Dental implants are currently dentistry’s best and longest-lasting solution to missing teeth and ill fitting dentures.
Dental implants is the process of replacing missing teeth (or a single tooth) that cannot be saved by conventional means and needs to be removed.
Dental implant can replace an individual tooth, or multiple implants can support a dental bridge spanning several or all missing teeth.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
An implant is a tiny screw made of biocompatible material like titanium that replaces the root of a missing tooth.
The implants reside in the jawbone to mimic the roots of teeth. They are used to hold natural-looking crowns, or to stabilize dentures.
The implant is precisely placed into the jawbone in a brief procedure requiring a small incision in the gum tissue or no incision.
Through a natural process called osseointegration, bone gradually fuses with the implant. That creates a solid foundation for your new tooth.
Procedure for Implant Placement
Dental implants procedures are usually completed over two separate sessions Surgical & Restorative but in some cases, the first and second stages of surgery may be done together in one session. We begin with a thorough examination of your mouth, including a detailed medical history, any medication, X-rays & CBCT to determine if dental implants are a good option for you.
Initial Consultation and Planning
- Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation. Our expert team will assess your oral health, take necessary dental X-rays, and discuss your treatment options.
- We use advanced imaging techniques to plan the precise placement of the implant, ensuring the best possible outcome.
Implant Placement Procedure
- The implant placement is a minor surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort.
- A small incision is made in the gum tissue to access the jawbone, where the titanium implant is then carefully inserted.
Attachment of the Crown
- Once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, an abutment is placed on the implant to hold the new tooth.
- A custom-made crown, designed to match your natural teeth, is then securely attached to the abutment.
Preparation for the Implant
- In some cases, preparatory procedures like bone grafting may be necessary to strengthen the jawbone.
- We ensure you are fully informed and comfortable with each step before proceeding.
Healing and Osseointegration
- Following the placement, a period of healing is required, typically ranging from a few weeks to a few months. During this time, osseointegration occurs, where the bone fuses with the implant.
- We closely monitor your progress and ensure optimal healing.
Post-Procedure Care and Follow-up
- Our team provides detailed aftercare instructions and schedules follow-up appointments to check on your implant and overall oral health.
- We are committed to ensuring your comfort and satisfaction throughout the process.
Conventional Implants
During the first stage of your surgery, a dental implant will be put into your jawbone beneath the gum tissue. After the implant has been inserted the gum tissue will be stitched back into place and you will have to wait for the second stage of surgery.
Over the next few months, bone fuses the implant in place. This creates a rock solid foundation for a crown or denture.
All-on-4 or All -on -6
The all-on-4 or All- on- 6 technique allows full-mouth rehabilitation with just 4 or 6 implants on whatever bone is available – either implant-supported fixed teeth, hybrid dentures, or implant overdentures.
Zygomatic and pterygoid implants : are placed in severely resorbed upper arch where conventional implant placement is not possible.
Dental Implants – Advantages
Teeth that look natural
Dental implants are designed to mimic the root structure of natural teeth, providing a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like your natural teeth.They are strong and stable, and you can smile with confidence when you have them.
Bone Health Preservation
When you don’t have a tooth, the empty space in your mouth causes bone loss in both height and width. Dental implants encourage natural bone growth and keep it going, which helps stop bone loss.
Versatility
Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even an entire arch of teeth. They can also be used in conjunction with other dental prosthetics, such as dentures, to provide added stability.
Long-Term Cost Efficiency
While the initial cost of dental implants can be higher than bridges, their durability and longevity can make them more cost-effective in the long run, as they may not require replacement or as many repairs.
Durability
With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a more permanent solution compared to dental bridges, which may need replacement after a certain number of years.
No Impact on Adjacent Teeth
Dental implants stand alone and do not rely on neighboring teeth for support. In contrast, traditional dental bridges require the adjacent teeth to be filed down to accommodate the bridge, potentially compromising their structural integrity.
Improved Chewing and Speaking
Because dental implants are anchored securely in the jawbone, they provide better chewing efficiency and clearer speech compared to some other tooth replacement options.
Post-Procedure Care for Your Dental Implant
Rest and Recovery
- Patients are able to return to their normal activities immediately following the procedure. It is important to remember that some patients may be encouraged to take it easy for a few days in order to allow their mouth adequate time to recover as would be necessary with any surgery.
Consume soft foods
- In the days following your procedure, your diet should consist mainly of soft foods.
Take Prescribed Medications
- If medication is prescribed, make sure to complete the medication as directed.
Avoiding Damaging Habits
- Protect your crowns, artificial teeth, and natural teeth by avoiding hard foods or objects that could cause damage. It's also advisable to steer clear of tobacco and caffeine products. Additionally, if you have a habit of grinding your teeth, seeking treatment can prevent potential damage to your implants.
Gently Clean Your Mouth
- It is important to keep your mouth and the implant free from bacteria. In order to do this, you will still need to brush your teeth daily.rinse with warm salt water post 24 hrs. Take extra precaution to brush softly and avoid any tissue injury.
Regular Dental Checkups
- Regular visits to your dentist are vital for the ongoing health and functionality of your implants. These checkups help in early detection of any potential issues and ensure that your implants remain in top condition.
Long-Term Care
- Dental implants are durable, and long lasting. Once the dental implants have healed and been restored, they become an integrated part of your mouth and require no special care. Proper oral hygiene including brushing, flossing and bi-yearly visits to us will help ensure that they stay healthy.
Taking Care Of Your Dental Implants
- Practice excellent oral hygiene — Keep your natural teeth, implants, artificial teeth, and gum tissue clean. There are specially designed brushes that can help clean the nooks and crannies around teeth, gums, and metal posts.
- See your dentist regularly — Schedule dental checkups to ensure the health and effective functioning of your implants.
- Avoid damaging habits — Try to avoid chewing on hard items or food which can break your crowns, artificial teeth, or natural teeth. Stay away from tobacco and caffeine products, and seek treatment if you grind your teeth.
Some complications that can lead to implant failures include :
- Systemic infection — this may be more likely in patients with uncontrolled diabetes.
- Local infection in the bone and gums supporting the implant body.
- Delayed healing — this may be more likely in patients who smoke.