Swindon Dentist

What is a Dental Implant

A dental implant (artificial tooth root) is a custom-made piece of biocompatible metal that serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. It is developed from surgical-grade titanium alloy to exacting specifications. The implant is placed into either the upper or lower jawbone. After a period of time, the implant integrates with the bone and becomes a secure anchor for a replacement tooth, a fixed bridge, a removable partial, or a complete denture.

Am I a candidate for a dental implant?

If you are missing one or more teeth, then you may be a candidate for a dental implant. Dental implants will allow you to smile, speak, and eat with confidence and comfort.

With implant dentistry, you can once again enjoy the beauty and functionality of healthy teeth. Any procedure is possible, from single tooth to a complete replacement of all your teeth.

Dental Implant Procedure

Tooth replacement with dental implants usually takes place in three stages. During your first appointment, the titanium implant is surgically implanted into position. The procedure is performed under a local anaesthetic, so you will not feel any discomfort during treatment. Sedation is available if you feel you will need this. Once the implant is securely attached, the dentist closes the gum tissue with stitches.

For the next several months, the implant will gradually fuse with the surrounding bone in a process known as Osseo integration.

The second stage of oral surgery takes place after the dental implant has sufficiently bonded to the jaw. During this appointment, a small connector, also called a post, is fastened to the implant. Once the procedure is complete, the gum tissue around the implant and post is allowed to heal. During the third and final stage, the replacement tooth (a crown) is attached to the dental implant post. The custom-made tooth is carefully shaped and adjusted to complement your bite. Depending on the number and type of implants used, the entire process should take between five months and a year to complete.

Are there different types of dental implants?

There are several different types of dental implants available but this will be discussed at each individual case. We are well placed to offer you help and assistance ,so If you are looking for a dentist in Swindon or are nearby please do give us a call

Ebenezer House Professional tooth whitening

Tooth whitening is an easy way to improve the appearance of your teeth.

As you get older, your teeth can become darker naturally. This process is often increased by drinking tea, coffee, red wine or other food and drink with strong colourings. Another major cause is smoking, which can make your teeth appear discoloured. Decay, fillings and tartar build-up can also contribute to discolouration. If the nerves and blood vessels in teeth are damaged through decay or a knock, this can also make the tooth become darker.

Some types of staining can be caused by diseases or medicines. For example, if a type of antibiotic called tetracycline is given to children whose teeth are still developing; their adult teeth may form with a stained appearance.

Your dentist takes impressions of your teeth, then has special trays made so that they fit your teeth precisely. Your dentist will give you tubes of bleaching gel and instructions on how to put the gel in the mouth trays. You will need to wear the mouth trays for at least 2 hours each day, for at least two weeks, some people prefer to wear them over night. It may take three to four weeks to achieve the colour that you want. Your dentist will give you detailed instructions.

When not to have tooth whitening

There are some instances when a dentist may recommend that you don’t have whitening. For example, if you have tooth decay, this should be treated before starting any whitening treatments. Similarly, your gums should be healthy so if you have any gum disease, this needs treating first, whitening won’t work on false teeth, crowns, veneers or fillings (including tooth-coloured fillings) we recommend that these are replaced after you have achieved a shade with the whitening that you are happy with, then we can match it all up when you are happy with a shade.

If your teeth are extremely sensitive to hot and cold food or drinks,whitening may not be recommended, but there are treatments that we can do to reduce this.

Some types of staining, such as tetracycline antibiotic staining, don’t respond to whitening as well as others. Whitening, if successful, may take longer on tetracycline-stained teeth.

Side-effects of tooth whitening

All dental treatment carries a risk of side-effects, which are the unwanted, but mostly temporary effects you may get after a procedure. Side-effects include temporary sensitivity of the teeth to hot and cold, a sore throat, tender gums or white patches on your gums. These side-effects should disappear after a few days. Contact your dentist if the symptoms persist. There is no evidence to suggest that tooth whitening is harmful to the teeth or gums.

Please contact the practice for more information on how to achieve a whiter smile with us.