Opening Hours |
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| Monday | 8am - 5.15pm | |
| Tuesday | 8am - 5.15pm | |
| Wednesday | 8am - 5.15pm | |
| Thursday | 8am - 5.15pm | |
| Friday | 8am - 12.30pm | |
| Sat/Sun | by arrangement | |
There are about 500 different implant systems currently in use around the world today. Less than ten of these have any substantial refereed evidence in the literature, let alone long-term follow up evidence.
Nobel Biocare, previously known as Brånemark System, were the originators of the whole field of implant dentistry. With more than 40 years of clinical research that have resulted in over 15,000 independent scientific publications, we feel that they offer the most extensively documented, clinically validated and practice-proven implant system on the market.
We are told by technicians, and by dentists who restore implants we place for them, that using this system is more reliable and simpler than providing dentistry on teeth.
Of course, the implants have to be properly placed in exactly the right position!
The most common variable, quoted in many studies, in the success of any surgical therapy is the experience of the operator. Nigel Rosenbaum is accepted as an expert in his field, with years of experience and an up-to-date appreciation of the current state of contemporary therapy. He has lectured nationally and at international meetings on contemporary implant dentistry.
Implant therapy is best carried out in defined treatment phases which require a systematic approach to treatment planning and the surgical and prosthetic phases of treatment.
At the initial consultation we will take into account the patient's expectations and wishes. There is an interactive discussion regarding the nature, advantages and limitations of implants, materials used in augmentation procedures and other alternative treatments that may suit the patient. We will perform a detailed examination that will enable us to give the patient an outline idea of the costs and timescale of different treatment options that may be suitable.
If the patient wishes to proceed further, they will then return for further investigations according to their treatment need, e.g. photographs, impressions and other data will be collected, following which we will be able to provide a detailed written report, proposed treatment plan and estimate detailing the timescale and cost of treatment.
The best time to refer is as soon as possible! It is not necessary to wait months after tooth removal before referring. Immediate implant placement (placement of an implant at the same time as extraction) can be appropriate, but often tooth extractions are arranged according to planned implant placement in order to achieve an optimal functional and aesthetic result.
Usually, we will take this decision. For the referring practitioner, the basic rule is: If the tooth is causing bone loss (e.g. fractured root, chronic infection, suppuration), remove it! If the tooth is not causing bone loss, seal the canal and refer.
Most aesthetic placement will require some bone augmentation, although this is generally simple and simultaneous with implant placement. We have extensive experience in intermediate and complex grafting procedures, with high success rates.
Immediate load can sometimes be an option, but because the indications for such a procedure are more limited, appropriate case selection is an important factor. Usually three months after implant placement the implant will be exposed and restoration started.
A transitional restoration is worn during the healing phases after bone grafting or implant placement. We prefer to avoid the use of transitional dentures where possible, to avoid the risk of premature / adverse load on a healing graft or implant, which is a known risk for failure. Other options are always investigated.
One option is to place temporary mini implants that are immediately loaded with a transitional bridge. These mini implants are then easily removed when the "proper" implants are loaded.
Our opinion on mini-implants is that this is their only use – Although mini implants are available in a bewildering array of sizes from 1.8mm to 2.9 mm diameter; they are only cleared for "transitional" use. There is little published evidence on their uses and limited prosthetic options for restoration.
There are orthodontic mini-implants available, which we use to achieve superb anchorage, and this is a well-documented treatment modality.
A provisional restoration is an initial, temporary restoration on the implants.
Whilst "progressive load" on implants is now known not to be necessary, provisional restorations are used:
