Comfortable and Natural
Dental implants offer a more natural look as compared to dentures as they are inserted into the jaw.
Furthermore, implant-support dentures are often more comfortable than normal ones as they are less likely to shift.
Dental Implants
Written by Dr. Cheng Eng Wah
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are an effective solution for individuals who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, injuries or other reasons.
They are surgically inserted into the jawbone to support and secure a dental crown, dental bridge or denture firmly in place. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can opt for titanium or ceramic implants.
At i.Dental, we offer dental implants including single tooth implants, implant supported bridges, implant supported dentures and metal-free implants.
Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth or to preserve the integrity of other existing teeth.
In general, these are some situations in which a dental implant may be recommended:
- When chewing is difficult due to missing teeth
- When other teeth are weakened or loose due to missing teeth
- When your dentures or dental bridge is uncomfortable
- When you feel less confident about your smile due to missing teeth
Note: Before starting this procedure, it is essential to ensure that there is sufficient bone in your jaw to support the implants.
In Singapore, dental implants are often the preferred method for replacing missing or damaged teeth due to their wide range of benefits. Here are some of the main advantages of dental implants.
Enhances Ability to Chew
For normal dentures, your jawbone may shrink due to the absence of tooth roots. This can cause the dentures to shift while chewing.
Using a dental implant can help to prevent this and improve your chewing ability.
Enhances Speech
When you have missing teeth, pronouncing certain words and alphabets can be challenging.
Dental implants, which help to replace missing teeth, allow you to speak clearly and with more confidence.
Prevents Jawbone Loss
Missing teeth can lead to problems such as diastema, tooth decay and gum disease. It also causes bones in your jaw area to atrophy and resorb.
Dental implants can aid in bone retention and prevent the loss of natural tooth tissue. It can also reduce the chances of bone resorption and deterioration.
This subsequently helps to retain the structure of your jawbone and possibly improves your appearance.
Long-lasting Solution
Dental implants can last for a long time with proper care. As such, you are less likely to need to replace them over time.
To take proper care of your implants, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene and make regular visits to the dentist for a check-up.
Improves Confidence
As dentures supported by implants are fixed onto the jawbone, wearers no longer have to feel conscious about their dentures coming loose when they speak.
Dental implants can also make you feel more confident as they help to fill the gaps left by missing teeth.
Prosthesis (Crown)
The prosthesis is the uppermost section of the dental implant. It resembles your natural tooth’s crown and can come in the form of a
- crown (to replace 1 tooth),
- bridge (to replace up to 3 and more teeth) or
- denture (to replace multiple teeth).
Abutment (Connector)
The abutment is a tiny piece that is connected to the fixture. It serves as the support for the prosthesis.
Fixture (Implant)
The fixture is the section of the dental implant that is inserted into your jaw during surgery. It serves to replace the roots of your teeth and is typically made of ceramic or medical-grade titanium.
These are full, regular sized implants that have a diameter ranging from 2.9mm to 7mm.
They help to form a close
bond between the exterior surface of your implant and the surrounding jawbone.
The objective is to “fuse” them together (osseointegration) to create a good foundation for the new teeth.
Pros
- Better strength and stability
- Able to change the angle of the crown if necessary
Cons
- Complex surgery
- Longer healing time
- Higher cost
MDIs are a great alternative for patients who are uncomfortable with a full implant or are worried about the cost.
They are the most
- Patient-friendly
- Cost-effective and
- Proven dental implant system available today
The mini implant is about two times smaller than the normal sized implant. It is commonly used as a temporary measure, replacement for small teeth or incisors or a means of stabilising the lower denture, especially in older patients.
It comprises of a slim titanium rod that has a retaining fixture which can be incorporated into a denture.
Its head is shaped like a ball and the retaining attachment contains a rubber ‘O-ring’ that acts like a socket.
Pros
- No complex surgery required
- Shorter procedure and healing time
Cons
- Less strength and stability
- Less flexible in prosthesis design
These are full, regular sized implants that have a diameter ranging from 2.9mm to 7mm.
They help to form a close
bond between the exterior surface of your implant and the surrounding jawbone.
The objective is to “fuse” them together (osseointegration) to create a good foundation for the new teeth.
Pros
- Better strength and stability
- Able to change the angle of the crown if necessary
Cons
- Complex surgery
- Longer healing time
- Higher cost
MDIs are a great alternative for patients who are uncomfortable with a full implant or are worried about the cost.
They are the most
- Patient-friendly
- Cost-effective and
- Proven dental implant system available today
The mini implant is about two times smaller than the normal sized implant. It is commonly used as a temporary measure, replacement for small teeth or incisors or a means of stabilising the lower denture, especially in older patients.
It comprises of a slim titanium rod that has a retaining fixture which can be incorporated into a denture.
Its head is shaped like a ball and the retaining attachment contains a rubber ‘O-ring’ that acts like a socket.
Pros
- No complex surgery required
- Shorter procedure and healing time
Cons
- Less strength and stability
- Less flexible in prosthesis design
There are various types of dental implants and your dentist will make a recommendation based on your condition and needs. The time taken for the procedure may differ depending on the type of implant chosen.
Single Tooth Implant
Used when: Patient is only missing one or a few teeth
Single tooth implants replace the roots of a single tooth and do not affect surrounding teeth. This is the most common type of implant.
Implant Supported Bridge
Used when: Patient is missing several teeth (from 3 teeth and above)
An implant supported bridge may be recommended for patients who are missing several teeth. Up to 4 teeth in a row can be supported using 2 implants.
This is typically more affordable than single tooth implants and does not require support from neighbouring teeth, unlike that of regular dental bridges.
All-on-4 and all-on-6 dental implants are 2 types of implant techniques available in Singapore.
Implant Supported Denture
Used when: Patient is missing all of their teeth
Implant supported dentures may be offered to patients who are missing all of their teeth as an alternative to normal dentures. In this solution, a few implants are used to support the denture.
This is often more comfortable than regular dentures as it is less likely to shift while eating and chewing.
Metal-free Dental Implant
Used when: Patients have thin or receding gums and prefer a more aesthetic option to metal implants
Metal-free dental implants are made of ceramic and tend to be more aesthetically pleasing as they are tooth-coloured. As such, they may be the preferred choice among those with thin or receding gums as metal implants may be more noticeable.
Zygomatic Dental Implants
Used when: Patients have severe bone loss in the upper jaw
Zygomatic dental implants are anchored into the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) instead of the maxilla (upper jawbone). They provide an alternative solution for patients who are unsuitable for bone grafting or have severe bone loss in the upper jaw.
Tubero Pterygoid Dental Implants
Used when: Patients do not have enough bone mass in the upper jaw
Tubero pterygoid dental implants are placed around the region of your second molar in your upper jaw. With this technique, bone grafting and sinus lifting is not required, making it suitable for patients who cannot receive traditional dental implants.
Initial Consultation
The pre-procedure consultation would include a thorough assessment of your gum and jaw bone health. The dentist will also get to know your medical history and point out any potential challenges for the implant.
This is important as it indicates the success rate of the procedure.
Bone Grafting and Sinus Lifting (if needed)
If you have bone loss in your jaw, you may need to undergo sinus lifting or bone grafting before you can have dental implant surgery.
Both of these procedures require healing time of up to 6 months before the actual implant process can take place.
After your dentist has determined that these procedures are successful, they will begin the dental implant process.
Anaesthetic is Injected
Local anaesthesia is applied to numb the area where the implant will be placed. This is done to minimise pain and discomfort during the procedure but you may still experience a bit of vibration or pressure.
Depending on the complexity of your case, sedation or even general anaesthesia may be used in addition to local anaesthesia.
Implant is Inserted
Your dentist will make a small incision in the gum tissue where the implant will be placed.
A hole is then drilled in the jawbone for the implant. This is done very carefully to avoid damaging the bone and to ensure the hole is the right size for the implant.
The implant fixture will be screwed into the prepared hole. It acts as the root for the new artificial tooth and is designed to fuse with the bone.
Bone Tissue Grows
After the placement of the implant, the healing phase begins where new bone tissue will grow and integrate with the implant.
During this period, you may experience some pain, sensitivity or swelling. It is recommended to eat soft foods to avoid putting too much pressure on the implant site.
Healing Period: Bridges or Dentures
During this ‘healing’ period, patients will be given dental bridges (temporary teeth) or dentures to wear.
Post-Healing: Temporary Crown
After this period, the gum is lifted again and a post is attached to the implant with a temporary dental crown.
Final Permanent Prosthesis Placement
Once the surrounding tissue has matured, the final permanent restoration will be fitted to the implant.
You will have follow-up appointments to monitor the implant, teeth and gums to ensure that they are healthy.
Price:
$3,780 – $7,020 per tooth
(Inclusive of GST)
A dental implant can cost $3,780 – $7,020 per tooth (includes GST) and is inclusive of the prosthesis (crown). The final cost is dependent on several factors such as whether multiple implants are needed or if pre-implant procedures like bone grafting and sinus lifting are needed.
The initial consultation is chargeable from $21.60 to $54 (includes GST). If diagnostic records such as X-ray scans are required, they will be charged separately at $43.20 to $270 per X-ray. Kindly note that multiple X-rays may need to be taken during the consultation.
This procedure is claimable under MediSave for up to $1,250 per tooth. Consult with one of dentists to find out more about whether you are a suitable candidate for dental implants and the costs involved with this treatment.
Upgraded Technology
- Fotona LightWalker® Laser System: With LightWalker®, the opening of flap is more comfortable for you because pain and bleeding are minimal, if any.
- CAS-Kit: This can be used easily and safely for sinus lift procedures.
- THOR: A device with the thinnest blade for effective and precise ridge splitting for people with narrow ridges.
Professional Customer Service
At i.Dental, we understand that every patient has different dental needs. Therefore, we urge you to book an appointment with us to have a detailed analysis and tailored treatment.
FAQs
Anyone with missing teeth can get a dental implant. This applies to the elderly as well. However, individuals who are still in their growing years are typically not recommended to undergo this procedure.
Furthermore, individuals with connective tissue disorders or uncontrolled diabetes and those undergoing steroid therapy are to be evaluated for their suitability for dental implant surgery.
Yes, dental implant surgery is claimable under MediSave if you have sufficient funds. You can claim up to $1,250 per tooth, subject to approval by the CPF Board.
For example, if the cost of a dental implant is $3,750 per tooth (includes GST), the payable amount after MediSave will be $2,500 per tooth (includes GST). Thereafter, the amount will be split into 2 payments ($1,250 each), made payable upon the placement of the implant and the crown respectively.
One of the factors affecting the success of a dental implant is the ability of the implant to osseointegrate with the surrounding jawbone.
As such, bone grafts may be recommended for those with a weak or thin jawbone while sinus lifts may be required for those with insufficient bone mass in the upper jaw. These procedures allow the dental implants to be secured firmly to the jaw.
The procedure, if done professionally, is safe.
There are, however, several factors that may affect its success rate. The only way to find out is to go for a consultation for a detailed review.
Your dentist will apply local anaesthesia to numb the surgical area so you should not feel pain during the implant placement. But you may experience some vibrations or pressure as the implant process involves drilling.
After the procedure, as the anaesthesia wears off, you may experience some discomfort. However, these symptoms are typically temporary. Your dentist will provide detailed aftercare instructions to help manage any discomfort and promote healing.
Dental implants are designed to be a permanent solution for tooth loss. With proper care and maintenance, the implant itself can last a lifetime. However, the crown attached to it usually has a lifespan of about 10 to 15 years but can last longer with proper care and maintenance.
The duration of a dental implant procedure depends on your rate of recovery and condition.
On average, it will take 3 to 6 months to complete, taking into account the healing time after surgery. If a bone graft or sinus lift is required, the procedure can take up to a year. This is inclusive of the consultation, surgery and placement of the crown.
FAQs
Depending on the number of implants you receive and the complexity of your surgery, recovery time can range from 2 weeks to 6 months. Throughout the recovery process, you are typically able to go about your normal daily activities, although you may want to take a few days off work immediately after the implant surgery and follow dietary modifications as the surgical site heals.
- Infections
The possibility of getting infections during or post-surgery increases if you smoke or have bad oral hygiene.
- Slight movement of implant
This is a result of an unstable dental implant which usually happens after an immediate tooth replacement.
- Inadequate bone support
This is bound to happen if the surgeon carries out the procedure when bone support is inadequate. This means that the implant will not be able to fuse with the jaw.
- Allergic reaction
If you have a titanium allergy, please inform your surgeon so that a replacement material can be offered.
Typically, if you have an experienced dentist and follow through with healing instructions, the procedure will be fine.
For better results, avoid sticky and hard foods, and cleaning the area around the implants daily while you get adjusted.
Yes! Regular dental checkups are still required after the surgery to monitor your dental health and ensure that your implants are in good condition.
Proper care can help to extend the life of your dental implant. You are recommended to adopt a soft diet and avoid smoking throughout the duration of the procedure, from the insertion of the implant to the fitting of the crown.
Here are some additional tips on how to maintain your dental implant:
- Avoid exerting excessive force on the implant (excessive force may occur due to teeth grinding or a misaligned bite)
- Avoid smoking
- Practise good oral hygiene
- Attend dental check-ups regularly