Dental Implants Inquiry

Frequently asked questions

Am I suitable for dental implant treatment?

If you are in acceptably good health, dental implant treatment is suitable and safe. Heavy smoking can increase the risk of having complications during the initial healing period and also has been shown to have negative effects on the long-term health of gum and bone surrounding the implant and natural teeth. It is best to consult your dental professional regarding any concerns that you may have regarding your health issues and dental implant treatment.

What are the chances of success and are there any risks involved?

Studies have shown high success rates of up to 97% or above for 10 years with regards to single tooth implants. There are some minorities of implants which fail to integrate with the jaw bone after placement, or lose their surrounding bone support; sometimes these implants have to be removed and replaced. Implanted artificial teeth still require the same amount of care that you would give to your other natural teeth for them to last a long time. Implant surgery is a simple and safe procedure; most risks relate to the presence of structures like the nerves or the maxillary sinuses in the jaw bones close to the implant site, which is the reason that radiological examinations are required.

Would artificial tooth implants look and feel the same as my natural teeth?

The artificial teeth should look like your natural teeth as the visible portions of the teeth are made of ceramics. They may not feel exactly the same as natural teeth because natural teeth have a thin cushioning layer between them and the underlying bone, whereas dental implants are in direct rigid contact with bone.

What are my alternatives?

The available treatment options for replacement of missing teeth will vary for different situations but generally include bridges or dentures.

Are artificial tooth implants better than bridges or dentures?

Generally yes. Dental implants do not require additional treatment or violation of the adjacent teeth, as is the case for bridges. Dental implants are the most predictable treatment for missing tooth replacement. They are superior to dentures in terms of comfort, bite force and practicality.

Is it painful to have a dental implant?

No, such surgeries done under anaesthesia are painless. Many people are fearful of dental treatment and that is understandable. In fact, many patients who have had dental implant surgery report minimal pain after the surgery and most think that the surgery is relatively pleasant compared to other oral surgeries. After surgery, pain and discomfort should generally be minimal and well controlled with painkillers which you will be given. It is advisable to start taking these before the local anesthesia wears off.

What happens after the implant surgery?

You should be able to eat normally after the surgery but a soft diet is advisable. Smoking should be avoided following an implant surgery as it is attributed to higher failure rates.

What do I have to do when I go home?

Nothing out of the ordinary. You should be able to return to work soon after your treatment. You will be given individualized advice on maintaining your implants both after surgery and when the artificial teeth are finally fitted in.

How about follow up appointments?

Dental implants require regular follow up and maintenance. It is important to clean them as you would clean your natural teeth so as to ensure the best possible outcome.

Written by: Dr Debbie Hong