Your teeth were designed to last a lifetime, but sometimes they don’t! Replacing missing teeth is important to your general health and to the health of your other teeth. Not only do you lose chewing ability when a tooth is lost, but unreplaced teeth can cause other teeth to be lost, tipped or crowded and create subsequent problems.

On top of that, there are the obvious problems of poor appearance and loss of self-esteem caused by one or more missing teeth. Dr Ang Chee Wan from T32 Dental Centre tells us why dental implants should always be considered as an option to replace a failing or missing tooth.

 

 

What is implant dentistry?
Implant dentistry is the art and science of replacing missing teeth with titanium fixtures placed in the jawbone. These fixtures are used to support the missing teeth. Some time is necessary for bone to heal completely around the titanium fixtures, after which crowns can be placed via intermediate abutments.
How long is the surgery and is it painful?
In most cases, implant surgeries can be completed in 30 minutes. However, adequate time should be given for the patient to have all his/her questions answered. Also, time should also be allowed for the patient to be prepared for the surgery in an unhurried fashion.

Most implant surgeries are not very painful. In fact, almost 90 percent of my patients do not need painkillers beyond the second day. However, I would recommend for the patient to take the prescribed painkillers on the first day.
Who are suitatable candidatdates for this procedure?
Most patients are suitable candidates for implant treatment. In general, if a patient is in reasonably good health, the patient can undergo dental implant treatment. Patients with conditions like uncontrolled diabetes and high blood pressure are not suitable for dental implant treatment. However, they can still have implant treatment once they have brought those conditions under control.

My advice is to have a thorough examination (including 3-dimensional x-rays) with your dentist or specialist. It is often not advisable to proceed with implant treatment without first having a detailed discussion with your dentist or specialist.
What will happen without treatment?
When a single tooth is lost, the surrounding bone will shrink. Neighboring teeth can drift out of position, and opposing teeth may grow into the space left by the missing tooth. When multiple teeth are lost, patients can look aged due to loss of support for the lips.
Is it expensive and how long do implants last?
The cost of implant treatment is dependent on the following factors:
- Experience and skill level of the specialist
- The brand and reliability of implant used
- The type of material used to fabricate the teeth
- Whether additional adjunct procedures are required
According to current research, implants have a success rate of 95 percent over 10 years. However, over time, parts of the implant may need replacement. Hence, it is important to use implant that is manufactured by reputable companies, as these companies will provide new parts when necessary.
Are there any side effects and will the body reject the implant?
There are unknown side effects of implants and the reported rejection rate of implants is below 1 percent. Titanium is an inert material and is extremely biocompatible. In fact, orthopedic surgeons commonly use titanium to repair bone defects and these devices are left for years with no need for removal.
Do the implants need special maintenance?
Implants are like our natural teeth and need to be cleaned daily. They also need to be checked regularly and be cleaned by the dentists. Professional cleaning of implants is done with special instruments; otherwise the implant surface will be damaged.
How do I choose a dentist for this procedure?
Firstly, find out if the dentist has relevant post-graduate qualifications as implant training is not done in most undergraduate programmes. Besides, the necessary specialist qualifications, the specialist should regularly attend lectures and hands-on course as they are important for constant upgrading of the specialist’s skills and knowledge.

It is also important to see before and after photos of work performed by the specialist as they will provide an idea of the possible final outcome. Last but not least, find out if the specialist will be using modern technology, like 3-dimensional x-rays, and implant planning software, to ensure safety and reliability of your implant treatment.
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Disclaimer: Every care and effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information in Aesthetics & Beauty Guide Singapore(ABGSingapore). All information in ABG Singapore that is written in consultation with medical experts should in no way be construed or regarded as medical advice. The publishers of ABG Singapore take no responsibility for any errors, omissions or misrepresentations, and for any situation that may arise out of any errors, omissions or misrepresentations. The publishers of ABG Singapore and its staff are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from use of products or treatments & articles or contest with products or treatments giveaways through our publication or website. Note to readers: Please consult with your doctor before undergoing any medical aesthetic procedure. No part of this publication shall be reproduced, copies, transmitted, adapted or modified in any form or by any means. This publication shall not be stored in whole or in part in any form in any retrieval system.