A missing tooth can be more than just a cosmetic concern. It can affect your speech, ability to chew, and even your confidence. Thankfully, dental implant surgery offers a long-lasting and natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth.
What are Dental Implants?
Think of dental implants as artificial tooth roots. Made from biocompatible titanium, these small screws are surgically placed into your jawbone. Over time, the implant fuses with the bone, creating a strong foundation for a replacement tooth. This replacement tooth can be a crown, bridge, or denture, depending on your needs.
The Steps Involved in Dental Implant Surgery
Dental implant surgery is typically an outpatient procedure performed in stages:
Consultation and Planning: A thorough examination with X-rays and CT scans will be conducted to assess your jawbone health and suitability for implants.
Implant Placement: Under local anesthesia, the implant is surgically inserted into the jawbone. Stitches may be used to close the incision.
Healing and Osseointegration: The jawbone heals and integrates with the implant over several months. During this time, you can still brush your teeth, eat normally and travel as you wish.
Abutment Placement: Once healed, a small connector piece called an abutment is attached to the implant.
Crown Placement: The final restoration, usually a custom-made dental crown, is secured onto the abutment, providing a natural-looking and functional tooth replacement.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer numerous advantages over traditional bridges or dentures:
Durability and Stability: Implants fuse with the jawbone, mimicking the function of a natural tooth root. This provides exceptional stability and strength for a long-lasting solution.
Improved Function: Implants allow you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence, restoring natural chewing ability.
Preserves Jawbone Health: Unlike bridges that rely on surrounding teeth for support, implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining facial structure.
Natural Appearance: Dental implants are designed to blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, providing a natural-looking smile.
Long-Term Investment: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them a cost-effective option in the long run.
Implants vs. Bridges: Understanding the Difference
While both bridges and implants address missing teeth, they differ in their approach:
Dental Bridges: These rely on healthy teeth on either side of the gap to support a replacement tooth. Healthy teeth need to be ground down to accommodate the bridge, potentially compromising their health.
Dental Implants: Stand alone and don’t require altering adjacent teeth. This preserves healthy tooth structure and provides a more natural, long-term solution.
Considering Dental Implants?
If you’re looking for a permanent and natural-looking solution to replace missing teeth, dental implants may be the right choice for you. Schedule a consultation with Dr Benedict Wong, our experienced family dentist at WE Dental Clinic in Singapore to discuss your individual needs and determine if implants are a suitable option.
