Implants
A dental implant is a tooth replacement option for individuals missing one or more teeth. It involves surgically placing a titanium screw into the jawbone, which serves as an artificial tooth root. Over time, the implant integrates with the bone, providing a stable foundation for a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture. Dental implants aim to restore chewing ability and preserve jawbone health. They offer long-term benefits to speech and confidence, making them a popular choice for people seeking a fixed solution for tooth loss.
What are Dental Implants?
Implants are metal screws which become integrated into the jawbone which are then used to support a prosthesis. They can be used to replace one or many teeth, depending on the case and the number of implants placed.
What is involved?
Planning -
your individual case is examined by a dentist and a treatment plan is formulated. In order for implants to be placed, we need good quality bone in abundance. A full assessment of the amount and quality of bone is completed clinically and using x-rays. In some cases where there is insufficient bone, a graft may be required.
The number and location of implants will be planned at this visit. The dentist may need to take scans in order to make a lab-made guide for the day of the surgery.
Surgery -
The surgery to place an implant is divided into two stages. During the first stage surgery, the implant is placed into the bone and is covered over with gum tissue.
The implant is left to heal and integrate into the bone fully. This process of integration usually takes about 3 months, during which your implant will be covered by gum tissue and will not be visible in your mouth.
Once this initial period of healing is complete, a second stage surgery is usually done to re-expose the implant in your mouth and to shape the gum tissues.
Restoring the prosthesis -
About six weeks later, the final prostheses is made. This may be a crown, bridge or denture depending on the case.
Dental Implant FAQs
They are case dependent and this is best discussed with your dentist.
With good oral hygiene and habits, implants are successful 90-95% of the time.
No, it should not be painful and you should be fully numb.