Dental Implant

Dental Implant

Dental Implant

Dental Implant

is an artificial tooth root, or titanium fitting, that is surgically secured to the jawbone. The light and durable metal implant acts as an anchor for a crown, bridge or denture.

The Dental implant, which is made from titanium alloy, is fabricated in such a way that it mimics a tooth root. This light and durable implant fixture will then act as a stable foundation to hold prostheses such as crowns, bridges or dentures.

Since the implant fixture fuses to the bone, the patient will feel as if he/she grew a new tooth. Given that the artificial tooth that will be attached matches the natural teeth, it will look and feel authentic.

As with other prosthesis and restoration, this can last a lifetime depending on how you take care of them. Dental implant is a form of restoration and prosthesis; Therefore, several factors like trauma, gum disease and poor oral hygiene will also affect and damage your implant supported teeth as it will damage other forms of restoration.

Benefits of
Dental Implant

Naturally replaces missing teeth

Supports a single or full bridge

Eliminates the need for a partial removable denture

Helps prevent bone loss and gum recession

Makes it easier to chew, eat, talk and smile!

Fuses to living bone for that real tooth feel

Makes dentures more comfortable and secure

Eliminates messy denture glues and pastes

Eliminates wrinkles on your face giving you a younger appearance

Requires no adhesives, removals, soaking or cleaning

Provides a reliable, long-term dental solution that can last a lifetime!

Procedure of
Dental Implant

The dental implant process typically involves 3-4 trips to the dentist over a 3 to 6 month period. The surgical procedure is usually carried out under local anesthesia. In most cases, you can resume normal activities the day following the placement of your implant fixtures.

  • Assessment
    Before any implants are placed, it is important for your dentist to assess the health of your teeth and gums. If there are any signs of gum disease or decay, these must be treated first. Following this, your treatment will be designed after taking a cast,radiographs and a CT scan to evaluate the bone quality and check for nearby anatomical structures to avoid before any drilling.
  • Implant
    After measuring where the implant is to be placed,the gum is cut and opened to expose bone. A series of drills will be used to widen the site making a socket in preparation for the seating of the implant fixture. The titanium implant is then fitted into this socket and the gums will be stitched back to cover the bone and implant. If there is insufficient bone material to accommodate the implant, a bone graft may be required.
  • Healing
    Once the implant has been placed it is left to heal and integrate with the jawbone for between 6 weeks to 6 months. The bone tissue will grow and anchor itself into the microscopic rough surface of the implant. During this “healing period” patients are given temporary teeth (bridges) or continue to wear dentures. It is important that any temporary teeth do not exert any forces on the healing implant. After the healing period the gum is lifted again and a post is attached to the implant with a temporary crown. A week later when the surrounding gum tissue has matured, the final permanent restoration can be fitted to the implant.
  • Follow-up Treatment
    Along with normal brushing and flossing, a periodic check-up with your dentist is required. They will check the individual implants and clean around the posts every 4 months. Dental implants do not suffer from normal teeth problems such as decay and hot/cold sensitivity.
Dental Implant

What You Need To Know
About Dental Implants

Risk of implant failure include:

  • Heavy Smoking
    Heavy smoking slows down and hinders the healing process.
  • Excessive Alcohol Intake
    Excessive drinking of alcohol disrupts healing of the gums.
  • Periodontal Gum Disease
    All active gum disease must be treated prior to any implant procedure to ensure long term success of any treatment. Periodontal disease is a major cause of bone loss, which would hinder the success of any implant procedure.
  • Immuno-Compromised Individuals
    This includes steroids, auto-immune disease and patients undergoing radiation treatment.
  • Teeth Grinders (Bruxism)
    A night time splint can be given to treat this.