What are dental implants?

Dental implants are made of pure titanium and are secured within our jaws. They are the gold standard for replacing, single, multiple, or even all of our missing teeth.

There are 3 main components to every dental implant: crown, abutment, and an implant. The crown is the tooth that you see. The abutment is the connecting piece that links the crown to the implant. These three components are made to fit together with absolute precision and held together with a gold or titanium screw internally.

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Why get implants?

Implants have several advantages over dentures and bridges

Implants:

• are more natural and comfortable

• improve chewing function

• lead to a lower risk of cavities developing in nearby teeth

• lead to better maintenance of bone at the site of the lost tooth

• cause decreased sensitivity in nearby teeth

• do not need to be taken out and cleaned every night

• does not require preparation of the neighboring teeth

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However, dental implants are not suitable for everyone. Your dentist will assess whether you are suitable for dental implants at your implant consultation.

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Timeline

1. Place the implant(s) surgically.

2. Give you time to heal. (commonly 3-9months)

3. Attach the post and final crown, bridge or denture.

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How long does it take to recover after dental implants?

Initial healing takes about 1-2 weeks. But it takes commonly between three to nine months for your jawbone to fuse around the implant (a process called osseointegration). This process stabilizes your implant so you can use it just like a natural tooth.

Your dentist will check on your progress. Once the implant heals, it’s safe to add the restoration (crown, bridge or denture).

 

 

 

Please note : The timeline may vary depending on your situation. You may require additional treatment e.g. bone graft if you don't have enough bone for an implant. This will be discussed at your implant consultation.