Not so long ago, if you lost one of your front teeth, your dentist would grind down the two adjacent teeth to create a bridge. These days, there�s an alternative that does significantly less damage � a single tooth implant. According to a Dental Clinic in Singapore, over 5.5 million implants are done each year.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is similar to a crown in that it keeps tooth damage from getting worse. However, when there�s insufficient natural tooth to hold a crown, artificial roots can be used. The implant is a titanium piece inserted into the jaw � as the incision heals, bone grows over the post, holding it in place. Following the osseointegration process, the oral surgeon places an abutment on the implant, and a prosthodontist creates a crown that�s eventually affixed to the abutment.

Surgery Risks

Procedures have a 95% success rate, but as a surgery there�s always a risk of complications such as infection, damage to teeth and damage to nerves and blood vessels. Upper mouth implants can cause severe sinus problems in some patients, and bones sometimes don�t fuse completely to the implants.

Implant procedures done by a aspen dental take up to three times as long as bridges take, but in an ideal case the time spent is comparable for both procedures. If the original tooth is to be removed, healing will take up to two months, and if you need bone grafts, healing may take up to nine months.

Cost Comparison of Bridges and Implants

Time is a big factor in deciding whether to get bridges or implants, but cost can play a role as well. An implant, abutment and crown can cost up to $4000, and the cost isn�t likely to be covered by insurance. If you get a three tooth bridge to replace a missing tooth, it can cost up to $4500.

Who�s a Candidate for Implants?

Age isn�t a determining factor in dental implant procedures, but health is. For an implant to be successful, the incisions must heal completely�meaning that smokers, diabetics and those with compromised immune systems may not be able to get implants. However, if you have enough natural bone, if your immune system is strong, and you are capable of practicing good oral hygiene, titanium dental implants may be right for you. Ask your dentist in Singapore for more details.