The condition of the jaws will be assessed for suitability and the treatment planned using X-ray films, photographs and models of the teeth.  It may be necessary to take a Jaw Scan (CT) type X-ray to check the amount and position of the available bone.  The final decision whether or not to proceed with implant placement will be made at the time of surgery and will be determined by the quality and quantity of the jaw bone.

 

An important nerve runs in the lower jaw that supplies sensation to the lower lip and skin of the chin.  Obviously the X-ray is important in determining the position of this nerve and avoiding the possibility of injury which could result altered sensation when placing implants in the lower jaw.

 

In the upper jaw it is important to ascertain the size and position of the air sinus and nasal cavities prior to implant insertion.  Occasionally the implants may be placed slightly into the sinus or nasal cavity.  Usually this is not noticeable but there may be a slight nasal discharge with a small amount of temporary bleeding.  In rare situations the implant may fall into these cavities and have to be removed. 

 

If the implants are being placed between existing teeth then there is always the slight risk that the tooth, its roots or supporting bone may be damaged during the placement procedure. This is more likely to occur if the teeth are very close together or their roots badly angled reducing the amount of space required to accommodate the implant. If this is the case it will have been identified during your assessment and discussed with you prior to implant treatment. Occasionally the teeth either side of an implant may feel slightly different or have an altered sensation.