I LOVE my implants. But they cannot be offered under the UK NHS because they are seen as 'cosmetic' unless caused by accident. The Dental Surgeon explained that the jaw needs teeth, chewing, slight movement in order to remain healthy. Without tooth action the gums recede = problems. The Surgeon took X-rays of my jaw line to make sure that it was stable enough to accept the implants.
So now I have 3. The lower left requires a lot of daily care as it does collect debris due to a deep gum so lots of Tip-ee use. I HATE toothpaste
![sick02 :sick02:](https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/Smileys/extended/sick02.gif)
so it is hard work, a lot of debris needs removing from that lower one as well as the partner in the top jaw which gets food stuck behind it
![Roll Eyes ::)](https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/Smileys/extended/rolleyes.gif)
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DO NOT allow anyone to talk you into having the whole implant process in a day. One needs to got through the process slowly to allow the bone in the jaw line to 'accept' the what is a foreign body. My procedures took 8-9 months each but can take longer. Once the titanium rod is implanted the jaw needs time to heal. It is easier at this stage to remove the implant should it be necessary, rather than when the whole procedure is done.
If the gums recede there is more chance of infectoin/abscess formation. Good dental hygiene before implants is essential and the Surgeon will advise. Only a certain % of Dentists are qualified in this procedure, initially I had 1 Surgeon who visited my Dentist who is so intrigued that he took the Course himself …….. so he is now qualified to perform the procedure/s at his Practice.
Over brushing doesn't cause gums to recede
![Wink ;)](https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/forum/Smileys/extended/wink.gif)
… it's lack of jaw movement apparently.