A dental implant is a small titanium post placed in the jawbone where a tooth is missing. Once it bonds with the bone, it holds a crown that looks, feels and works like a natural tooth. Implants can also support a bridge or hold a denture firmly in place.
Unlike a bridge, an implant does not need the neighbouring teeth to be cut down, and it helps preserve the jawbone. At Orchid Dental Wellness, Dr. Swapnil Sodhiya, certified in Oral Surgery, checks your bone and gum health first and explains whether an implant is right for you, along with the timeline and cost.
An implant may be right for you if
- You have one or more missing teeth
- A tooth is badly broken and cannot be saved
- You do not want neighbouring healthy teeth cut for a bridge
- Your denture is loose and you want it to stay firmly in place
- Your general health and gums are in good condition
How dental implant treatment works
- Consultation, examination and X-rays to check the bone and plan the implant position.
- The implant post is placed in the jawbone under local anaesthesia.
- A healing period, usually a few months, while the implant bonds with the bone.
- An abutment and a custom crown, bridge or denture are fitted on the implant.
- Follow-up visits to check the implant, gums and bite.
Aftercare
Brush and clean around the implant as carefully as natural teeth, and keep regular check-ups. Smoking and uncontrolled diabetes increase the risk of implant problems, so we will advise you on these before treatment.
Dental Implants: frequently asked questions
Is getting a dental implant painful?
The procedure is done under local anaesthesia, so you should not feel pain while it is placed. Mild soreness and swelling for a few days afterwards is common and is managed with medicines.
How long does implant treatment take?
Usually a few months from placing the implant to fitting the final crown, because the bone needs time to heal around the implant. Dr. Swapnil Sodhiya will give you a timeline after examining you.
Can everyone get dental implants?
Most adults with healthy gums and enough jawbone can. Heavy smoking, uncontrolled diabetes or too little bone may need extra steps or a different option. We assess this at your consultation.