Smile in the City

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant replaces a missing tooth. It looks and functions just like your own tooth.

Dental implants are considered the gold standard in tooth replacement. They are durable and lifelike, and offers you a level of function and consequently self-assurance you’ll wish you knew about years ago. Implants can improve biting efficiency, nutritional intake, aesthetics, stimulate the bone, and much more.

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is a piece of titanium or other materials that looks like a screw. It is put into the jaw where the missing tooth’s roots were. Over time, bone grows around the implant, which helps to hold it in place.

An artificial tooth, or crown, is then attached to the metal to fill in the gap left by the missing tooth. The crown is specially made to look like the other teeth in size, shape and colour.

Dental implants can also be used to hold a bridge or dentures in place.

When might a dental implant be needed?

If you have one or more missing teeth, a dental implant might be a suitable option if you:

• have a fully grown, healthy jawbone
• don’t have gum disease
• don’t have conditions that affect bone healing

Your dentist will discuss with you whether a dental implant procedure is suitable for you.

What happens during a dental implant procedure?

A dental implant is usually done in stages over a few months, with a series of minor operations and tests.

• First, scans and x-rays are done to give the dentist a very clear picture of where to place the implant.
• The dental implant is fitted into the jawbone in a minor operation. You will usually be given an anaesthetic so that you don’t feel pain during the surgery.
• In a few months, the bone grows around the dental implant.
• Once the implant is stable, the dentist will create a foundation for the new tooth or teeth.
• Sometime later, the dentist will take a mould of the mouth to make the artificial tooth or teeth.
• Finally, the artificial tooth or teeth are screwed or cemented into the foundation.

It’s a slow process, with quite a few visits to the dentist and possibly some trips to have scans or x-rays.

What to expect after a dental implant

After any of the minor operations, you might have bruising, pain and swelling of the gums and face. You may also have some bleeding from the gums.

You might need to eat soft foods after each surgery to let the dental implant site heal.

No special care is required for a dental implant. You will probably be advised to keep your natural and artificial teeth clean by brushing and flossing, and have regular dental check-ups.

What are the benefits and risks of a dental implant?

Dental implants are usually successful. Problems are rare but include:

• infection
• injury or damage to surrounding teeth or blood vessels
• nerve damage
• sinus problems

What are the alternatives to a dental implants?

The alternatives to dental implants are wearing dentures or having a bridge done. The advantages of dental implants is they look and feel like your own teeth and they don’t sacrifice the quality of other teeth.