Dental Implants
The Modern Solution for Missing Teeth
Dental implants are the most advanced and reliable treatment option to replace a missing tooth.Over the years, dentistry has progressed from removable dentures to fixed bridges, and today, inthe 21st century, dental implants represent the closest alternative to natural teeth.An implant is designed to mimic a real tooth. It has two main components:
■ A titanium screw, which acts like the root of the tooth and is placed in the jawbone.
■ A crown (cap), which is fixed over the implant and functions like the visible part of the tooth.
Together, these components look, feel, and function very much like a natural tooth, restoring bothyour smile and chewing ability with long-term stability.
WHY IMPLANTS ?
1. Preserves Natural Teeth
o Implants don’t require cutting or grinding the adjacent healthy teeth, unlike bridges.
2. Bone Preservation
o Implants stimulate the jawbone like natural tooth roots, preventing bone loss.
o Bridges don’t support the bone, leading to gradual shrinkage in the missing tootharea.
3. Longevity & Durability
o With proper care, implants can last a lifetime.
o Bridges usually last 7–10 years before needing replacement.
4. Better Function & Comfort
o Implants feel and function like natural teeth, offering better chewing efficiency.
o Bridges may feel less stable and sometimes trap food.
5. Aesthetic Superiority
o Implants emerge naturally from the gums, giving a life-like appearance.
o Bridges may sometimes show margins or affect gum health over time.
6. Easier Maintenance
o Implants can be cleaned like natural teeth with regular brushing and flossing.
o Bridges require special floss threaders or cleaning aids.
TIME NEEDED TO REPLACE A MISSING TOOTH WITH IMPLANTS?
1. Immediate Implant (Same Day Option)
o If bone and gums are healthy, the implant can be placed on the same day as toothremoval.
o A temporary crown may be given the same day, with the final crown after 3–4months of healing.
2. Standard Implant (Most Common)
o Step 1: Implant placement → healing for 3–6 months (time for bone to fuse withimplant, called osseointegration).
o Step 2: Crown placement (permanent tooth).
3. Cases with Bone Grafting / Sinus Lift
o If bone is insufficient, grafting is done first.
o Healing may take 4–9 months before implant placement and crown fitting.