What is a Dental Implant?
Losing a tooth, or multiple teeth, can often have a severe impact on your confidence. Dental implants offer a superb strong, secure and natural looking solution. A very advanced restoration, they are a highly accurate and predictable way to restore missing or failing teeth.
Implant dentistry has made incredible progress in recent years, and we are proud to provide implant treatment at Smile Suffolk. Implants create an artificial tooth root, using strong titanium posts placed into your jawbone to support a crown, bridge or denture.
Titanium is used for dental implants as it is very well tolerated by the body. Over time, the titanium root fuses to the surrounding bone in the jaw, becoming a solid and durable foundation.
About Dr Senthil
Principal Dentist
BDS 2000
Senthil has been practising dentistry since 2000 and has a keen interest in the field of Cosmetic Dentistry and Dental Implants. Senthil expanded his clinical experience by taking the posts of Senior House Officer in Oral & Maxillofacial surgery department at various London hospitals. He then completed a 1 year Postgraduate certificate course on Cosmetic & Aesthetic Restorative Dentistry in London.
As the owner and Clinical Director of Smile Suffolk since 2010, Senthil’s main interest is in the field of Implantology, which he has pursued with a commitment to postgraduate qualifications. This included the implant course held by the Faculty of General Dental Practitioners at The Royal College of Surgeons and a Master’s programme in Dental Implantology and Oral surgery from the prestigious Marconi University in Italy.
Recent advancement in Dental Lasers has driven Senthil to have a greater interest in this field, and he is currently pursuing the completion of a 2 year Master of Science in Dental Lasers from Aachen University, Germany.
Outside of the surgery, Senthil loves to spend time with his wife and two children and even manages to find time for tennis, cricket and skiing.
Benefits of Dental Implants
- Aesthetic – Implants look, feel and function just like natural teeth and restore your smile, creating a more youthful appearance. They also stop any shrinkage of the jawbone, which can cause your face to sag and look older.
- Secure – Implants stay firmly in place, eliminating the need to worry about any loose parts which may slip or move when you are eating or speaking. Implants are stable, comfortable and durable as they are held in place by your bone.
- Predictable – Modern dental implants are highly predictable and accurate. We use advanced digital dentistry, including 3D CBCT scans, to ensure the best outcome. At Smile Suffolk, our implant treatments have a 95-98% success rate.
What to expect on your implant journey
Implant treatment can be quite lengthy, involving several appointments. The end result will definitely be worth the time your treatment takes.
Step 1: Initial Dental Implant Consultation
At this initial appointment we discuss your wish list, the benefits of dental implant treatment and considerations. Whether it be for restoring missing teeth/gaps, improving chewing, replacing dentures and failed bridges or preventing bone loss, dental implants usually are the best long-term option for these situations. We take necessary X-rays, impressions and other data required for diagnosis and treatment planning.
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Step 2: Treatment Planning
At this appointment X-rays and other diagnostic information is discussed and a treatment plan is formulated, discussed and approved by you. A CT Scan may be taken if necessary.
Step 3: Preview
From the diagnostic information we have collated, a surgical guide is made to ensure the precise placement of dental implants in your mouth. A preview of your proposed final result is made and approved by you, making for a predictable and pleasing end result.
Step 4: Implant Placement
At this appointment, we place your dental implants and provide you with a temporary restoration to restore your smile and function whilst your dental implants are healing.
Step 5: Final Fitting
Once your implants have fully healed, which usually takes between 3-6 months after placement, your final implant supported restorations are fitted. These can include crowns, bridges or dentures. We ensure they are comfortable and any necessary tweaks are carried out so you are completely happy with the result.
Step 6: Review
We take the time to review your implant treatment with you, ensuring you are happy with your results and giving you the chance to ask any questions about looking after your new restoration.
What our patients say
Choosing the right implant dentist is a big decision. You want someone you can trust, who has experience, and provides excellent care. Here at Smile Suffolk, we’re committed to exceeding your expectations. See what our patients have to say about their experiences with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I suitable for dental implants?
Most people are a suitable candidate for dental implants, as long as you are generally healthy and have good oral health. However, some patients may have more complex requirements. We will thoroughly discuss your overall suitability for implant treatment at your initial consultation, including ways to help it be as successful as possible. We also welcome you to ask any questions during this time, which we are happy to answer.
Is dental implant treatment painful?
We use local anaesthetic during dental implant surgery to ensure you are comfortable during the procedure. You won’t be able to feel a thing. After treatment, it is normal to experience some discomfort, and this can be managed with pain relief advised by your dentist. Implant treatment is often less painful than having a tooth extraction, and most patients are able to return to their usual routines the next day.
How long does the dental implant treatment process take?
The whole process, from missing teeth to secure fixed replacements, can take several months. The implant surgery is a relatively quick procedure, but the implants themselves need around 3-6 months to heal and fuse before fixed permanent teeth can be placed. The treatment process will be longer if you need a bone graft or other procedure first, but your new smile will be more than worth it in the end.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime if they are properly looked after. This includes maintaining an excellent brushing and flossing routine, looking after your general health and attending regular check up appointments with your dentist. The crown or bridge that the implant supports may need to be replaced over time due to normal wear and tear.
Will other people be able to tell I have dental implants?
No, dental implants look and feel exactly like natural teeth. We can match the shape and colour of your existing teeth when creating your final fixed crown or bridge so it blends seamlessly into your smile.
How much do dental implants cost in Ipswich?
The cost of dental implants varies depending on a few things, including the number of implants needed, the type of restoration (crown, bridge, denture), and any necessary preparatory procedures. We recommend booking a consultation with us to get your personalised quote.
Why are dental implants more expensive than other tooth replacement options?
Dental implants are a long-term, durable solution that replaces the entire tooth structure, from root to crown. They offer superior stability, function, and aesthetics compared to dentures or bridges, which is why they’re a bigger investment, but they are well worth it in the end.
Can I pay for my dental implants in instalments?
Whilst we don’t offer finance for our dental implant treatment, we can offer a 10% discount on the cost if you are part of our annual membership plan. Contact our friendly team today to find out more.
How can I get a personalised quote for dental implants?
The best way to get an accurate quote is to book a consultation with our experienced dental implant team. During your appointment, we will assess your needs and provide a tailored treatment plan and cost estimate.
How much does the initial consultation cost?
We offer an initial consultation for £99.00. This cost includes small X-rays and is redeemable against treatment if you are a suitable candidate for dental implant treatment. Please contact our friendly team to book your consultation today.
