FAQ’s on Dental Implant

What is dental implant?

Dental implant is screw-like device that is drilled into the jaw bones by the implantologist. It is used to replace the missing teeth.

What are the indications of dental implants?

Dental implants are used when there is a missing tooth or when the tooth is extremely decayed and cannot be saved with a root canal treatment, and the dentist needs to extract the tooth. During such situations, implant is one of the best options.

What are the advantages of dental implants? Are they as strong as natural teeth?

The advantage of dental implants is that they replicate the natural teeth. They are almost as strong as the natural teeth. They are cost effective. They are advised to patients looking for a long term and permanent solution to their missing teeth.

Implants vs dentures.

Dentures are removable prosthesis whereas Implants are permanently placed in the jaw. Dentures are comparatively less expensive than implants.

What are the Pros of dental implants?

Dental implants replicate the natural teeth. They are almost as strong as the natural teeth. Patients can chew on the and feel like it is like their natural teeth itself. As they are fixed to the bone there is no movement while chewing.

What are the Cons of dental implants?

Dental implants are comparatively expensive than dentures. Implants are not used when the patient is suffering from bone related problems like osteoporosis and osteopinea.

What are the pros of dentures?

They are affordable. They can be easily removed by the patient. It replaces the missing teeth of the entire arch.

What are the cons of dentures?

They are not permanently fixed in the mouth. They have a tendency to slip and fall while talking. They need to be taken out and washed well after every meal.

What are the different types of dental implants?

There are three types of dental implants.

• Sub-periosteal Implants: they are inserted just above the jaw bone and below the periosteum. Protruding from the metal framework of subperiosteal implants are small metal post. These metal post serve as anchors for the attachment of the prosthesis.
• Transosseous implants: as the name suggests they are placed through the bone. Typically, these implants consists of a plate and several bolts that transverse the entire jaw in the vertical dimension.
  Endosseous implants: they mimic the natural roots of the teeth. These implants are placed within the jaw bone.

Who performs dental implant treatments?

Dental implants are performed by Oral Surgeons and highly skilled dentists with a degree in implants aka implantologist.

How long does dental implant process take?

Single implants can be placed in a span of 5 to 10 minutes.
Full arch implants can be placed in a span of 45 minutes to 90 minutes

Can dental implants be placed on the same day of extraction?

Yes, implants can be placed on the same day of extraction. Immediate loading implants such as Basal Implants follow same day protocol wherein the practicing dentist extracts the tooth and places the implants on the same day.

What are the care guidelines which should be followed after an implant?

Guidelines that need to be followed by the patients are similar to that of extraction. One should not spit or rinse their mouth for 24 hours. Ice applications to avoid swelling. Avoid brushing in the areas where the implants are placed. They should avoid having hot and spicy food. Patients need to consume the medications (Antibiotics and painkillers) prescribe to them by their dentist on time.

What are the complications of dental implants?

Some of the complications are infection in and around the area where the implants are placed. It is called as periimplantitis. Sometimes the surrounding tissues and area can get damaged while placing the implants. Nerve damage is seen commonly in the lower jaw, when the implants are too close to the inferior alveolar nerve. Whereas in the upper jaw when the implants are too close to the sinus, there are chances of them slipping into the sinus if the dentist is not proficient and skilled.

How long do dental implants last?

Dental Implants provide life-long replacement if taken care of properly.
Most of them can last easily from 20-30 years

How much does an implant cost in India?

Dental implants ranges anywhere between Rs. 25,000/- to 85,000/- depending on the company and make.