Dental implants, also known as tooth implants is an artificial tooth root or a titanium fitting that is secured to the jawbone by surgery. The metal implant that is light and durable acts as an anchor for false tooth or a set of false tooth if many. You might be interested in getting dental implants or just curious on what is the procedure for dental implants in the Philippines. Keep on reading and we’ll help you with the information.

Why do people opt for dental implants more than dentures? Dentures might be quite cheaper than dental implants, but they could slip off your mouth without a denture adhesive or paste. Some partial dentures could cause tooth decay if they don’t fit properly. With dental implants, they are sure to be tightly fit since it is secured to your jawbone with a metal implant.

Dental implant procedures here in the Philippines have little to not much difference. We’ll be tackling more of that on this article. For now, here are some of the things you need to know about the procedure of dental implants in the Philippines.

1. Who are candidates for dental implant surgery?

This may be anyone who has the following; (1) Has a one or more missing teeth, (2) damaged tooth, (3) good oral hygiene, (4) sufficient bone in their jaws to support the implants, and (5) has overall decent physical health. Before undergoing the procedure, your dentist will eventually examine your overall oral and physical health (yes, physical health counts!) if you are fit to undergo dental implant procedure.

2. Is this in an in-patient surgery?

No. it doesn’t require going to the operating room. This procedure requires outpatient care and is performed in different stages.

Now, onto the procedure.

Preliminary – Initial examination

As mentioned above, an initial consultation with your dental surgeon before implant therapy.

The consultation consists of a rigorous clinical examination, an x-ray of the head, jaws, and teeth. There could also be medical questionnaires such as allergies, medications that are taken regularly, etc.) This is to secure the eligibility of the patient to undergo the procedure. A questionnaire of the patient’s dental history will be given out as well.

In some cases, when a patient lacks bone or gum tissue, the surgeon must perform a gingival or a bone graft to restore the right level that allows the placement of dental implants. The patient must then wait for the jaws and gums to be in good health. This could take up from weeks to months (4-12 months).

Surgery Procedure

The surgery is usually done in the dentist’s office under local anesthesia. A sedative can be administered by the surgeon to relax the patient during surgery. In rare cases, general anesthesia at the hospital can be used for the procedure.

Here are the steps on placing the implant;

1. The surgeon begins by exposing the jawbone by making an incision in the gum where the dental implant will be placed.
2. A small hole in the bone of the jaw will be prepared by the surgeon. The surgeon will also make sure that it will not affect neighboring nerves and the sinuses.
3. The dental implant is then placed, making it similar to the level of the bone under the gums.
4. A period ranging of 3-6 months is necessary for the jawbone to fuse with the implant—also called as osseointegration.

Abutment Placement

Your surgeon will confirm once the osseointegration is complete. If it has been  completed, an abutment—a piece where the crown will eventually attach, will be placed on the dental implant. And again, your dental surgeon must reopen your gum to expose the dental implant. Your surgeon might place a cover screw type of abutment or a healing abutment.

After that, a healing period will be required to complete the healing of the gums before proceeding to the next stage.

Artificial Teeth

When all healing process is complete, your dentist will install the final artificial prosthesis—which is a crown, bridge or denture on the abutment of the dental implant. The prosthesis is made in the laboratory using models and photos of the patient.

This is the last stage of the treatment and allows the patient to regain normal chewing function as well as a better facial aesthetic!

There isn’t much of a difference between having your dental implants done abroad and the Philippines, aside from the price. Some dental clinics offer flexible payments and offer services that will be of good help to your dental concerns. Remember that you have to find a dentist that you are comfortable with. Aside from that, make sure they are experts in their field so that you can be confident and place your trust in their hands.

If you are looking for a dental clinic with excellent services with any kind of dental care, come visit us at our dental clinic in Manila! For inquiries, you may also contact us today!