Dental Implants – Dr. Sachin Mittal : Dentist in Hisar

WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS?

Dental implants, also known as teeth implants, have become the most preferred and effective solution for replacing missing teeth. Over the past 25 years, they have significantly transformed modern dentistry.

A dental implant is a titanium screw surgically placed into the jawbone beneath the gums, serving as an artificial tooth root. Once the implant is securely positioned, an implantologist attaches a custom-made crown on top, restoring the natural look and function of a real tooth.

Designed to mimic natural teeth in both appearance and functionality, dental implants provide a durable and long-lasting solution for a confident smile.

TYPE OF DENTAL IMPLANTS

Single Dental Implants

These implants are perfect for individuals who are missing one or a few teeth. Surgically inserted into the jawbone, a single implant features a titanium post that serves as an artificial tooth root. It supports a custom-designed crown that looks and functions like a natural tooth. Single-tooth implants provide excellent stability, help prevent bone loss, and blend naturally with surrounding teeth.

WHY CHOOSE DENTAL IMPLANTS?

Missing teeth can occur due to accidents, trauma, gum disease, tooth decay, or poor oral hygiene. If left untreated, missing teeth can lead to:

Difficulty speaking due to gaps in the teeth.
Problems chewing food properly.
Facial pain from an improper bite.
Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Shifting of adjacent teeth into empty spaces.
Changes in facial structure, affecting appearance and self-esteem.
Feeling self-conscious about smiling in public.

Dental implants effectively address these concerns, making them the best solution for missing teeth.

BENEFITS OF DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dental implants offer several advantages, including:

A natural-looking smile that enhances facial aesthetics.
Clear speech without worrying about shifting teeth.
A permanent solution, as implants fuse with the bone.
Long-lasting durability with proper care.
Prevention of jawbone deterioration by stimulating bone growth.
No need to modify adjacent teeth, preserving their integrity.
Resistance to decay, though regular oral hygiene remains essential.
No requirement for removal while cleaning, offering convenience.
The ability to eat all types of food without discomfort.
Improved self-confidence due to a complete smile.

DENTAL IMPLANT PROCEDURE

The process of getting a dental implant involves multiple steps:

Step 1: Implant Placement

The procedure is pain-free, thanks to modern dentistry techniques.
The jawbone is prepared, and a small cut is made to place the implant securely within the bone.
If the bone is weak, a bone graft may be required before proceeding with the implant placement.
Healing time varies, typically taking a few months to allow for new bone growth.
A temporary crown may be placed to maintain aesthetics while healing occurs.

Step 2: Healing Process

The implant undergoes osseointegration, a process where it fuses with the bone to create a stable foundation.
Healing takes 3 to 6 months, depending on bone health.
Once the implant is fully integrated, an X-ray is taken to confirm readiness for the next step.

Step 3: Abutment Placement

The abutment is the component that connects the implant to the crown.
This minor procedure is performed under local anesthesia.
A temporary crown is used for 4 to 6 weeks to allow gum tissue to heal.
Soft foods are recommended during recovery.

Step 4: Permanent Crown Placement

A custom-made crown is designed to match the surrounding teeth in texture, color, and shape.
Impressions of the mouth are taken to ensure a perfect fit.
The final crown is cemented or screwed onto the implant, typically within 2 to 3 weeks.
Post-procedure care instructions are provided to ensure long-lasting results.

POST OPERATIVE CARE INSTRUCTIONS FOR DENTAL IMPLANTS

To ensure smooth healing after your dental implant procedure, follow these guidelines carefully. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact your dentist.

Avoid disturbing the surgical site on the day of the procedure. Do not touch the metal healing abutment, spit, or rinse your mouth.
Mild bleeding or redness in the saliva is normal for the first 24 hours. To control excessive bleeding, bite down on a gauze pad placed over the surgical area for 30 minutes. If bleeding persists, consult your dentist for further advice.
Swelling is expected and can be minimized by applying an ice pack to the cheek near the surgical site. Use it frequently for the first 36 hours to reduce inflammation.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, but avoid hot beverages. Stick to a soft diet on the day of surgery and gradually return to your normal diet as healing progresses. Avoid using a straw.
Pain management: Begin taking prescribed pain medication as soon as the anesthesia starts wearing off. Always follow your dentist’s prescription for medications.
Oral hygiene is crucial for healing. Use the prescribed mouth rinse starting the day after surgery—twice a day, after breakfast and before bed. Rinse for at least 30 seconds before spitting it out. Additionally, do warm saltwater rinses 4-5 times daily. Be gentle when brushing near the surgical site.
Avoid tobacco products in any form, as they can delay healing and increase the risk of implant failure.
Limit physical activity after surgery. Intense exercise may cause bleeding or throbbing. If you experience these symptoms, stop immediately.
Healing abutments are placed during the implant procedure. Keep them clean by rinsing regularly. Once the stitches dissolve, gently massage the area to maintain cleanliness.
Avoid using dentures, partials, or flippers for a few days after surgery to allow proper healing.

POTENTIAL RISK OF DENTAL IMPLANTS

Dental implants are generally safe and highly successful, but as with any surgical procedure, there are some potential risks. Here are a few possible complications:

Infection: Though uncommon, an infection can develop at the implant site during or after the procedure. In such cases, antibiotics or additional treatment may be necessary.
Implant Failure: In some instances, the implant may not properly fuse with the jawbone, leading to loosening or failure. Contributing factors include poor bone quality, smoking, or certain medical conditions.
Nerve Damage: There is a slight risk of nerve injury during implant placement, which may cause numbness, tingling, or discomfort in the gums, lips, chin, or tongue. Though rare, this condition can occur.
Bone Loss: In rare cases, the bone surrounding the implant may deteriorate, which could affect its stability.
Allergic Reactions: While extremely rare, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to the materials used in the implant.

POST IMPLANT CARE

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for your dental implants, overall oral health, and well-being. Follow these tips to ensure the longevity of your implants:

Brush twice daily to maintain a clean and healthy mouth.
Choose the right toothbrush—opt for one with a small head and soft bristles for effective yet gentle cleaning.
Replace your toothbrush every 2-3 months to prevent worn-out bristles from damaging your teeth and gums.
Brush gently but thoroughly to avoid excessive force, which can cause abrasion.
Floss daily to remove plaque, bacteria, and food particles stuck between your teeth, helping to keep your implants in excellent condition.
Practice proper oral care at home to enhance the longevity of your dental implants.
Use a mouth rinse after meals to maintain optimal oral hygiene.
Avoid sticky foods, as implants may attract more bacteria than natural teeth.
Maintain a balanced diet, as good nutrition supports implant health and durability.
Schedule regular dental check-ups to ensure your implants stay in top condition.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q1. How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants are highly durable and can last a lifetime with proper care. Maintaining good oral hygiene—brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist every six months—ensures the longevity of the implant screw. However, the crown may need replacement after 10 to 15 years due to normal wear and tear.

Q2. Is getting a dental implant painful?
When performed by an experienced implantologist like Dr. Sachin Mittal, the procedure is virtually painless. A local anesthetic is used to ensure comfort during the surgery. If any discomfort occurs afterward, prescribed painkillers can help manage it.

Q3. What is the cost of dental implants in India?
At Dr. Sachin Mittal’s Advanced Dentistry, we provide high-quality dental implants at competitive prices. We use only authentic, manufacturer-certified implants to ensure durability and excellent treatment outcomes. For personalized consultation and pricing details, visit our clinic.