Our natural teeth are meant to last for a lifetime. However, there are cases where the teeth get damaged over time due to lifestyle or health problems. In these cases, extraction of teeth is necessary. It's important to have missing teeth replaced to protect your oral health. Losing a tooth hinders your ability to chew and can affect the surrounding teeth and gums. Losing a tooth can also affect a person's appearance, leading to a loss of self-esteem.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a surgical fixture or replacement tooth that is placed in the jawbone and fuses with the bone over the period of a few months. The implant acts as a replacement for a missing tooth. This artificial tooth root holds a replacement tooth, bridge or crown.
Implant Surgery procedure
At your first appointment, we will take multiple x-rays and a 3D scan of your jaw to determine the health of the bone and underlying tissue, and your suitability for dental implants. At your second appointment, the implant is inserted under general or local anaesthesia. An integration period of between 4 and 9 months is required prior to implant loading (placing the crown, bridge or denture).
Treatment options
Prof. Hendricks offers the following types of dental implant procedures:
- Placement of single tooth implants
- Multiple teeth implants
- Complete or full mouth rehabilitation