A dental implant is used to support one or more false teeth. It is a titanium screw that can replace the root of a tooth when it fails. Just like a tooth root, it is placed into the jawbone. The following diagrams show the dental implant procedure. If you need help deciding the right treatment or have some questions to ask, we are happy to help! Send us a quick message on WhatsApp or schedule a tele-consultation session with our doctors today!
A hole is made in the bone.
The implant is placed into the hole in the bone.
The incision is stitched closed.
After healing, a new incision is made over the implant. A metal piece called a healing cap usually is screwed on top of the implant to guide the tissue as it heals.
Later, the healing cap is removed. Then a permanent part, called an abutment, is screwed onto of the implant. It is used to support a crown.
The crown, which is made to look like a natural tooth, is cemented or screwed onto the abutment.
At Pristine Dental, we believe that providing you with sufficient information and a clear idea about your treatment needs and how to maintain good oral health is of utmost importance. This will enable you to make an informed decision about the treatments and what they require. Can't find your answer below? Send us a quick message on WhatsApp or schedule a tele-consultation. We'll reply to you directly!
Medical conditions can affect whether you are eligible to get an implant. Therefore, it is imperative to discuss the extent of your medical condition, in order for your dentist to ascertain your current medical status and eligibility for the dental procedure. Mention few main Diseases-Uncontrolled diabetes.
Age does not affect the ability to receive an implant. However, with age also comes other factors to consider such as the quality of the bone structure and gum health etc. Therefore, it is best to check with the dentist first if you are eligible to get an implant.
Initial healing takes a few days. It takes 2 months for the bone to completely integrate with the implant.
An implant procedure is less painful than an extraction. The first day after treatment is the most uncomfortable, hence the dentist prescribes antibiotics and painkillers to ease the pain/discomfort and reduce symptoms. You might experience some pain, swelling and discomfort around the implant area. However, this discomfort should only last a while and should not hinder you from your daily activities.
Roughly RM6000 per implant and RM2000 for each implant and crown. Refer table below for the differences between dental implants, bridge and denture:
| IMPLANTS | BRIDGE | DENTURE | |
|---|---|---|---|
| COST | Highest | Medium | Lowest |
| TREATMENT TIME | 8-10 weeks | 1 week | 1-2 weeks |
| DURATION (LIFESPAN) | 15-30 years | 10-15 years | 5 years |
| STABILITY | Very stable | Moderate | Less stable |
| COMFORT | Comfortable | Comfortable | Takes time to get used to |
| INVASIVENESS | Small surgery required | Adjacent natural teeth are cut/ prepared | No surgery |
| AFFECT ON CHEWING | Like healthy natural teeth | Like healthy natural teeth | Slippage possible |
| CHANGE IN SPEECH | None | None | Yes |
| BONE PRESERVATION | Yes | No | No-promotes bone loss |
| CONVENIENT CLEANING | Yes | Poor | Yes |
| REPLACEMENT | Takes time to replace/difficult | Difficult | Easy to replace |
Side-effects
Side-effects are the unwanted but mostly temporary affects you may get after having the procedure. You may have some swelling and discomfort around the implant area. If so, you can take an over-thecounter painkiller such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine and if you have any questions, ask your pharmacist for advice.
Complications
As with every procedure, there are some risks associated with dental implant surgery. Complications are when problems occur during or after the procedure. The possible complications of any operation include an unexpected reaction to the anaesthetic, or excessive bleeding.
The nerve that runs to your face has branches that are in your lower jaw. These supply the feeling to your lower jaw, lower teeth and gums and your bottom lip. If the nerves are damaged by the implant, you may feel temporary or sometimes permanent tingling or numbness. It may also be painful. X-rays and CT scans help your dentist to see the position of the nerves in your jawbone to minimise this risk.
Occasionally, the jawbone doesn't fuse with the implant properly and the implant can become loose. This isn't usually painful, but the implant won't be able to support false teeth. You may need to have another implant fitted. Your dentist will ask you to attend regular check-ups to make sure your implants are still secure.