Dental implants are the most effective method of replacing missing teeth with our dentist. If you are missing one or more teeth or need to replace all of your teeth, you need to speak to our dentist in Banbury at Amsel & Wilkins and find out about dental implants. Dental implants are suitable for patients of all ages and are designed to last for a lifetime.

What is the procedure for dental implants?

Here at Amsel & Wilkins, if you would like to have dental implants to replace your missing teeth, our dentist in Banbury will begin by carrying out a full examination of your mouth. We need to make sure that you have healthy teeth and gums. If you are suffering from dental problems, then you are not ready for the implant, and implantation itself may be unsuccessful. Therefore, when you visit our clinic, we will spend 45 minutes to an hour examining your teeth and taking x-rays of your mouth.

If our dentist is happy that dental implants are suitable for you, then we can concentrate on your missing teeth. You will undergo a scan that will give our dental team an idea of the quantity and quality of your jawbone. A scan is much more convenient than the impressions that had to be taken a few years ago, and with digital technology, we can put together a digital image of your mouth that tells us your bone density and what implant size is most suitable for you.

If you do not have sufficient healthy bone, then you will require a bone graft to ensure that the implant can be held in place securely. The process for dental implants can take up to 6 months, and if you require major bone grafting, then this may take longer.

Dental implant surgery

When you are ready, we will book you in for the surgery. You will be given an anaesthetic to prevent any pain or discomfort. Patients who require sedation will be given further options.

We will begin by making an incision in the gum to expose the bone socket of your missing tooth. A small hole will be drilled into the bone socket to hold the implant firmly in place. The implant will be inserted directly into the hole, and we will stitch your gum back into place. We then wait 3 to 4 months for a process known as osseointegration to help the implant become integrated into the bone. During this time, you can visit our dentist in Banbury to make sure the process is coming along successfully.

Replacing your missing tooth

Once the implant has been successfully embedded into your jaw, we will carry out another scan. We will send the results of this scan to the laboratory, and in two to three weeks, you will have a sparkly new crown, which we can screw onto the implant to replace your missing tooth. You must maintain a good dental hygiene routine and visit our dentist regularly to enjoy good oral health and help your implant last for the rest of your life.