How successful is the treatment?

Implantology is a tried and tested treatment, and 95% of modern implants last for at least 10 years, a higher success rate than virtually any other dental procedure. On the rare occasion that initial integration does not occur and the implant is loosening, then it can be easily removed and the site allowed to heal, with placement of another implant at a later stage. Initial success rates vary between different areas of the mouth. Long term failures whilst relatively uncommon, can occur, particularly in smokers, where the implants are overstressed or hygiene is poor.

Being implanted into the bone, as with your natural teeth, implants require thorough cleaning. If this is not carried out then you may experience problems similar to that of gum disease with infection around the implant resulting in bone loss, loosening and failure. Cleaning around the implants is no more difficult than cleaning your natural teeth and we will strongly advise all patients to see the dental hygienist on a regular basis to maintain the healthy status of the implant and the rest of the teeth and gums.

Ian Brignall is an experienced surgeon and restorative dentist. He is a member of the Association of Dental Implantology, and the British and American Academies of Cosmetic Dentistry and is pleased to be able to offer a wide ranging implant service to patients at Atkinson Brignall Caring Dentistry.