Patient Education

DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dental implant therapy has been around for many years with a proven track record. Improvements in materials and surgical techniques have made dental implants the gold standard treatment in many instances of replacing missing teeth.

What are dental implants?

A dental implant is essentially a substitute for a missing tooth root. It is commonly cylinder- or screw-shaped. Each implant is carefully and precisely drilled into the intended location of the tooth and provides a foundation for long-term support of replacement teeth.

Almost all dental implants in use today are made from titanium or titanium alloy. These materials have been shown to be well-tolerated by bone. The terms 'osseointegrated implants' and 'endosseous implants' are widely used to describe dental implants that can develop and maintain a close union with bone in order to support replacement teeth.

Who is a suitable candidate for dental implants?

Implant therapy can be applied in many situations where teeth are lost and need to be replaced. Conventional dental implants have a good track record of survival in the human jaw; this can range from 85-95% after 5 years. Successful treatment is dependent on the replacement tooth or teeth. These are usually fabricated in metal or ceramic as in conventional crowns and bridges, and then attached to the implant. The selection and correct placement of the implant is thus very important as it will determine the position of the final replacement and whether it can withstand the load of biting forces over time.

Implant therapy may not be appropriate for heavy smokers and uncontrolled diabetics, as well as those in poor general health due to impaired bodily healing capabilities. Patients with poor oral hygiene or a history of severe gum disease should have their gum disease treated first before undergoing dental implant therapy. Other factors such as the volume and quality of the bone; position and status of neighbouring teeth; and jaw relationship will need to be taken into consideration when assessing suitability for implant therapy.

How long does the treatment take to complete?

It normally takes between 4 months and a year to complete the entire treatment. This would depend on case complexity as well as the need for additional procedures like bone grafting. 'Immediate loading' implant, whereby the entire implant treatment is completed within the same day, is possible for selected cases.

How do I maintain these implants?

These 'new teeth' are maintained in much the same way as normal teeth. Specific brushing and flossing techniques will be taught and regular dental checks on the implants will be conducted. Good oral hygiene is required to ensure the long-term success of your implants.

For how long will the implant fixtures stay in the bone?

If the titanium fixtures have successfully integrated to the bone and are properly maintained, they should last for many years. However, just as you would expect conventional crowns, bridges and fillings to need occasional repairs or replacements during the course of their lifetimes, your implant-supported teeth may also need similar maintenance.

What should I be aware of when considering implant treatment?

Implant treatment is complex and costs considerably more than other conventional methods of replacing teeth (e.g. dentures and bridges). While it may be portrayed as a very attractive treatment, patients must be aware that all treatments carry a risk of failure. As implants are placed into the bone, often through a small surgery, and subsequently fused with the jaw bone, they are not easily removed. The ability of the patient to maintain the implant through good oral hygiene and homecare is critical to the long-term success of the procedure. Implant loss may result from gum infections; hence, the ability to clean the implant adequately is strongly emphasised.

Successful implant treatment requires a thorough understanding of the individual oral condition of each patient, careful evaluation of the patient's desires and meticulous planning - the assessment of the implant site, the selection of the implant system and the design of the replacement tooth. Patients should also be aware that there are alternatives to implant therapy; the dental surgeon should adequately discuss and explore these possibilities prior to decision-making.