Something to smile about: dental implants are giving Dentistry on Merivale’s dentures clients another choice

Do you have one or several missing teeth? Have you had dentures for years but want something solid and natural looking to chew and smile with? Dental implants may be the solution for you.

Dental implants are small, pure titanium screws that are surgically placed in your jaw and have proven themselves to be a reliable addition to the treatment options currently available in high quality dental practice.
Implants are placed and then left to heal for three or more months, during which time ‘osseointegration’ occurs – the bone heals around the implant fixtures, locking them into place permanently. False teeth, crowns, or other appliances can then be attached, either with screws or cement.
If only one tooth is to be replaced, generally a porcelain crown will be attached to a single implant fixture. If a few teeth are missing, more than one fixture may be required – a three or four teeth bridge can often be attached to two implants. Or if a full arch (all the upper or lower teeth) is to be restored, several fixtures can be placed, with the denture either screwed to or clipped onto the fixtures.
Dental implant treatment can initially be more costly than conventional treatment options. However, as it provides a very long term solution, the cost is often comparable over time.
Doctor David Walsh has more than 25 years of experience with providing implant based solutions for people of all ages and backgrounds. For more information contact Dentistry on Merivale, upstairs inside Merivale Mall, on 03-355 8297 or at
www.dentistryonmerivale.co.nz.