“My research background ensures I provide the most innovative and evidence-based techniques and treatments.”
—Dr Maria Devine
Dental Implant Surgery
Dental implants are a long-term replacement option for missing natural teeth or teeth that need to be extracted due to dental disease. They consist of a screw which acts as a replacement for the tooth root (usually made from titanium) that is placed surgically into the jaw bone. Over time, the bone heals closely around the implant surface to hold it in place (this is called osseointegration). Dental implants normally have an internal screw thread that allows components to be fitted onto the implant. These can be used to support a crown (a single tooth) or bridge (a group of teeth). Implants can also be used in smaller numbers to improve the retention of removable dentures (false teeth).
Dental implant treatment requires careful planning, skilled placement, a period of healing, laboratory-made teeth to be placed onto the implants and long-term maintenance and aftercare with your dentist.
Assessment for dental implants involves clinical examination and images such as X-rays, 3D scans and clinical photographs. The rest of the mouth must be healthy with no ongoing dental or gum disease to ensure the highest success rate of the implant treatment. A customised plan will be written for you outlining the treatment options, risks, benefits, alternatives and financial implications.
The next stage of treatment involves surgical placement of the implant. This is normally completed under local anaesthetic (numbing injections) but sedation can be offered in some cases for management of anxiety. The gum is lifted away from the jaw bone and a small hole, compatible with the implant size is drilled in the jaw bone. The implant is then inserted into the bone and the gum is replaced with stitches. Although the surgical procedure is painless, you may experience pressure and vibration sensations during implant placement.
The recovery from dental implant surgery is similar to a tooth extraction. Pain, swelling and bruising may be experienced for several days. Simple painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can be used to manage pain and discomfort. A liquid/ pureed diet should be maintained for the first week of healing and chewing directly over the implant should be avoided for at least six weeks. The bony healing around the implant takes around 3 months, up to 6 months. Individual factors such as general health conditions, smoking and alcohol consumption may affect this healing process.
Some types of implant will be visible above the gum following surgery and others will be buried. The implants will usually be left for at least three months before they are used to support replacement teeth. Implants buried under the gum will require a second small surgical procedure to expose them before they can be used.
Following this healing period, a number of appointments will be required to make the crown, bridge or dentures to fit onto your implants. Impressions or scans of the implant will be required in order for the replacement teeth to be made. In total, treatment could extend over six to twelve months.
In the immediate healing period, there is a risk of infection which could compromise the healing of the implant. Oral hygiene and aftercare will be discussed prior to surgery. There is a small risk that the implants may not integrate properly with the bone and cannot be used to support crowns or bridges. The risk is higher in certain individuals, particularly those who smoke or have certain medical conditions. This will be discussed during the initial assessment. It is possible for parts of the implant to loosen or wear out with time. This can lead to failure of the implant, or the crown or bridge on the implant. The replacement teeth can chip or fracture and may need to be replaced more frequently than the implant itself.
Interested in Other Procedures?
Visit our dedicated page to find out more about other oral surgical treatments and procedures performed by Dr Maria Devine.
Will my surgery be painful?
All Oral Surgery procedures are carried out with local anaesthesia (numbing injections) and sometimes with sedation. Use of local anaesthetic gel and a careful technique minimises any discomfort of the injections. Once the area is numb the procedure will be pain-free.
Will it be painful afterwards?
Everyone is different but you will likely experience mild to moderate pain and discomfort depending on the complexity of the procedure. Pain after Oral Surgery can be managed well with simple painkillers such as ibuprofen and paracetamol. Pain is likely to last for a few days up to 2 weeks depending on the Surgery. You will be advised on what to expect following your procedure.
Do I need to take time off work?
It is likely that you may experience some pain, discomfort, swelling and bruising following your surgery and this may be visible to others. Swelling usually peaks after 3 days then gradually reduces over several days. It is recommended to take at least the day of your surgery and the following day off work, particularly if you have been treated under sedation.
What can I eat after my surgery?
A liquid/pureed diet is recommended for the first few days. Hot foods and drinks should be avoided for the first 24 hours. Foods such as soups, smoothies and ice cream are ideal. As pain and swelling improves you can move onto soft foods such as mashed potato, pasta, fish and soft vegetables. You should avoid chewing any food directly over the implant site for 6 weeks.
Can I exercise after my surgery?
Strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 48 hours as this may cause bleeding and increased pain. As you recover you can begin gentle exercise and work up to your normal routines.
How long do dental implants last?
Implants are a long-term treatment option for replacement of missing teeth. With care and maintenance, they may be expected to last 10-20 years prior to retreatment. There may be a need to replace the crown, bridge or denture at more regular intervals which vary depending on the individual. Implants require regular monitoring by a dentist, professional maintenance by a hygienist and excellent self-care to maintain optimum oral hygiene.