
Once the implant is ready, a crown, bridge or denture designed to fit your mouth and complement your smile is attached.
6
Aftercare and Maintenance
Good brushing, cleaning around the implant and regular dental visits help keep the implant and surrounding gums healthy.
Your questions, answered
Are implants suitable for everyone?
Suitability depends on an individual assessment. Your dentist will review your oral health, medical history and available bone before recommending a plan.
How do I find out the cost?
Arrange a consultation for a personalised treatment plan. You can also view our fee guide before contacting the practice.