What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is the gold standard treatment for replacing a tooth or series of teeth. Essentially, a dental implant is a bio-compatible titanium post that is placed in the jawbone to replace a missing tooth. It is designed to fuse with the jawbone and become a permanent fixture. A dental implant looks just like a small screw with a natural looking prosthetic crown attached to visible area of the implant.

MIS implants

At Somersmiles, we use world-leading MIS implant technology for all our dental implant procedures. MIS implants are made of biocompatible, medical-grade titanium alloy, offering extraordinary cleanliness and facilitating long lasting osseointegration (the process whereby the implant fuses with the jawbone).

Types of dental implants

Dental implants are an effective, long-term solution for the replacement of missing teeth. The implant consists of three components which are implemented across a series of procedures - the implant, which is placed into the jawbone, an abutment (a metal piece that is screwed into the implant), and then a crown. 

MIS implants can be used in a couple of different ways, depending on how many teeth require replacement:

Single tooth placement

A single tooth placement procedure is exactly as it sounds - a dental implant is used to replace a single missing tooth.

Implant bridge

An implant bridge is similar to a regular dental bridge, however it is supported by dental implants on either side, rather than by your natural teeth.

What is the dental implant treatment process?

Dental implants have an exceptionally high success rate, but it can be a slow process, with the procedure taking place in stages over the course of a few months. At Somersmiles, we’re committed to making the process as efficient and comfortable as possible.

01. Treatment consultation

First up, scans and x-rays are done to help your dentist asses the work that is required. This is followed by a consultation with your dentist and treatment coordinator to develop and schedule your treatment plan. During this consultation we’ll discuss the options for ensuring your comfort during the procedure including local anaesthetic, happy gas or sleep dentistry or even general anaesthetic where required. We encourage you to read more about Sleep dentistry here. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask any questions and sign a consent form before proceeding.

02. Treatment process

During your first procedure, the MIS dental implant is fitted into your jawbone in a minor operation. In most cases, you would be given an anaesthetic for this procedure.

Once the implant has been inserted, it will heal and fuse to the jawbone over a period of 3-6 months in a process known as osseointegration.

Once the implant site has completely healed and has fused effectively with the jawbone, a second procedure is required whereby an abutment is attached to the top of the implant, which will hold the crown securely in place.

Following this procedure, your dentist will take a mould of your mouth to make the artificial tooth or teeth, which will be screwed into the foundation in a final procedure.

03. Following your treatment

After each of your dental implant procedures, we will provide you with a post-procedure care and recovery information sheet as well as a take-home care pack.

In the days following your procedure you may experience some bruising, pain or swelling of the gums and face. You may also need to eat soft foods after each procedure to let the dental implant site heal.

While no special care is required for your dental implant, it is important to keep up good oral hygiene following your procedure.

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