Developments in dental technology have made it possible to use implants as anchors for dentures and bridges.

A dental implant is made from titanium, is shaped like a screw and is a substitute for a natural tooth root. It is placed (a fixture) into the jaw-bone in a precisely located place in close contact with the bone, during a minor surgical operation, usually under local anaesthesia. The exact number of implants required varies from patient to patient. This will be discussed during your consultation at Cotswold Dental Specialists. Cotswold Dental Specialists can arrange for implants to be placed under general anaesthesia when required. In the vast majority of cases there is little or no post-operative pain and stitches are placed and removed one week later. The implants are left for a varying period of time, typically two to six months to join to the bone. Then, at a second stage minor operation a connecting piece (abutment) is placed from the fixture through the gum. Then, crowns, bridges or dentures can be fabricated onto abutments.

Case 1

Crowns on implants for right lateral and both central incisors after completion of treatment

Case 2

Four implants in the upper jaw, joined by a bar with a complete denture clipped in place over the bar to provide an immovable denture, essential in this case ­ the patient is a professional musician and plays the French horn.

Most patients are suitable for implants, but there must be sufficient bone into which to place the fixtureImplants are not advised for patients with active periodontal (gum) disease.

• A high standard of plaque control is essential.
• Smoking reduces implant success rate.
• Implants are highly successful and have a very low failure rate.

Cotswold Dental Specialists use the highly regarded Astra or Straumann Systems, depending on the individual case.

Detailed planning of how implants can benefit you can only be given following a consultation. You can contact Dr Turner on 01285 658822 to make a consultation appointment for this highly specialised form of dental treatment.