Dental Implants in London Bridge SE1

Dental Implants – what are the benefits?
Implants offer a permanent solution for missing teeth (or a tooth), helping restore bite force similar to that of natural teeth. They are the only teeth replacement option that helps prevent jaw bone loss and prevents the face from changing shape. The can be used to address –

1. Missing tooth (or a couple of teeth) – A Dental Implants is a permanent teeth replacement option that comes closest to replacing natural teeth. It is the gold standard in replacing a missing tooth. If you are missing a couple of teeth, Implant Retained Bridges supported by an implant can be a secure and permanent solution.

2. Missing teeth on either side of the jaw – dentures have traditionally been used to address missing teeth on either side of the jaw. However, Implant Retained Dentures are becoming increasingly popular, giving patients a more permanent and secure solution.

3. Broken or uncomfortable dentures – Implant Retained Dentures are a permanent, more secure and stable option as compared to traditional dentures. They are smaller in the mouth and more natural looking, they are also more comfortable to wear and allow for normal chewing and eating.

How do I choose a good Dental Implants provider?
An experienced implant dentist is one of the biggest factors for a successful dental implants, providing the patient with a natural looking teeth replacement solution. We recommend you choose a dentist who has extensive academic and research credentials and many years of practical experience in placing implants. At Whites Dental, our Implants Dentist Dr. Michail Vavalekas is exactly that – he has extensive experience in placing implants and has numerous qualifications and certificates in Implantology and Periodontology. Dr. Michail is also currently undertaking a PhD at the prestigious Eastman Institute in London, in the department of Periodontology and is often involved in poster presentations at the Academy of Osseointergration and attendance at lectures and seminars with leading experts in the field of periodontology.

The type of system used and quality of the implant system also plays a key role in the long term success of dental implants. Many dental implant systems currently exist in the market; again, we recommend using only reliable, long-lasting and high quality systems – systems with a track record of success. At Whites Dental, we only ever use the best and most reliable implant systems and equipment. When comparing prices, we advise patients to compare like for like – newly introduced and often lower quality implants are usually cheaper, aren’t as reliable and don’t last as long as established high-quality systems.

The Implant procedure – what does it involve?
The procedure below is meant only as a guide to give you an indication of the implant procedure. The actual procedure can vary based on individual needs.

Initial Consultation – During this appointment, the dentist will do a comprehensive dental exam, take X-rays of your mouth and discuss various treatment options available to you. The dentist will also provide you a recommended treatment plan. An OPG (specialist x-ray) is typically taken on or immediately after the initial consultation.

Implant Placement – Placing an implant is a relatively simple minor surgical procedure that can be performed in 1-2 hours. The treatment is performed under local anaesthesia, sedation can also be used if required. The implant (or metal screw) is placed into your bone and acts as the anchor for the whole prosthesis.

Healing Collar And / Or Temporary Crown – Implants can take six weeks or longer to fuse with the bone. The dentist will place a healing collar (also called a healing cap) on the head of the implant, helping guide the gum tissue in the proper way to heal. Once the tissue has healed, the dentist will remove it and move onto the next step. During this period, temporary dentures or bridgework can be worn.

Impressions – Once integrated, the implants can be brought into function with a variety of new teeth (restorative) options – ranging from a single crown, a small or large bridge or a removable over-denture. Impressions are taken to enable the dentist to create a well fitted restorative solution.

Restorative Fit – Once the restorative crown, bridge or over-denture is ready, the dentist will then fit it over the implant, completing the implant process.

After the treatment is completed, the patient should visit us for a review after six months and then annually (or at an interval the dentist recommends based on individual needs).

Visit our Dental Implants homepage – please click here  you can also learn more about solutions for missing teeth within our website or by visiting or speaking to one of our team at either of our clinics – near Waterloo or Marble Arch – Central London Dental Clinics.