Dental Implant
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is an option to replace missing teeth. There is a bottom part made of metal that is placed in bone, and a top part in the mouth which looks like a tooth. With implants, patients can eat well and smile with confidence!
When to get Dental Implants?
Dental implant is a recommended tooth replacement option by dentists. Especially for those who dislike using dentures or don’t want bridges, implants are a good option to consider for a more natural feeling when it comes to eating or speaking. When eating or speaking becomes unbearable without the missing teeth then it is time to get dental implants.
Procedure
Firstly, a CT scan (3-dimensional x-ray) will be taken to assess the bone at the area where the implant is planned. In some cases, bone grafting (addition of bone) may be required before the implant procedure takes place to provide adequate support for the titanium implant. Next, the implant is placed into the jawbone, and then left to heal for two to three months. Finally, the crown is placed on top of the implant.
Benefits of Dental Implants
- Forget about unsightly partial denture clasps or hooks that contribute to bad breath and place damaging pressure on remaining natural teeth.
- Eliminate irritation and inflammation to the gums, unlike dentures.
- Improve your speech by removing or reducing the fullness of full or partial dentures.
- Replace missing teeth with the look and feel of natural teeth without having to trim adjacent healthy teeth.
- Tooth implants help stop progressive bone loss and shrinkage of the jaw bone by creating a surface for the bone to be attached to.
- Dental implants are clinically proven with success rates of 90 %.
Prices
Prices starting from $3500 (Medisave Claimable up to $1250)
FAQs
Q- How do I care for my Dental Implants?
- Having good oral hygiene is essential towards caring for your dental implants. Just like how natural teeth can have gum/bone disease, bacterial collection and gum/bone disease can also develop around implants which may eventually result in you losing the implants. A good oral hygiene regime will involve brushing twice daily, flossing daily, and regular dental check-ups. Also, following the dentist’s advice to avoid certain habits eg chewing hard foods.
Q- What are the risks associated with Dental Implant Surgery?
- Dental implant surgery does have some risks just like any other surgery. The risks include:
- Infection at the implant site
- Injury to the surrounding structures eg teeth, nerve, sinus.
- Insufficient initial implant stability to allow for proper bone healing around implant which can lead to failure.
Q- Are Dental Implants superior to Dentures?
- Dental implants are more comfortable to dentures as implants are anchored to the bone and are not removable. Also, the size and shape of the implant crown is like a natural tooth.
Q- What to expect after getting Dental Implants?
- After the surgery, discomfort is natural and normal for a few days. For most patients, painkillers are enough to alleviate the discomfort. Other side effects to expect are swelling of the face and gums, minor bleeding from the implant site, and bruising at the skin or gums. There will also be instructions given on what to follow after surgery. Some instructions include soft diet, avoiding smoking and having good oral hygiene at the implant area.
Medisave Claims Eligibility for Dental Implants
Take note that dental treatments are generally not claimable under the MediSave scheme unless the treatment involves surgery and is performed due to medical reasons. Non-surgical dental treatments such as extractions, crowning, dentures or braces are not MediSave-claimable. Contact us to find out if your treatment is claimable.