Everything you need to know about Dental Implants

Dental implants are medical devices surgically inserted into the jawbone to restore a person's chewing function or appearance. They serve as a foundation for artificial teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures.

Background

When a tooth is lost due to injury or disease, it can lead to complications such as rapid bone loss, impaired speech, or altered chewing patterns that cause discomfort. Replacing the lost tooth with a dental implant can greatly enhance the patient's quality of life and overall health.

Dental implant systems comprise a dental implant body, a dental implant abutment, and sometimes an abutment fixation screw. The dental implant body is surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the tooth's root. The dental implant abutment, usually connected to the implant body by the abutment fixation screw, extends through the gums into the mouth to support the attached artificial teeth.

The cost of a single tooth dental implant in Singapore typically falls between $2,300 and $6,000 (before Medisave). This fee covers both the dental implant surgery and the cost of the dental crown.

Recommendations for Patients

Before opting for dental implants, consult with EZ DENTAL CARE about the potential benefits and risks, and assess if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. Consider the following:

Your overall health is crucial in determining your suitability for dental implants, the healing duration, and the longevity of the implant.
Inquire about the brand and model of the dental implant system being used.
Smoking can impair the healing process and reduce the long-term success of the implant.
The healing process for the implant body may take several months or longer, during which you will typically have a temporary abutment in place of the tooth.

After the dental implant procedure:

Follow the oral hygiene instructions provided by EZ DENTAL CARE carefully. Regularly cleaning the implant and surrounding teeth is essential for the long-term success of the implant.
Schedule regular visits with EZ DENTAL CARE.
If your implant feels loose or painful, inform EZ DENTAL CARE immediately.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants can greatly enhance the quality of life and health for those who need them.

Restores chewing ability
Enhances cosmetic appearance
Prevents jawbone shrinkage due to bone loss
Maintains the health of surrounding bone and gums
Stabilizes adjacent teeth
Improves overall quality of life

Dental Implant Treatment Process

The dental implant process typically involves several stages and can take several months to complete. Here is an overview of the steps involved:

Initial Consultation:
Comprehensive dental examination, including X-rays and 3D imaging.
Assessment of the patient’s overall health and suitability for the procedure.
Treatment planning and discussion of options.
Tooth Extraction (if necessary):
- Removal of the damaged tooth, if it hasn't already been extracted.
- Healing period of a few weeks may be required.
Bone Grafting (if necessary):
- If the jawbone is not thick enough or too soft, bone grafting may be needed.
- Healing and integration of the graft can take several months.
Implant Placement:
- Surgical insertion of the dental implant into the jawbone.
- Healing period of 3 to 6 months to allow osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the bone.
Abutment Placement:
- Once the implant is firmly integrated, an abutment is placed on top of the implant.
- Gums are allowed to heal around the abutment, which may take a couple of weeks.
Artificial Tooth Placement:
- Custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is created and attached to the abutment.
- Adjustments are made for proper fit and comfort.
Follow-Up Visits:
- Regular check-ups to ensure the implant is functioning well and to maintain oral hygiene.

The entire process, from initial consultation to the final placement of the artificial tooth, can take anywhere from 3 to 9 months or more, depending on individual circumstances.