Dental Implants
The Art of Permanent Perfection
What are DENTAL IMPLANTS?
Dental implants are a sophisticated, permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. They consist of biocompatible titanium posts that are surgically implanted into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. Once integrated with the bone, these implants provide a strong foundation for custom-made crowns, bridges, or dentures. Dental implants are designed to look, feel, and function like natural teeth, restoring both the aesthetics and functionality of your smile. At Estedica, dental implants are offered as a premium solution for clients seeking the ultimate in durability, comfort, and natural appearance.
Your Guide to The Journey Ahead
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Dental implants are suitable for individuals who:
Have Missing Teeth: Whether due to decay, injury, or other dental conditions, individuals with one or more missing teeth are ideal candidates for implants.
Have Sufficient Bone Density: Candidates should have adequate bone density in the jaw to support the implant. In cases where bone loss has occurred, bone grafting may be recommended to create a stable foundation.
Are in Good Overall Health: Good candidates are generally healthy, without conditions that could impair healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes or immune disorders.
Seek a Permanent Solution: Those looking for a long-term, durable solution that closely mimics the look and feel of natural teeth will benefit from implants.
Prefer a Non-removable Option: Unlike dentures, dental implants are a permanent fixture, offering stability and convenience without the need for daily removal and cleaning.
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Estedica offers a variety of dental implant options to suit different needs and preferences:
Endosteal Implants
These are the most common type of dental implants and are placed directly into the jawbone. They consist of small screws made of titanium that serve as the root of the replacement tooth. Endosteal implants are ideal for most patients who have sufficient bone density.
Subperiosteal Implants
Subperiosteal implants are placed under the gum but on or above the jawbone. This type of implant is typically used for patients who do not have enough healthy jawbone and cannot undergo a bone grafting procedure.
All-on-4 Implants
All-on-4 is a full arch replacement solution where a complete set of teeth is supported by just four implants. This method is ideal for individuals who have lost most or all of their teeth and are seeking a stable, permanent alternative to dentures.
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Dental implants offer numerous benefits, making them the preferred choice for tooth replacement:
Natural Appearance: Implants are designed to replicate the look and feel of natural teeth, ensuring a seamless blend with your existing teeth.
Long-lasting Durability: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, providing a lasting solution that outperforms other tooth replacement options.
Preserves Bone Health: Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss that typically occurs after tooth loss. This helps maintain the natural contours of your face and jawline.
Improved Functionality: Implants restore full chewing power, allowing you to eat your favourite foods without discomfort or limitations.
Enhanced Confidence: With their natural appearance and secure fit, implants help restore confidence by eliminating concerns about slipping or visible gaps.
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The dental implant procedure is typically completed in two stages, ensuring precision and lasting results. During the first stage, the implant—a small titanium post—is placed into the jawbone. This procedure generally takes about 1-2 hours per implant. After placement, a healing period of 3-6 months allows the implant to fuse naturally with the bone, creating a secure foundation for the new tooth.
In the second stage, the custom-made crown is attached to the implant. This final step usually takes about 1-2 hours.
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Recovering from dental implant surgery is a process that unfolds in stages, ensuring optimal healing and long-term success. Here's what you can expect:
Immediate Post-Surgery Recovery (1-2 Days):
Mild swelling, discomfort, and minor bleeding are normal after the procedure. Most patients can manage these symptoms with prescribed pain medication and ice packs. You’ll want to stick to soft foods and avoid strenuous activities during this time.Initial Healing Phase (1-2 Weeks):
Within the first week, the swelling and discomfort usually subside significantly. Stitches, if any, may dissolve or be removed during this phase. You’ll begin to feel more comfortable resuming daily activities, though care should still be taken with your diet and oral hygiene.Osseointegration Phase (3-6 Months):
This critical stage allows the implant to fully integrate with your jawbone, creating a stable foundation for your new tooth. While you’ll feel little to no discomfort during this period, regular check-ups with your dentist ensure everything is healing properly.Final Restoration (After 3-6 Months):
Once osseointegration is complete, your custom crown will be placed, and you’ll be ready to enjoy your beautiful, functional smile. -
The duration of a stay for a dental implant procedure depends on the client’s personalized treatment plan. Here’s a general outline:
Standard Stay: 7-10 Days
For most clients, a stay of 7-10 days is sufficient. This timeframe accommodates the initial implant procedure, follow-up appointments, and any necessary adjustments. Clients also have the opportunity to relax and recover in comfort.For More Complex Cases: Up to 2 Weeks
If additional treatments, such as bone grafting or sinus lifts, are required, a stay of up to 2 weeks may be recommended. This ensures proper monitoring and care, allowing the treatment to progress smoothly.Following this initial phase, clients return home for a healing period of 3-6 months. Once the implants have fully integrated, a second, shorter visit of 5-7 days is scheduled to complete the treatment with the final crown placement.
The Procedure
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The process begins with a thorough consultation where the dentist evaluates the patient’s oral health, bone density, and overall suitability for implants. Digital scans and X-rays must be submitted in order to create a detailed treatment plan.
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If necessary, procedures such as bone grafting or sinus lifts are performed to prepare the jawbone for the implant. A customized plan is developed, detailing the placement of each implant.
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Under local anesthesia or sedation, the dental implants are surgically placed into the jawbone. This involves creating a small incision in the gum to expose the bone, followed by the careful insertion of the titanium post.
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After placement, the implants undergo a healing period called osseointegration, where the titanium posts fuse with the jawbone. This process typically takes several months and is crucial for the stability and success of the implants. It is critical to plan for the procedure being a two-step process and to provision for a trip back once the titanium posts are fused with the jawbone.
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Once the implants are securely integrated with the bone, an abutment (a small connector) is attached to the top of the implant. The abutment serves as the base for the final restoration.
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The final step involves the placement of the custom-made crown, bridge, or denture onto the abutment. These restorations are designed to match the color, shape, and size of the surrounding teeth, ensuring a natural and harmonious appearance.
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After the procedure, follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and ensure the implants are functioning as intended. Patients are provided with detailed care instructions to maintain the longevity of their new implants.