Dental Implants in Brighton

What are dental implants?

If you are missing one or more teeth, dental implants can be an excellent way of replacing the gap.

Dental implants are titanium screws that act as replacements for the roots of missing teeth. They are placed directly into the jawbone and allow the dentist to attach crowns or bridges on top.

Are dental implants right for me?

Although implants are a great way to replace missing teeth, they are not the only option. At Westdene, we will spend time discussing all the possible alternatives to make the best decision for your mouth.

We provide 0% interest free finance to allow you to spread the cost of your treatment over 10 months

Book in for a consultation

Please contact us to book an implant consultation with Eleanor. She will be able to assess your suitability for dental implants and talk you through the procedure.

Contact us today via the website here or call us on 01273 550 116.

What to expect when getting a dental implant

Dental implants are titanium screws that act as replacements for the roots of missing teeth. They are placed directly into the jawbone and allow the dentist to attach crowns or bridges on top. Once the implant is placed and buried under the gum, it must have time to integrate into the jawbone before the teeth are attached. This usually takes between 3-6 months depending on individual circumstances –we will discuss the specific timeframe you will need before commencing with any treatment.

Once the implant is fully integrated, we will take an impression of the mouth. The gum will need to be numbed up again as a small incision will be made in order to expose the implants during the impression phase.

The final appointment takes place approximately two weeks later when the final crowns or bridges are fitted.

Pre-Surgery

• X-rays or CT scans of your teeth must be assessed by your dentist prior to the surgery. Please hand in any scans to reception as soon as possible.
• Make sure you have eaten something before attending the practice on the day of the surgery.
• If you have any questions or anxieties about the procedure please contact us on 01273 550116 or via email at reception@westdenedental.co.uk
• In some instances it may be necessary to take a course of antibiotics before the implant is placed. We will have discussed this at your assessment appointment and will have given you the antibiotics to take if this is deemed necessary in your case.

During surgery

• Placing dental implants is a surgical procedure. As such, the dentist, nurse and treatment room will be dressed in a surgical and sterile manner. Please try to avoid touching the surgical drapes whilst you are in the room.
• During the procedure the gum will be fully anaesthetised in the area where the implant is to be placed via a small injection (similar to having a filling done).
• An incision is made in the gum to expose the bone underneath. A precise hole is drilled into the bone and this is progressively widened until the final shape is reached. X-rays are taken to check the position of the implant hole and if this is satisfactory, the implant is then screwed into the hole until it is fully seated.
• Finally, sutures (or stitches) are placed to seal the implant under the gum and if necessary, a temporary denture of bridge is fitted over the top.

Post surgery

• You will still be numb 3-4 hours after leaving the practice. We strongly advise that you take the rest of the day to recover and avoid any strenuous activity. Mild discomfort is normal for the next 5-7days and you might see some bruising or swelling around the face.
• We will provide a specific regime of antibiotics anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen) and painkillers to suit your individual needs.

You will receive a follow up phone call 24-48 hours after the surgery to answer any questions you may have.