What are Dental Implants?
Dental Implants are a prosthesis that emulate the form and function of natural teeth. A titanium fixture is placed in the jawbone and acts as support to the missing tooth or teeth. After a period of time, bone fuses with the titanium implant and a prosthesis is introduced. Examples of the types of prosthesis include a crown, a bridge and even dentures.
What are the benefits of Dental Implants?
Dental Implants offer patients many benefits with minimal downsides and are considered to be the gold standard in replacing missing teeth.
Benefits include but are not limited to:
Natural Confidence
Missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures can have a negative impact on a patient’s self-esteem, causing them to avoid social activities, smiling or speaking. Fixed in the mouth, crowns and bridges supported by implants feel almost natural. Even with implant supported dentures, the denture clips onto the implant, giving patients added security and confidence to smile. No fear of loose dentures slipping out mid conversation!
Better ability to Enjoy Eating
As Singaporeans, we live to eat. As people lose teeth, chewing efficacy is affected resulting in a change of diet. With dental implants, we are able to replace missing teeth and even stabilise dentures, allowing good chewing ability and helping us to enjoy our food better. A soft diet because of missing teeth is a thing of the past.
Protecting Bone & Teeth
Upon extraction of teeth, tipping of adjacent teeth, over eruption of opposing teeth and bone loss occurs. The placing of a dental implant prevents movement of other teeth and has the added benefit of bone retention as compared to a bridge or denture.
Anti-Aging Effect
The loss of multiple teeth can result in a sunken appearance of the face. Replacing teeth with implants to support the lip and cheek can improve facial aesthetics.
High Success Rate
At Alpha Dental, we are equipped with the latest dental technologies to improve the predictability and ensure the safety of our dental implants. 3 Dimensional CBCT and intraoral scanners are used together with CADCAM technology to aid in our diagnosis, treatment planning and to improve implant placement accuracy, thereby contributing a higher rate of success.
You would benefit from a Dental Implant, if you 1) Have one or more missing teeth
2) Have a tooth beyond restoration that is due to be extracted
3) Have trouble wearing dentures
4) Have insufficient teeth for a tooth supported bridge
5) Wish to preserve the remaining teeth and bone
What is the process of getting a Dental Implant like?
At the initial consultation appointment,
Your dentist will first listen to your needs and preferences, before meticulously analysing the current state of your medical and oral health to determine your suitability for dental implant surgery.
A 3D CBCT X-ray and intraoral scan is taken so we can accurately measure the amount of bone present and digitally establish the ideal position for implant placement.
Your dentist will also clearly discuss the clinical findings as well as treatment options available for your consideration.
Sinus Lift or Bone Augmentation Surgery
In the event that there is inadequate bone for an implant, some patients may require a Sinus lift or Bone grafting procedure before an implant can be placed. Following this procedure, a period of at least 3 months is allowed for new bone to stabilise.
Implant Surgery
After ascertaining adequate bone is present, the placing of a Titanium Implant fixture in the bone can be carried out under local anaesthesia. With the 3D x-ray and intraoral scan taken prior, a surgical guide can be digitally designed and printed to optimize the speed and accuracy of the implant placement.
Osseointegration
After the titanium fixture has been placed, there is a waiting period of a few months while the bone fuses to the implant, before the final prosthesis can be attached.
The long-term success of the implant is dependent on osseointegration and varies from individual to individual. It can not be rushed.
Final Prosthesis
Upon successful osseointegration of the titanium implant to the bone, a bespoke prosthesis is made according to your dental needs and fixed onto your implants, leaving you a natural & improved smile.
Regular Dental checkups and good at home oral hygiene care is necessary for good dental implant longevity.