Prosthodontics » Dental Implants
Each implant has a screw-thread on its outer surface and is screwed into position so that immediate close contact is achieved with the surrounding bone. This creates an initial stability which is enhanced by further natural growth of bone into microscopic roughness on the implant surface. This process is known as Osseo-integration.
In order to support replacement teeth, dental implants have some form of internal screw thread that allows a variety of components to be fitted. Once fitted, these components provide the foundation for long-term support of crowns or bridges.
Our practitioners are familiar with the systems and equipment to deal with the following implant systems:
- F2
- Xive
- Ankylos
- Biomet 3i
- Nobel Biocare
- Astra
- Straumann
Post operative instructions following implant surgery
You have just had one or more implant fixtures placed. This has been done very carefully using the best materials and the most advanced techniques.
Implant placement is now usually carried out in a single surgical stage. The fixture is protected with a metal cap which allows the gum to heal in a predictable way that mimics the natural situation. Arrangements are made to replace this with a temporary and eventually a permanent crown. Full healing takes up to six months and it is essential that no load is placed on the implant in the first six weeks. Your specialist will advise how to progressively start to use the tooth to stimulate physiological bone healing. If this advice is exceeded the implant will fail.
We find that most of our patients heal without any discomfort or complications. However, we must warn you that you may experience pain after the injection wears off. There may be some swelling, and later the face or neck may show some bruising. Success of the treatment depends on how well you look after yourself from now on. Please read these notes carefully and keep them for future reference during the healing period.
For the next 24 hours- Do not disturb the wound by rinsing or brushing vigorously.
- Avoid eating and drinking on that side.
- Avoid exercise and excitement as these tend to increase blood pressure and possibility of bleeding.
- If bleeding occurs apply slight pressure with finger and thumb each side of the implant for 30 minutes. Repeat this for longer periods if necessary.
- Keep the wound clean by rinsing with Corsodyl mouthwash. After the first day do this several times a day. This can be reduced over the next few days and you should stop after one week.
- Brush twice daily with an extra soft toothbrush applying Corsodyl gel around the healing wound but every where else brush as normal with your usual toothbrush and toothpaste. Again stop using the Corsodyl gel after one week.
- You must not put any pressure on a new implant. You must not eat on that side; if necessary liquidise your food, consuming soups and mashes.
- You must carefully keep the site clean.
You will be given advice about cleaning and how to gradually introduce soft food on the implant to stimulate but not overload the healing bone.
AnalgesicsWe usually discharge our patients with some strong painkillers. We will advise you when to take these. It is up to you to decide whether you need to repeat these four hourly.
AntibioticsYou will probably have been given antibiotics before the operation. Sometimes we ask our patients to continue these for up to five days.
StitchesAlthough we usually use dissolving stitches, we prefer to remove them after seven days as patients are more comfortable and heal better.
Questions?If you are uncertain about any part of your care, or if you are worried that something does not feel right or does not appear to be progressing well, please do not hesitate to ask.
For further information about dental implants, please visit ADI's website.
