What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium placed where the root of a missing tooth once was. They can support a crown, bridge, or denture. If you have one or more missing teeth, dental implants may be a good option for fixed teeth. Once in place, they help restore chewing function and maintain bone density. Adequate bone density and home care are essential for long-lasting implants.
Benefits of Replacing Teeth with Dental Implants
- Preserves bones and gums.
- Protects healthy teeth by distributing biting forces.
- Prevents teeth from shifting.
- Will not decay or need root canal treatment.
- Increases ability to chew and speak naturally.
- Eliminates the need for removable dentures.
- More reliable than any other restoration or tooth replacement.
- No need to grind other teeth for fixed replacement.
Process for Getting Dental Implants
- Step 1: Diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Step 2: Teeth extraction (if required) and implant placement.
- Step 3: Temporary teeth replacement.
- Step 4: Measurements, scanning, bite measurements, teeth trial, and final permanent teeth fixing.
Types of Dental Implant Treatments
- Single tooth replacement: One implant and crown.
- Multiple teeth replacements: Multiple implants and a bridge.
- Full arch replacement: One jaw with multiple implants and hybrid dentures.
- Full mouth replacement: Both jaws with multiple implants and hybrid dentures.
- Hybrid Denture/All on 4/All on 6: Fixed full jaw dentures anchored to implants.
Painless Dental Implants
Immediate implants can be placed the same day as tooth removal. Flapless (cut-free and stitch-free) procedures offer maximum comfort during and after the treatment.
Cost of Dental Implants
The average cost of a single dental implant starts at ₹30,000. Full jaw teeth replacement with implants starts at ₹1,70,000. The final cost depends on the brand of implants, teeth material, and any additional procedures like bone grafting.
Precautions with Dental Implants
Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care. Adjacent teeth health helps protect the implants from overloading. While crowns and bridges may need replacement over time, the implants themselves can last long with regular maintenance and good oral hygiene.
Dental Implant Risks
Dental implant placement is a minor surgical procedure with some risks. Conditions like diabetes or heart disease should be disclosed to the dentist. Risks include peri-implantitis and bone loss, which can lead to implant failure. Proper planning, care, and maintenance are crucial to prevent complications.