Replacing Teeth
(Implants)
The Hollies Dental Practice and our principal Dr Stephan Kotzenberg specialises in Dental Implants. Modern dental implants are used to replace missing teeth and overcome the problems which can occur as a result of tooth loss.
As well as the aesthetic benefit, dental implants are favoured over dentures because they are fixed – offering the feel and function of natural teeth. And they are preferred as an alternative to conventional bridgework as they eliminate the need to alter healthy teeth.
From initial assessment through to after care we will offer you first class dental care and support, guiding you step-by-step.
Initial Implant Consultation
What it involves:
The initial consultation is used to establish how suitable you are to receive dental implant treatment. Some patients aren’t suitable because of reduced bone density, depth and width, or due to the sinus cavity being too low. These problems can usually be overcome with the use of a range of remedial treatments.
The implantologist would then discuss all the available treatment options with you and this will be followed up by a written treatment plan, with all charges clearly explained. You will then be able to make a decision regarding which option is the most suitable for you and comes within your budget.
If you wish to book a free 30 minute consultation with our implantologist, please contact the practice.
Bridge Treatments
A bridge, as the name suggests, is when we have one or more false teeth “suspended”, holding on your own teeth on one or both sides. This is a fixed solution, unlike dentures.
You do not have to take your bridge in and out. As it does not move you can eat, drink, and speak confidently. The biggest disadvantage of this option is that often we need to drill the adjacent teeth to hold the false “suspended” teeth in place.
As we rely on these teeth to keep the bridge in place, if something happens to them, you may lose the entire unit.
(Bridges) – Frequently Asked Questions
Is a bridge always an option?
In some cases, a bridge is not an option. If there are lots of teeth missing or if you don’t have teeth both sides of the gap a bridge may not be an option for you. A detailed conversation and explanation will be given to you by one of our dentists at the time of your consultation.
How much does a bridge cost?
This can vary accordingly to the number of teeth that need to be replaced. A bridge is usually more expensive than a denture but cheaper than implants.
Dentures
Dentures, often known as “false teeth” or “plates” are often used when missing teeth. They are very useful when replacing many teeth. They have developed over the years and are now more comfortable.
They are made so your teeth look natural, and they also improve the appearance of your soft tissues where teeth were lost.
(Dentures) – Frequently Asked Questions
Is a denture fixed to my mouth?
No, dentures are removable appliances. You should be able to use them to eat and speak. We always aim to make them as stable as possible, so they won’t move. However, if you lost many teeth, your bones and jaw can shrink and therefore not support your dentures as well as we would like.
When this happens, we may recommend the use of a denture ‘glue’ or suggest an alternate material for the denture to be made out of, or even implants to help support them.