Implants are the gold standard in the replacement of missing teeth. An implant consists of a titanium tooth root placed in the jaw, to which a crown, bridge or denture is affixed. This results in a natural-looking and long-lasting restoration, and is in most cases considered to be the best option for replacing a missing tooth, or multiple missing teeth.

Implants look and feel like natural teeth, are easy to maintain and provide a secure and stable fit that allows you to eat and speak comfortably. They also preserve the density of your jawbone. We work with Christchurch’s leading specialists to achieve the best possible results for our patients.

Is a dental implant the right choice for me?

Dental implants are an excellent choice for replacing missing teeth for many patients. However, to be a candidate for placement of an implant you must have enough bone at the site of the missing tooth. The longer your tooth has been missing, the more recession of your bone you are likely to experience. If you do not have sufficient bone to support an implant, you may need to undergo a bone grafting procedure prior to implant placement.

It is also important that your mouth is healthy, and that you have no signs of gum disease, as this could compromise the implant.

Dental implants are also relatively costly and take a long time to complete; this needs to be weighed up against the fact that they provide a long-term solution to the problem of missing teeth.

What is involved in a dental implant procedure?

We will first assess the missing tooth (or teeth) site and your suitability for an implant. If we are satisfied that you are a good candidate for an implant, then we will refer you to a specialist, who will place the titanium implant in your mouth. Specialists offer sedation options, and the placement process is generally straightforward, although you will require an additional procedure if you also need bone grafting at the implant site. Your specialist will be able to advise you of the need for this, and exactly what to expect at your implant placement procedure.

Once the implant site has healed, which generally takes around 3-7 months, we will place the crown, bridge or denture on top of the implant.