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What Are Dental Implants?

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that replace missing teeth. They’re small titanium posts that are surgically placed into your jawbone.

These posts act as anchors for replacement teeth.

You may need dental implants if you’ve lost teeth due to injury, decay or gum disease.

They’re a popular choice for a single tooth replacement or to support bridges and dentures.

The success rate of dental implants can vary based on an individual’s overall health and lifestyle habits. However, for those in good health with consistent oral hygiene practices, dental implants have a success rate of 90% to 95%.

The dental implant has three main parts:

  1. Implant: The titanium screw that goes into your jawbone
  2. Abutment: A connector that attaches to the implant
  3. Crown: The visible part that looks like a natural tooth

In Malaysia, about 15% of adults have at least one dental implant. This number is growing as more people choose implants over dentures.

Implants are strong and can last a lifetime with proper care. They look and feel like your own teeth, so you can eat, speak and smile with confidence.

Fun fact: Cats have 30 teeth as adults, while humans have 32. Unlike humans, cats can’t get dental implants if they lose a tooth!

Dental Implants Benefits

  • Look and feel like natural teeth: You’ll have a strong, stable base for your new teeth. Dental implants are anchored into your jawbone so you can eat, speak and smile with confidence.
  • Long lasting and durable: With proper care, your implants can last a lifetime. They have a high success rate, often over 10 years. The titanium posts can even outlive the artificial crowns.
  • Support for the new teeth: They mimic the natural stability of real teeth, allowing for strong and secure function in chewing and speaking. This stability is achieved by the implant fusing with the jawbone, which creates a durable foundation that can last for decades with proper care.
  • Preserve surrounding teeth: Unlike bridges, implants don’t rely on adjacent teeth for support. This saves your healthy teeth from unnecessary stress and damage.
  • Maintain facial shape: Implants stimulate bone growth so you don’t lose jawbone that occurs with missing teeth. This preserves your facial features and prevents premature aging.
  • Speech and eating: You can speak clearly and enjoy your favourite foods without worrying about dentures slipping. Implants function like natural teeth, you can eat and talk normally.
  • Oral health: By filling the gaps in your smile, implants prevent teeth from shifting and becoming crooked. This makes it easier to clean your teeth and reduces the risk of decay and gum disease.
  • Self confidence: A full natural looking smile can boost your self esteem. You’ll feel more comfortable in social and professional situations.

Transform your smile today! With Nuffield Dental, you can experience the life-changing benefits of dental implants.

Schedule your consultation now to discover how dental implants can improve your quality of life, boost your self-esteem, and allow you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Don’t wait—take the first step towards your new smile today!

Symptoms That You Need Dental Implants

Periodontal Disease and Gum Tissue is one of the things they consider. Healthy gum tissue is essential for the success of dental implants. Periodontal disease, a bacterial infection of the gums, can compromise the foundation needed to support an implant. If left untreated, gum disease can cause inflammation, recession, and bone loss, making it challenging to secure the implant in place.

Before proceeding with implants, we thoroughly assess your gum health. In cases where periodontal disease is detected, we provide treatments such as scaling, root planing, or periodontal surgery to restore gum health. Addressing these issues beforehand ensures a better outcome for your dental implant procedure and promotes long-term success.

Other factors may affect your suitability:

  • Smoking
  • Uncontrolled diabetes
  • Certain immune disorders
  • Recent chemotherapy or radiation therapy

If you have these conditions for more than 3-6 months, it’s best to see a specialist.

During your consultation the dental team will:

  1. Examine your mouth
  2. Take x-rays or 3D scans
  3. Discuss your treatment options

The dental implant process involves:

  • An oral surgeon
  • A periodontist (gum specialist)
  • A prosthodontist (artificial tooth expert)

They will work together to create a treatment plan for you.

Remember, every case is different. Even if you have concerns, don’t rule yourself out. Book a consultation with our expert dental team to explore your options.

  • Chronic toothache:You have persistent pain or sensitivity especially when eating hot or cold food.
  • Damaged teeth:You have severely cracked, broken or decayed teeth that can’t be saved.
  • Difficulty eating:You avoid certain food or struggle to chew properly due to missing or damaged teeth.
  • Bite changes:Your remaining teeth have shifted and causes problems with your bite alignment.
  • Facial changes: You notice changes in your facial structure or premature aging due to tooth loss.
  • Speech: Teeth are essential for clear speech. Missing or misaligned teeth can lead to slurring, whistling, or speech impediments, making communication challenging.

Dental implants can fix these problems and restore your smile and quality of life.

They look and function like natural teeth so you can eat, speak and smile with confidence again.

Am I A Good Candidate For Dental Implants?

Many people can have dental implants. You might be a good candidate if you have:

  • Missing teeth
  • Good overall health
  • Healthy gums
  • Sufficient jawbone density
  • Enough bone to secure the implants or can have a bone graft
  • No health conditions that can affect bone healing
  • Unable to wear dentures because they cause discomfort, do not fit properly, or hinder your ability to eat or speak
  • Wants to improve your speech
  • Willing to commit several months to the process.
  • Don’t smoke tobacco

A consultation with a dental surgeon is necessary to determine if implants are for you.

They will assess your oral health and medical history.

Periodontal Disease and Gum Tissue is one of the things they consider. Healthy gum tissue is essential for the success of dental implants. Periodontal disease, a bacterial infection of the gums, can compromise the foundation needed to support an implant. If left untreated, gum disease can cause inflammation, recession, and bone loss, making it challenging to secure the implant in place.

Before proceeding with implants, we thoroughly assess your gum health. In cases where periodontal disease is detected, we provide treatments such as scaling, root planing, or periodontal surgery to restore gum health. Addressing these issues beforehand ensures a better outcome for your dental implant procedure and promotes long-term success.

Other factors may affect your suitability:

  • Smoking
  • Uncontrolled diabetes
  • Certain immune disorders
  • Recent chemotherapy or radiation therapy

If you have these conditions for more than 3-6 months, it’s best to see a specialist.

During your consultation the dental team will:

  1. Examine your mouth
  2. Take x-rays or 3D scans
  3. Discuss your treatment options

The dental implant process involves:

  • An oral surgeon
  • A periodontist (gum specialist)
  • A prosthodontist (artificial tooth expert)

They will work together to create a treatment plan for you.

Remember, every case is different. Even if you have concerns, don’t rule yourself out. Book a consultation with our expert dental team to explore your options.

Dental Implants Procedure

Dental Implants Procedure

Dental implant surgery is a multi-step process that replaces missing teeth with artificial ones. The procedure involves placing metal posts in your jawbone to act as tooth roots.

At Nuffield Dental, we observe a guided implant surgery which employs advanced digital tools, like cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans and specialised software, to meticulously plan dental implant placement.

This technology helps achieve precise positioning of implants relative to surrounding bone, nerves, and other anatomical structures.

Let’s explore each stage of the treatment.

For those with severely damaged teeth that can’t be saved, implants are a new beginning.

They look and function like natural teeth and restore your smile and bite.

If you have gaps in your teeth that affect your speech or chewing ability, implants can fill those spaces.

This will improve your oral function and overall quality of life.

Before you get implants, your dentist will assess your oral health and bone volume.

In some cases you may need a bone graft or sinus lift to make sure there’s enough bone to support the implant.

These procedures will create a solid base for your new teeth.

Conditions Dental Implants Can Treat

  • Tooth loss. If you lost one or more teeth due to injury, decay or gum disease, implants are a long term solution. They can replace one missing tooth or multiple teeth or even total tooth loss.
  • Loose Dentures. Do you have ill fitting dentures? Implants can provide a stable base for dentures and give you more comfort and confidence.
  • Bridges. They can also support bridges so you don’t have to alter healthy adjacent teeth.
  • Bone loss in jaw. Implants can help if you have bone loss in your jaw due to tooth loss. The titanium posts act like natural tooth roots and stimulates bone growth and preserves your facial structure.
  • Cavities: Dental implants can replace teeth too damaged by cavities to be restored, providing a long-term solution with a cavity-resistant replacement.
  • Cracked teeth: When a tooth is cracked beyond repair, a dental implant can replace it, restoring strength and appearance.
  • Teeth that never develop (anodontia): Dental implants serve as artificial roots for prosthetic teeth, offering a permanent replacement for congenitally missing teeth.
  • Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism): Although dental implants do not treat bruxism, they can replace teeth that are severely damaged from grinding, and additional protective measures can be taken to preserve them.

For those with severely damaged teeth that can’t be saved, implants are a new beginning.

They look and function like natural teeth and restore your smile and bite.

If you have gaps in your teeth that affect your speech or chewing ability, implants can fill those spaces.

This will improve your oral function and overall quality of life.

Before you get implants, your dentist will assess your oral health and bone volume.

In some cases you may need a bone graft or sinus lift to make sure there’s enough bone to support the implant.

These procedures will create a solid base for your new teeth.

Types of Dental Implants

All-on-4 Dental Implants

This uses 4 implants to hold an entire arch of teeth, great for people who have lost most or all of their teeth in one jaw. This method makes the most of the bone you have and avoids bone grafts, making the process quicker.

Zygomatic Dental Implants

These longer implants are anchored in the cheekbone rather than the jawbone. Perfect for patients who have insufficient bone mass in the upper jaw and want a secure alternative to conventional implants.

Pterygoid Dental Implants

Similar to zygomatic implants, pterygoid implants are placed in the pterygoid plate of the skull. Perfect for those with significant upper jaw bone loss, to have solid and durable dental prosthetics installed.

Single Tooth Dental Implants

This is to replace one tooth, involves inserting a titanium post into the jawbone, then an abutment and a crown that looks like a natural tooth. Perfect for functionality and aesthetics without affecting the adjacent teeth.

Multi-Teeth Dental Implants

When multiple teeth are missing next to each other, multi-teeth implants are the solution. Fewer implants are required than for single tooth replacements as they can support a bridge or a partial denture, fill the gap and restore function.

Metal-Free Dental Implants

Made of ceramic materials, these implants are perfect for people with metal allergies or those who want a more natural look. Strong and biocompatible alternative to traditional titanium implants.

Endosteal Dental Implants

The most common type, endosteal implants are placed into the jawbone and suitable for most patients with healthy jawbone. They are the foundation for replacing one or more missing teeth.

Subperiosteal Dental Implants

For patients who have no healthy jawbone and can’t have a bone graft. Placed on top of the jawbone but under the gums, subperiosteal implants provide a solution by resting on the bone itself, supporting the dental prostheses.

Transosteal implants

Transosteal implants are placed through the mandibular bone, making their installation process highly complex. They are also the least commonly used type of implant.

Dental Implants Procedure

Dental Implants Procedure

Dental implant surgery is a multi-step process that replaces missing teeth with artificial ones. The procedure involves placing metal posts in your jawbone to act as tooth roots.

At Nuffield Dental, we observe a guided implant surgery which employs advanced digital tools, like cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans and specialised software, to meticulously plan dental implant placement.

This technology helps achieve precise positioning of implants relative to surrounding bone, nerves, and other anatomical structures.

Let’s explore each stage of the treatment.

Before The Procedure

Your dentist will first assess your oral health and jawbone density.

They’ll take X-rays and 3D scans of your mouth to plan the implant placement.

If your jawbone is too thin or soft, you might need a bone graft before the main surgery.

You’ll discuss the types of implants and anaesthesia options with your dentist.

They’ll explain the risks and benefits of the procedure.

It’s crucial to share your medical history and any medications you’re taking.

Your dentist will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

This plan outlines the number of implants needed and the expected timeline for the whole process.

During the Procedure

Step 1: Placing the Dental Implant

On the day of surgery, your comfort is our priority. Here’s what to expect:

  • Anesthesia Options: You’ll receive local anesthesia to numb the area, ensuring the procedure is painless. For more complex cases or if you’re anxious, we offer IV sedation for a deeply relaxed, stress-free experience.
  • Surgical Process:
    • Your dentist will make a small incision in the gum to expose the bone.
    • They will drill precise holes into the bone and insert the metal implant posts, which act as the roots for your new teeth.
    • After placing the implants, a temporary denture may be provided to maintain your appearance during healing.
  • Duration: The surgery typically takes 1-2 hours for a single implant, and you’ll be able to return home the same day.

Step 2: Waiting for Bone Growth

The next phase is osseointegration, where the implant bonds with your jawbone. This process is crucial for stability and long-term success:

  • Healing Time: Osseointegration can take 3-6 months. During this period:
    • Eat soft foods to avoid stressing the implant site.
    • Clean around the area gently to maintain oral hygiene and prevent infection.
  • Comfort Management: Discomfort such as swelling, bruising, or minor bleeding may occur. We provide pain medications and anti-inflammatory drugs to ease this. Follow-up visits ensure your progress is on track and that no complications arise.

Step 3: Placing the Abutment

Once healing is complete, a minor surgery is performed to attach the abutment, the piece connecting the implant to your crown:

  • Your surgeon will reopen the gum, attach the abutment to the implant, and close the gum tissue around (but not over) the abutment.
  • Healing Time: Your gums will need two weeks to heal before the final crown is placed.

Step 4: Choosing and Fitting Your New Artificial Teeth

After your gums have healed, your dentist will take impressions of your mouth to craft the final crown.

  • Types of Artificial Teeth:
    • Removable: Similar to traditional dentures, these can be taken out for cleaning or repairs.
    • Fixed: Permanently attached to the implant, offering a natural look and feel.

The final step is fitting the crown. Your dentist will ensure the color, shape, and fit blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. If your implant feels loose or painful, contact your dentist immediately for an adjustment.

After the Procedure

Regardless of whether your surgery is completed in one or multiple stages, you may experience:

  • Swelling in the gums and face
  • Bruising on the skin and gums
  • Pain at the implant site
  • Minor bleeding

To help you manage post-operative discomfort and ensure a smooth recovery:

  • Pain Management: Your dentist will prescribe painkillers and antibiotics. For added comfort, we provide detailed instructions on managing swelling and soreness at home.
  • Transportation: If you’ve undergone IV sedation, arrange for a trusted friend or family member to drive you home after surgery.

Post-Operative Care and Six Months of Healing

  • Pain Relief: Tooth pain may limit your activities due to the discomfort it causes, with tooth extraction, immediate pain relief is given by extracting a broken or infected tooth, which allows proper healing of the affected area.
  • Gum Health: Poor gum health may cause foul mouth odour and infections, which may trigger more serious conditions. By removing the source of bacteria, the procedure protects the gums from further damage and improves gum health in general.
  • Decay Prevention: Tooth decay can be exhausting to deal with due to the pain and discomfort it gives, tooth extraction can protect your dental health by preventing cavities from spreading to nearby teeth, making sure your teeth remain healthy and free from damage.
  • Infection Control: Tooth infections can weaken your oral structure and affect your overall health. Removing an infected tooth prevents the infection from spreading to the surrounding bone and tissue, which is important for the integrity of the oral structure.
  • Orthodontic Preparation: During orthodontic treatments like braces, extractions can help improve the alignment of the teeth by creating enough space for the teeth to straighten and it also improves the overall outcome of these procedures.
  • Aesthetic Improvements: Unhealthy gums and teeth may affect your confidence. There’s a lot that tooth extraction can do, such as stop a series of dental problems, maintain or improve your smile, and make it easier for future dental treatments like implants. What’s more is it can help boost your confidence during social events.
Procedures that Complement Dental Implants

When Sinus Augmentation is required

When Sinus Augmentation is required

Sinus augmentation, also known as sinus lift, is done to add bone to the upper jaw. This involves lifting the sinus membrane and filling the space with bone graft material. It’s often needed when the sinus floor is too close to where the dental implants will be placed and that can happen when you’ve lost bone from missing teeth or periodontal disease. By lifting the sinus floor, new bone can form and provide enough bone height for the implant to be placed so the implant is more stable and long lasting.

When Ridge Modification is required

When Ridge Modification is required

Ridge modification is done to correct deformities in the jawbone. This surgical procedure involves lifting the gum away to expose the defect in the bone. It’s often needed when the jaw isn’t wide enough to support dental implants. Bone graft material can be added to build up the ridge. Ridge modification makes the gum line look better and increases the success rate of implant placement by giving the implant a stronger foundation.

When Bone Grafting is required

When Bone Grafting is required

Bone grafting is a surgical procedure that replaces missing or damaged jawbone with material from another body area or synthetic sources to support dental implants and encourage bone growth. When teeth are lost, the surrounding bone can deteriorate, making implants challenging without a solid foundation. Bone grafts, categorised as autografts (using the patient’s bone), allografts (from human donors), or xenografts (from animal sources), restore jawbone density and improve the chances of successful implant placement, offering a robust solution for those aiming to restore or maintain oral health after tooth loss.

Dental Implants Risks

  • Infection: Your implant site might get infected, causing pain and swelling.
  • Bleeding: You may experience more bleeding than expected after the surgery.
  • Nerve damage: In rare cases, nearby nerves might be injured during the procedure.
  • Sinus problems: Upper jaw implants can potentially affect your sinus cavity.
  • Implant rejection: Your body might not accept the implant, causing it to fail.
  • Allergic reaction: Some people may be sensitive to the implant materials. You can opt for zirconia instead.
  • Damage: Injury to surrounding structures, like nearby teeth or blood vessels, can lead to complications or the need for further corrective treatment.
  • Misalignment: If the implant does not align with natural bite patterns, it can create discomfort or interfere with normal chewing function.
  • Loosening: Failure of the implant to remain securely anchored can indicate issues with integration or stability, risking long-term failure.
  • Numbness: Nerve damage during placement can lead to temporary or permanent numbness, impacting sensation in nearby areas.
  • Mobility: Excessive movement of the implant body can compromise its integration with the jawbone, threatening implant longevity.
  • Discharge: Discharge like pus around the implant site suggests infection, which can jeopardise healing and implant success.
  • Bone Loss: Rapid loss of bone around the implant site can weaken support and lead to implant instability or failure.

It’s crucial to follow your dentist’s aftercare instructions to lower these risks.

Keep the area clean, take any prescribed medicines, avoid smoking and generally damaging habits.

If you notice any unusual symptoms, contact your dentist straight away.

Dental Implants Complications

  • Implant failure: Sometimes, the bone doesn’t grow around the implant properly. This can lead to a loose or fallen-out implant.
  • Nerve damage: You might feel numbness or tingling in your tongue, lips, or chin if the implant affects nearby nerves.
  • Sinus problems: Upper jaw implants can poke into your sinus cavities. This can cause pain and potential sinus infections.
  • Gum recession: The gum around your implant may shrink over time, exposing the metal post.
  • Peri-implantitis: This is a type of gum disease that can damage the bone supporting your implant.
  • Implant fracture: The implant or attached crown may crack or break, especially if you grind your teeth.
  • Incision opening: If the surgical incision reopens after surgery, it can expose the implant site to bacteria, increasing the risk of infection and delaying healing.
  • Implant movement: Movement of the implant shortly after placement can disrupt its integration with the bone, potentially leading to loosening or failure.
  • Implant exposure: Exposure of the implant above the gumline can make it more susceptible to infection and prevent proper gum healing, which may lead to implant instability or loss.

Regular check-ups with your dentist can help spot these issues early.

Good oral hygiene is key to preventing many complications.

If you notice any unusual symptoms, don’t wait to seek help.

Implant Failure and Infected Dental Implants

Dental implants boast a high success rate—around 95%—but failures can occur. Implant failure often results from insufficient bone integration, poor oral hygiene, or excessive pressure on the implant. Another possible complication is an infection, known as peri-implantitis, which can cause swelling, bleeding, and implant instability.

To minimize risks, we employ advanced diagnostic tools, such as 3D imaging, to ensure proper implant placement. Additionally, we educate our patients on maintaining good oral hygiene and provide routine follow-ups to detect and address any early signs of complications. If implant failure or infection occurs, we offer prompt intervention, including replacement procedures or infection management, to restore your oral health.

Cost Of Dental Implants In Malaysia

Getting dental implants in Malaysia can be a cost-effective option. The price varies based on factors like the type of implant and the clinic you choose.

Here’s a breakdown of typical costs for different implant types:

  • Single tooth implant: RM 6,000 – RM 10,000
  • Multiple tooth implants: RM 8,000 – RM 15,000
  • Full arch implants: RM 20,000 – RM 40,000

These prices usually cover the implant, abutment, and crown.

Extra costs may apply for consultations, X-rays, or pre-surgery treatments.

Why choose Malaysia for dental implants? The country offers:

  • Lower prices compared to many Western countries
  • High-quality care from skilled dentists
  • Modern clinics with advanced technology

You can save money without compromising on quality.

To get the best value:

  1. Research different clinics
  2. Read patient reviews
  3. Ask for detailed quotes
  4. Consider package deals for multiple implants

Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best.

Looking for affordable, high-quality dental implants? Nuffield Dental offers world-class dental implants at competitive rates. Whether you need a single implant or a full arch, our experienced dentists use advanced technology to deliver safe, lasting results.

With international training and a patient-focused approach, our team provides transparent pricing and high-quality care. Explore our implant options and discover why patients trust Nuffield Dental Malaysia for their smiles.

Book your consultation today to start your journey toward a confident, healthy smile!

Are There Subsidies For Dental Implants In Malaysia?

Good news! Malaysia offers some subsidies for dental implants, especially for lower-income groups.

The Ministry of Health recently signed an agreement to provide dental implant treatment for B40 Malaysians (those in the bottom 40% income bracket).

This initiative will give 3,000 complete dental implant packages worth over RM10 million to those in need.

It’s a big help for people who couldn’t afford implants before.

If you don’t qualify, don’t worry. Many dental clinics offer payment plans to make implants more affordable.

You can ask about:

  • Instalment options
  • Flexible payment schemes
  • Dental insurance coverage

Some private insurance plans might cover part of the cost of dental implants.

It’s worth checking your policy or asking your insurer about coverage.

Remember, even if you can’t get a subsidy, implants are often worth the investment.

They can improve your ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence.

Talk to your dentist about your options and what might work best for your budget and needs.

Why Choose Nuffield Dental For Dental Implants?

Nuffield Dental is a leading choice for dental implants, offering advanced, patient-centred care every step of the way. Here’s why patients trust Nuffield Dental for quality implant solutions:

Experienced team

Our expert implant dentists are skilled in both conventional and immediate implant procedures. You’ll receive care from professionals dedicated to achieving the best results for your smile.

Customized implant options

We offer a variety of implant solutions tailored to fit your needs:

  • Single tooth implants
  • Full arch teeth implants
  • All-on-4 treatment
  • Same-day teeth
  • Mini dental implants

Proven Patient Satisfaction

With a Google rating averaging 4.8 across 11 clinics in Singapore, Nuffield Dental has earned high praise for exceptional service and patient outcomes. If you’re not completely satisfied with your implants, we’ll redo the procedure to ensure you leave with the smile you desire.

Patient comfort comes first

Your satisfaction is our priority. If you’re not completely happy with your implants, we’ll redo the procedure to ensure you get the smile you desire.

Safety-first approach

At Nuffield Dental, we follow strict safety protocols to protect you throughout the implant process. Our team undergoes regular training to stay current with the latest dental techniques, giving you cutting-edge care backed by up-to-date science.

Streamlined full-jaw replacements

Complex procedures are simplified at Nuffield Dental. Our All-on-4 treatment, for instance, uses only 4-6 implants to support a full set of teeth, making the process faster and more comfortable for you.

Convenient locations

With multiple clinics across Singapore, finding a Nuffield Dental location near you for implant services is easy and convenient.

Natural-looking and lasting results

Choose Nuffield Dental for implants that are secure, comfortable, and natural-looking. Implants provide a permanent solution, better than dentures or bridges, and even strengthen your jawbone.

With over 10 years of experience and a consistent 4.8-star rating, Nuffield Dental is the trusted name for high-quality, natural-looking implants. From single implants to full-arch replacements, we’re here to make your journey seamless, comfortable, and supported by the latest dental technology.

Book your consultation today and discover why so many patients trust us for their dental implant needs!

Dental Implants Vs Dentures

Dental Implants Vs Dentures

Deciding between dental implants and dentures is a big decision for your oral health. Both have pros and cons so it’s important to know the differences.

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically placed in your jawbone.

They provide a stable base for replacement teeth that look and feel natural. Implants can last a lifetime if maintained properly.

Dentures are removable false teeth.

They sit on top of your gums and can be taken out for cleaning. Dentures are cheaper upfront but may need to be replaced every 5-10 years.

Here are the key differences:

  • Stability: Implants won’t slip or move, dentures will shift when eating or speaking.
  • Comfort: Implants feel like natural teeth. Dentures may cause sore spots on gums.
  • Bone health: Implants stimulate jawbone growth. Dentures can cause bone loss over time.
  • Cost: Dentures are cheaper upfront, but implants may be more cost effective in the long run.
  • Maintenance: Implants require normal brushing and flossing. Dentures need to be taken out daily and cleaned.

Your dentist will help you decide which is best for you and your budget.

They will consider your oral health, bone density and lifestyle.

Dental Implants Vs Bridges

Dental Implants Vs Bridges

Dental implants and bridges are two options to consider when replacing missing teeth. Both can restore your smile but work differently.

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically placed in your jawbone.

They’re usually made of titanium and fuse with your bone over time. A crown is then attached to the implant, to create a natural looking replacement tooth.

Bridges don’t replace the root.

They’re false teeth held in place by the teeth on either side of the gap. These supporting teeth are often filed down to fit crowns, which are then attached to the false tooth.

Key differences:

  • Permanence: Implants are permanent, bridges last 5-15 years.
  • Bone health: Implants stimulate bone growth, keep your jaw structure intact. Bridges don’t offer this benefit.
  • Adjacent teeth: Implants don’t affect nearby teeth. Bridges alter the supporting teeth.

Cost and time:

Implants are more expensive upfront but can be more cost effective in the long run. They also require more time, including healing time after surgery.

Bridges are cheaper upfront and can be done in a few weeks.

Your dentist will help you decide which is best for you based on your oral health, budget and lifestyle.

Dental Implants Vs Crowns

Dental Implants Vs Crowns

When you have tooth problems you might wonder about dental implants vs crowns. Both can fix your smile but work differently.

Dental implants replace missing teeth.

A metal post is placed in your jawbone and a new artificial tooth is attached to it. This gives you a brand new tooth that looks and feels like a natural one.

Crowns on the other hand cover damaged teeth.

They’re like caps that go over your existing tooth to protect it and make it look better. Crowns can fix broken or decayed teeth without removing them.

Here are the differences:

  • Procedure: Implants require surgery, crowns don’t.
  • Time: Implants take months to heal, crowns are quicker.
  • Cost: Implants are more expensive than crowns.
  • Durability: Implants last a lifetime, crowns may need to be replaced.

Your choice depends on your situation.

If you have a missing tooth, an implant might be for you. If you have a damaged tooth that’s still there, a crown could be the way to go.

Talk to your dentist about what’s best for you.

They’ll take a look at your teeth and help you decide which will give you the smile you want.

Preventing The Need For Dental Implants

  1. Brush twice daily: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. Clean all surfaces of your teeth for at least two minutes.
  2. Floss every day: Remove plaque and food particles between teeth where your brush can’t reach.
  3. Rinse with mouthwash: Use an antibacterial mouthwash to kill germs and freshen breath.
  4. Eat a tooth-friendly diet: Limit sugary and acidic foods. Choose calcium-rich options like dairy products to strengthen teeth.
  1. Avoid tobacco: Smoking and chewing tobacco can lead to gum disease and tooth loss.
  2. Wear a mouthguard: Protect your teeth during sports or if you grind your teeth at night.
  3. Schedule regular dental check-ups: Visit your dentist every 6 months for cleanings and exams
  4. Consider orthodontic treatment: If you have crooked or misaligned teeth, consider orthodontic treatment to enhance dental health and lower the chances of needing implants later on.

During dental exams, your dentist checks for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues, catching problems early before they become serious. Practising good oral hygiene is essential to prevent tooth loss — daily brushing and flossing remove plaque that can cause cavities and gum disease, which, if left untreated, may lead to tooth loss.

Regular dental visits allow your dentist to catch issues early. They can provide treatments to save teeth before extraction becomes necessary.

Don’t skip these important appointments!

Maintaining Teeth After Dental Implants

After getting dental implants, it’s crucial to care for them properly. Here are 7 detailed tips to help you maintain your new teeth:

  • Brush twice daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions. Pay extra attention to the area around your implants.
  • Brush twice daily: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle, circular motions. Pay extra attention to the area around your implants.
  • Rinse with saltwater: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Rinse gently for 30 seconds, 2-3 times a day for the first week.
  • Avoid hard foods: For the first few weeks, stick to soft foods like soups, smoothies, and mashed potatoes. Gradually reintroduce harder foods.
  • Don’t smoke: Smoking can slow healing and increase the risk of implant failure. Try to quit or at least cut back significantly.
  • Use an antiseptic mouthwash: Choose an alcohol-free rinse to reduce bacteria and promote healing. Use as directed by your dentist.
  • Schedule regular check-ups: Visit your dentist every 6 months for professional cleaning and to ensure your implants are in good condition.

Remember, proper care helps your implants last longer.

If you notice any pain, swelling, or looseness, contact your dentist right away.

Book an Appointment

Fill out the form for any request or questions you have and we will contact you within one working day.

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FAQs

Which type of tooth implant is best?

Are Dental Implants Painful?

Do Dental Implants Feel Natural?

Do Dental Implants require special care and maintenance?

How many teeth do you need for implants?

How are dental implants placed in the mouth?

How long do dental implants last?

How long can you go without teeth when getting implants?

At what age should you not consider dental implants?

Can you replace all teeth with implants?

Medical References

Guillaume, B. “Dental Implants: A Review.” Morphologie, vol. 100, no. 331, Mar. 2016, pp. 189–98. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.morpho.2016.02.002.

https://dentistry.uic.edu/patients/dental-services/general-family-dentistry/guide-to-dental-implants-a-popular-option-for-tooth-replacement/

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Why Choose Nuffield Dental?

Nuffield Dental is a one-stop, multi-disciplinary dental care centre in Malaysia. At Nuffield, we put you first. We believe in providing personalised service for each patient.

Nuffield Dental is a one-stop, multi-disciplinary dental care centre. Here at Nuffield Dental, we pride ourselves of our personalised oral care for each and every one of our patients. We need to make sure you get all the help you need to make your dental procedures comfortable, accessible and seamless.

Our dentists have been accredited in root canal and oral surgery for 20+ years. We have accredited dental providers who are skilled in the area of dental implant surgery.

Please call one of our Nuffield Dental clinics in Malaysia for pricing details.

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