Dental Implants

Dental implants – a clinically planned solution for missing teeth

Replacing missing teeth involves more than restoring appearance. It requires careful evaluation of bone support, gum health, bite function and overall oral health. At Beyond Smiles, dental implant treatment begins with a comprehensive assessment and an individualised treatment plan.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a small post, usually made of titanium, that is placed in the jaw bone to act as a replacement for the root of a missing tooth. Once it has integrated with the bone, it can support a crown, a bridge or a denture.

Implants may be used to replace:

• a single missing tooth
• several missing teeth, with an implant-supported bridge
• all the teeth in a jaw, with implant-supported or implant-retained dentures

Who may be suitable?

Implants may be an option if you have one or more missing teeth and are in good general health. Suitability depends on several factors, including:

• the amount and quality of bone available
• gum health
• your bite and the condition of the remaining teeth
• your medical history and current medicines
• habits such as smoking or teeth grinding

Some medical conditions — for example diabetes, certain heart conditions or medicines that affect bone — do not automatically rule out implants, but they need to be well managed and discussed in detail, sometimes together with your physician. Smoking and poorly controlled diabetes can increase the risk of complications. The final decision is made only after a clinical assessment.

Assessment and planning

• A detailed discussion of your concerns, medical history and expectations
• Examination of the teeth, gums and bite
• X-rays and, where needed, 3D imaging (CBCT) to assess the bone
• Gum treatment, if needed, before implant placement
• A written plan explaining options, stages, costs and alternatives

The treatment process

Implant treatment usually takes place in stages:

• Placement – the implant is placed under local anaesthesia.
• Healing – the bone is allowed to integrate with the implant, usually over several weeks to a few months. A temporary tooth may be provided in some cases.
• Restoration – a crown, bridge or denture is made and fitted on the implant.

If there is not enough bone, bone grafting or other procedures may be recommended before or during placement. In selected cases, a tooth can be attached soon after placement; whether this is appropriate depends on your clinical situation.

Implants compared with other options

• Bridges – fixed and well established, but usually need the neighbouring teeth to be prepared.
• Dentures – removable, less invasive and lower in initial cost, but may move and need periodic adjustment or replacement.
• Implants – do not rely on neighbouring teeth and can help support the bone, but involve a surgical procedure, more time and a higher initial cost.

Leaving a gap is also an option; your dentist can explain how this may affect your bite and neighbouring teeth over time.

Risks and limitations

Like any surgical procedure, implant treatment carries risks. These can include swelling, discomfort, infection, bleeding and, rarely, nerve or sinus involvement. An implant may occasionally fail to integrate with the bone. Over time, inflammation around implants (peri-implantitis) can develop, particularly with poor oral hygiene or smoking. Restorations on implants may also need repair or replacement in future.

Aftercare and maintenance

• Brush twice daily and clean around the implant with interdental brushes or floss as shown
• Attend regular reviews and professional cleanings
• Avoid smoking, which affects healing and long-term health of the gums and bone
• Wear a night guard if you grind your teeth and one is recommended

With good care and regular reviews, many implants function well for many years — but no outcome can be guaranteed, and results vary from person to person.