Dental Implants

A dental implant is a titanium screw placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a damaged or lost tooth. It is used for supporting one or more false teeth. Your dentist will conduct several tests to know the condition of your bone. If there is not sufficient bone or it is not health, he/she may not be able to place implant without bone grafting into the first place.

Who is the right candidate for implants?

The suitable candidate for the treatment is one who has good oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed for supporting the implant, and the ideal candidate should have healthy gum tissues that are absolutely free from periodontal disease.

What is the procedure of dental implant?

• Your dentist will be placing the implant into the jawbone.
• He may suggest a diet chart to follow during the healing time.
• The jawbone around the implant is treated in a method known as osseointegration, which is the structural combination between the bone and the implant.
• Some patients may have to wait till the implant is completely integrated, say up to several months, before replacement teeth are attached to the implant.
• On the other hand, other patients can go for implants and replaced teeth placed in a single visit.
• Finally, the dentist will place your artificial tooth/teeth.
• In case of single tooth implant, he will customise a new tooth for you known as a dental crown. The crown is made on the shape, size, colour and fit that will blend in with other teeth.
• If you need to replace more than one teeth, there are custom-made bridges or dentures that will fit your mouth and implants. It may take some time to make your replaced teeth. During this time, the dentist may provide a temporary bridge, crown or denture so that you can eat, chew and speak properly.

Dental implant treatment planning

This process involves team work between you, your dentist and a periodontist. Your dentist and periodontist will discuss with you to know where and how your implant need to be placed. Based on your condition and the kind of implant chosen, he will create a treatment plan particularly for your needs.

• Replace one tooth – If you are missing only one tooth, a crown and an implant can replace it.
• Replace more than one teeth – There are implant-supported bridges that can replace more than one missing teeth.
• Replace all the teeth – You can go for implant-supported bridge or denture for replacing all your teeth.

What are the advantages of dental implant?

• Improve self-esteem and appearance
• Improve speech
• Improve oral health
• Looks and feels like your natural teeth
• Easy to eat and clean artificial teeth
• Protect strong and healthy bone

How long does implants last?

You need to take care of implants so that they may last for several years. However, like other surgical treatments, there is no guarantee on this kind of treatment.