A dental implant is a strong, small post made from biocompatible metals or ceramics. It comprises three key components: the dental implant itself, the abutment and the crown.

The dental implant, resembling a tiny titanium screw, is surgically placed into the jawbone under local anaesthesia. It acts as a replacement for a natural tooth's root, bonding with the bone. This process sets the foundation to replace missing teeth. Once in place, the dental implant securely supports one or more replacement teeth, referred to as crowns.

The abutment is a connector fixed on or within the top of the dental implant. It serves as a linking point and offers additional support for the crown.

The crown, essentially the replacement tooth, is custom-made to replicate the appearance, shape, and fit of other natural teeth. It is then affixed onto the abutment, completing the tooth replacement process.

The dental implant procedure typically follows a set of standard steps and requires multiple visits to complete. Initially, a qualified dental professional conducts a thorough assessment, including reviewing the patient's history, performing a dental examination, and discussing a comprehensive treatment plan. Since each patient is unique, the overall treatment duration varies based on individual needs, medical and dental history, jawbone health, and the chosen technique and materials. The timeframe can range from a few months to over a year, particularly for more complex cases.

The next stage involves the placement of the dental implant under local anaesthesia. After this surgical procedure, patients need time to heal before proceeding to the restoration phase. During the healing period, typically lasting from a few weeks to a few months, it is crucial to maintain good oral hygiene. This time allows for the bone around the dental implant to grow and fuse with the implant surface, a process known as osseointegration. For support during the healing phase, a temporary restoration may be affixed to the dental implant at the time of surgery.

Once adequate healing has taken place, an impression of the dental implant site is taken by the dental professional. This impression is sent to a dental laboratory where a custom-fitted crown (or bridge for multiple teeth replacement) is crafted to fit the patient's mouth precisely. After fabrication, the crown or bridge is then securely installed.

Both patients and the dental teams of our selected clinics play pivotal roles in ensuring the long-term success of dental implant procedures. Our partnered clinics will create personalized oral care plans for each patient and provide tailored advice on effective cleaning methods depending on the specific treatment received. Much like caring for natural teeth, dental implants can accumulate tartar, emphasizing the importance of diligent oral care for the sustained success of your new teeth. Here are essential long-term care instructions:

Use a soft toothbrush (replace regularly) or an electric toothbrush for thorough teeth cleaning.

Employ recommended cleaning aids, such as interdental brushes or irrigation devices, to clean the gaps between teeth.

Brush teeth meticulously on all sides, including the inside, outside, and the top surfaces where chewing takes place.

Regular check-ups and preventive visits to the dentist are indispensable for maintaining the health of your new teeth.

Similar to any surgical procedure, you may experience some discomfort during and after dental implant surgery. It's important to note that each patient's healing process is unique. Your surgeon will collaborate with you before, during, and after the surgery to ensure your comfort to the best extent possible.

When well taken care of, dental implants are designed to endure for numerous years, and in many cases, more than decades. Dentists have been successfully utilizing dental implants for replacing missing teeth for a considerable period, and advancements in technology only enhance their durability. Dental implant surgery, particularly when conducted by a skilled and proficient implantologist, is regarded as one of the safest and most reliable procedures within the field of dentistry.

Dental implants stand out as an authentic and long-term solution for filling gaps caused by missing teeth. Dental implants offer stability during speech, laughter, and eating. Moreover, they contribute to the health of your jawbone and preserve your facial structure.

Whether you need to replace one tooth or multiple teeth, our selected clinics present a range of products designed to give you replacement teeth that look and feel natural. Your dentist is your best resource for exploring the tooth replacement options that suit your individual needs. Feel free to start a conversation with the TeethToday concierge service to get support from your personal dental implant consultant.

Dental implants offer significant advantages over traditional solutions like dentures and removable appliances, as they closely resemble the look, feel, and function of natural teeth. Moreover, they aid in preventing bone loss that can occur when tooth roots are missing and don't necessitate altering adjacent teeth. Here are key reasons to consider upgrading to dental implants:

• Dental implants seamlessly integrate with your body: Unlike prosthetics, a dental implant is an artificial root that, once healed, melds with your body, behaving just like a natural root.

• Preservation of facial structure: Dental implants, firmly anchored in the bone, effectively transmit chewing forces, promoting a healthy jaw and preserving facial structure. This is a significant advantage over traditional dentures which may not maintain facial aesthetics.

• Enhancement and maintenance of your smile: Dental implants restore missing teeth without any visible difference, enhancing both functionality and appearance. They eliminate the need for extensive maintenance, offering a hassle-free experience.

• Improved comfort in daily activities: Dental implants closely mimic the look and feel of natural teeth, providing comfort while speaking, smiling, and eating. Unlike alternative tooth replacement options, they do not shift or create clicking sounds during these activities.

When a tooth is lost and not replaced, the bone that once supported the tooth starts to diminish as it no longer serves a purpose. This can result in bone loss around nearby teeth, potentially causing harm and eventual loss of these adjacent teeth. Ultimately, this cycle may lead to further tooth loss. Despite the multi-step nature of dental implant procedures, replacing even a single missing tooth can often be completed in a day and can contribute to safeguarding surrounding unaffected teeth from future harm. Dental implants are crafted to expedite the restoration process.

As with all surgical procedures, there are risks to be aware of when considering dental implants. The most common problem is infection (peri-implantitis) that can affect the gums and the jawbone, but it is also possible for the dental implant to not fuse with the jawbone properly. Your dentist will plan treatment to minimise the risks. It is also important that you look after your implants with good oral hygiene.