A dental implant is a small screw-like device that is placed into the jawbone, to replace a natural tooth. The implant acts like a tooth's roots, and over time the dental implant becomes fused to the natural bone, making it stable.
Dental implants are used on patients who are missing teeth and are looking for a fixed, permanent solution which will enable them to feel confident in their looks, as well as being able to eat and talk comfortably.
Normally, the implant is placed into the jawbone and then allowed to heal (and fuse to the bone or "osseointegrate") for between 6 weeks to 6 months. This allows the implant to heal without coming under pressure from chewing, and reduces the risk of implant failure. Once the implant is secure, the dentist will take an impression of the mouth in order to create a crown to sit on top of the implant and abutment (the connector in between the two).
The time needed between implant placement and the attachment of the final prosthesis may vary case by case, based on the density of the jawbone and other variables. Some clinics advise that 6 weeks is enough, and other clinics offer new teeth in a day, using systems such as Straumann's Instant Load dental implants.
A dental implant can be used to support a single tooth, but can also form part of a full mouth restoration. Options like All-on-4 and other Implant-Supported Dental Bridges and Implant-Supported Overdentures use a few strategically placed dental implants to hold a full arch (up to 10 or 12 teeth).
Recommended for
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Patients with missing teeth
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Patients with teeth that cannot be saved and require extraction
ABOUT DENTAL IMPLANT
TIME REQUIREMENTS
Average length of stay abroad: 2 - 3 days.The first trip usually takes a few days. The second trip may take longer, depending on how long it takes for the crown(s) or bridge to be created.
Number of trips abroad needed: 2.
Usually patients need to travel twice, with a 2 to 6 month break in between. Some clinics offer "instant load" implants which can be done in a single visit.
Take the next steps in your medical journey by inquiring with Healthticket. Our Care Team will help you to find the right clinic, and get your free treatment plan and cost estimate.
Interested in Dental Implant abroad?
It is important to have a thorough evaluation before a treatment plan can be created, and patients are asked to send dental X-rays to the dentist planning the treatment. If necessary, these can usually be obtained from a local dentist for a fee. It is important so that the dentist can assess whether or not a bone graft is needed, and how long the overall treatment will take. Minor bone grafting can be done at the same time as implant placement, but more complex bone grafts need time to settle.
BEFORE DENTAL IMPLANT ABROAD
In order to place the dental implant, the dentist must first remove the gum tissue. Sometimes an incision is made across the peak, and the gum is peeled back to reveal the bone. Some dentists prefer to cut out a small piece of gum tissue, the size of the implant.
The dentist will then use a series of drills to make and enlarge a hole in the jawbone. Once the hole is the right size, the implant is twisted tightly into position. Usually, at this stage, rather than attach a crown, the dentist will attach a temporary healing abutment. This is a cap placed on the dental implant which acts as a placeholder (preventing gum growing over the implant.) The gum is closed around the healing abutment and if needed, the gums will be stitched up.
Once this implant has fused to the bone, the final abutment and crown can be attached.
Materials
Usually the implants are made of titanium (a type of metal), however there are also tooth colored zirconia implants available at some clinics.
Anesthesia
Local anesthetic. General anesthetic may be available for an extra cost.
Procedure duration
A single dental implant surgery takes around 45 minutes, however the procedure can take longer if tooth extractions are performed at the same appointment, or if many implants are placed in one session.
HOW IT IS PERFORMED
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Post procedure care
After the surgery, it is recommended to avoid solid foods or smoking while the gums are healing.
Possible discomfort
Swelling, bruising, pain or light bleeding.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER DENTAL IMPLANT
IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT DENTAL IMPLANT
A dental implant replaces a natural tooth.
Part of the gum is removed to make space for the implant which is placed in the hole.
Success rates
The success of dental implants depends on many factors, such as the position in the jaw and thickness of the bone. Patients should ask their dentist about the likelihood of complications.
Not recommended for
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Pregnant patients
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Suppressed immune system
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Diabetes
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Heavy smokers
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Recent heart attack patients
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Bruxism (teeth grinding)
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Jaw bone loss
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Recent radiation therapy on the head or neck
Potential risks
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Surgical infection
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Failure to osseointegrate (fuse to the bone)
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Nerve damage
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Damage to any surrounding teeth
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Sinus damage
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Loss of jaw bone
Ready to take the next steps? Make an inquiry and our Care Team will get in touch to discuss your needs and help you find the right clinic and specialist.