NAVIGATION

Implants

VSS specialises in placing implants and all the associated surgery. Before treatment we will take care to explain to you what will be required to achieve a satisfactory result. The following information has been provided to assist you to understand the procedure.

What are implants?

Implants are titanium anchors placed in the bone to support and retain crowns, bridges or dentures.

Why do I need implants?

When you lose a tooth or teeth there are three alternatives. You can wear a denture (a removable plastic plate), fit a bridge that requires support on neighbouring teeth or place implants, which stand alone and do not require other support.

The main benefit associated with having implants over the alternatives is that implants are permanently fixed, and do not require the preparation of neighbouring teeth.

What does the procedure involve?

The surgery involved in placing an implant is relatively minor and suitable for patients of all ages. Once the implants are inserted, a healing period of three months is needed (osseointegration) before the crown, bridge or denture can be attached. During this healing period it will be possible to wear a temporary replacement.

Will it be painful?

The procedure is performed under either local or general anaesthetic and usually causes minimal pain and swelling.

For preoperative information to help you prepare for the procedure, please download the relevant fact sheet below.

IMPLANTS: Local Anaesthetic

IMPLANTS: General Anaesthetic

For information about follow up care, please refer to Patient Information.