A dental implant, also called a fixture, is a small, screw-shaped post made of titanium inserted into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Implants are an effective and long-term solution for tooth loss and can help prevent bone loss, preserve your natural facial structure, and improve oral health.
Dental implants are the closest to your natural teeth look, feel and function and are the gold standard for tooth replacement.
Dental implants are a suitable option for most people with missing teeth. However, overall health, oral health, and jawbone density must be considered. Generally, good candidates for implants are those who have healthy gums, adequate bone density, and are committed to maintaining good oral hygiene.
Choosing dental implants over other tooth replacement options, such as dentures or bridges, has many benefits. These benefits include:
While dental implants are a popular and effective tooth replacement option, they may only be suitable for some. Some people may need to be better candidates for implants due to insufficient jawbone density or other health issues. Alternative options, such as dentures or bridges, may be recommended.
Missing teeth can have a significant impact on your oral health and self-confidence. When you lose one or more teeth, it not only affects the appearance of your smile but can also lead to several dental issues, such as bone loss, gum disease, and tooth decay.
The best option for single-tooth replacement is a single dental implant. A single implant involves placing a titanium post into the jawbone and attaching a custom-made crown to the post. The crown will blend in with your existing teeth and restore the function and appearance of the missing tooth.
Your dentist will examine your teeth with the help of X-rays and prepare for the procedure. An implant will be inserted into the jaw bone with a temporary tooth over it. After the implant bonds with the jaw bone, a permanent ceramic tooth called a crown will be placed on the implant and immediately start functioning as one of your natural teeth.
Complex implants may be necessary if you have multiple missing teeth or complex dental issues. Complex implants involve placing multiple implants into the jawbone and attaching a custom-made bridge or denture.
Implant-supported bridges can be used for multiple teeth replacement. First, multiple implants are embedded in key locations within the jaw. Over 2-6 months, the implants bond firmly with the jaw bone to form stable anchors. Temporary teeth may be placed over the implants during this time for better esthetics. The final step involves placing fixed bridges with teeth over the implants.
Choosing the right implant for your needs will depend on several factors, including the number of missing teeth, your overall oral health, and your budget. Your dentist will evaluate your condition and recommend the best implant option.
Our dental implants are custom-made using medical-grade titanium, and they are inserted into the jawbone to act as the supporting base or root for replacement teeth. If you want implants inserted in all corners of the mouth (i.e. replace your natural teeth entirely), we use fewer implants and support them with an implant bridge.
Our dental implants are placed by a specialist and fit your mouth like natural teeth. The fixtures are implanted evenly – even at the back of the mouth. The arches are tailored to provide maximum stability in the teeth replacement process.
Before you undergo dental implant surgery, your dentist will evaluate your oral health and determine whether you're a suitable candidate. They will also provide instructions on how to prepare for the surgery. Here are a few things to keep in mind before your dental implant procedure:
During the dental implant, your dentist will first administer anaesthesia to numb the area. They will then make a small incision in the gum tissue and insert the implant into the jawbone. Once the implant is in place, the gum tissue will be closed with stitches, and a temporary crown may be placed over the implant.
The entire procedure can take a few hours, depending on the number of implants placed. You will be monitored during the procedure to ensure your comfort and safety.
After the dental implant procedure, you may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bleeding. Your dentist will provide instructions on managing these symptoms and promoting healing. Here are a few things to expect after the procedure:
Dental implants have a high success rate and can last a lifetime with proper care. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), dental implants have a success rate of over 95%. Factors that can affect the prognosis of dental implants include overall health, oral hygiene, and the quality of the bone at the implant site.
Like any surgical procedure, dental implant surgery carries some risks. These risks include infection, nerve damage, implant failure, and bleeding. However, these risks are relatively rare, and your dentist will take steps to minimise the risk of complications.
Once your dental implant procedure is complete, properly caring for your implants is essential to ensure their longevity. Follow these tips to maintain your dental implants:
If any of the following occur during the recovery or maintenance phase, it is important to contact your dentist to seek urgent advice on how best to manage your issues, as often early intervention can result in a return to the long-term health of the dental implant.
In some cases, dental implant surgery may need to be delayed due to infection or insufficient bone density. In these cases, your dentist may recommend a bone graft or other procedures to prepare the site for the implant. Delaying the procedure can help ensure a successful outcome and reduce the risk of complications.
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