Losing a tooth has more implications than it purely being a cosmetic issue. If not treated, missing teeth can lead to permanent damage as adjacent teeth tend to shift and as consequence, the lips and cheeks may lose their support causing a sunken appearance. Dental implants are an ideal and permanent solution to replace missing teeth.
Dental implants are root-like structures made of titanium or ceramic; materials that are compatible with the body, that serve as the replacement of missing teeth. A dental implant fuses to the jawbone called osseointegration and provides strong support for the tooth which replaces the missing natural tooth.
Why dental implants?
Today dental implants are the best possible solution for missing teeth replacement. Unlike a bridge, implant procedure does not damage the healthy adjacent teeth and preserve the bone. Compared to dentures, bridges, and crowns, dental implants are fixed, durable, and function like natural teeth.
What is the process of having a dental implant?
At your initial consultation, the implantologist will first make a comprehensive examination and an assessment if you are a good candidate for an implant and it is the right option for you. You will also discuss all your medical conditions and medications, pros and cons of the procedure. On the same day, your X-rays and/or your dental impressions will be taken for better assessment.
Your dentist may also recommend you to have a CBCT scan to help them understand exactly how much bone you have and to decide exactly where and how they need to be placed.
In some cases, a bone graft may be necessary to increase the quantity of bone on the site where the implant will be inserted. On the upper jaw if there is no enough bone, a “sinus lift” may be needed to create enough space for the implant to sit.
The implant insertion requires a surgical procedure which is performed at the dental office by the implantologist under a local anesthetic. If you feel anxious about the procedure sedation could be used to help you relax.
What is digital guided implant surgery?
Digital guided implant surgery is a revolutionary method using a combination of CBCT and CAD CAM technologies. This method enables the implantologist to plan and perform the surgery precisely using digital technology.
How is digital-guided implant surgery performed?
The first step of the workflow is to take the patient’s CBCT and digital intraoral scan (digital impressions). Using implant planning software and CAD CAM technology the implantologist will virtually plan and design the implant position, angle, depth accurately. Then a surgical guide will be created using a 3D printer. This customized surgical guide will provide maximum accuracy and precision during the surgical insertion of the implant. This precision eventually affects the stability and success of the implant and the dental restoration.
What is the healing process like?
You can expect some minor discomfort for a couple of days, but that can generally be managed with painkillers and anti-inflammatories. You may be advised to eat soft food, avoid hot beverages, and keep well hydrated. Instructions on how to care for your new implants during healing will be provided by our team.
During insertion, a healing abutment will be placed on top of the implant until it is fused to the jawbone. Healing usually takes 3 to 6 months.
Once the bone healing is completed, your permanent replacement teeth such as crowns, bridges, or hybrid dentures will be prepared and fitted by the dentist.
How successful are dental implants?
The success rate of dental implants varies depending on several factors such as the site where they are inserted, oral care, medical condition, etc. Research suggests that the success rate of dental implants is above 97 % for 10 years. Insufficient jawbone, medical problems, and poor oral hygiene (gum disease) can adversely affect the success rate.
How do I care for dental implants?
Keeping good oral hygiene is important for the long-term stability of the dental implants
- clean with a soft toothbrush twice a day
- floss daily around the implant crown
- rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash after brushing
- visit your hygienist and dentist regularly every 6 months
Do implants need to be replaced?
Implants can last for a lifetime with proper oral hygiene, regular dental/medical check-ups, and avoiding damaging habits such as tooth grinding, smoking, chewing hard and crunchy food, etc.
Benefits of having dental implants
- There is no need to sacrifice healthy teeth to replace a natural missing tooth
- They provide a long-term solution
- They recreate the natural structure of the tooth
- They preserve facial contours and appearance