A dental implant is titanium screws that replace the roots of a missing or damaged tooth, which in its turn, is inserted into a prepared bony socket in the jaw and can be used to replace a single, several, or all teeth. Dr. Hussain, Founder and Specialist Prosthodontist and Oral Implantologist at Oris Dental Center in Dubai, UAE explains more about dental implants.

Dr. Hussain explains that first; the restorative dentist decides the type of dental implant that best suits the patient and requests some additional x-rays to determine the precise measurements.

During the second visit – after applying local anesthesia – the damaged tooth is removed, and the titanium implant post is inserted into the jawbone.

During the healing process -between 6 to 12 weeks- the implant will be osseointegrated into the natural jawbone so that the bone will grow and form a solid lasting foundation for teeth replacement. Once the implant is integrated into the jawbone, a small extension called the abutment is placed over the dental implant above the gum line and an impression is taken to create the patient’s custom crown, bridge, or denture.

Dr. Hussain states that dental implants have important advantages. It is safe because the prosthesis is attached to the bone only. Also, implants function in the same way as natural teeth and prevent bone loss, plus it helps in providing a natural chewing sensation.

Also, the dental implant can be used to give removable dentures a firm grip, and there is no need to use special glue to hold the false teeth in place. Additionally, studies have proven that implants can last up to 25 years or more if kept healthy and clean.

Dr. Hussain recommends dental implants to patients’ whose goal is to restore the appearance of the teeth. However, it is preferable if patients’ are over 18-years-old to ensure that the bone tissue is fully developed.

He adds, “Your restorative dentist must make sure that your oral hygiene is in healthy condition before treatment, because the longterm success of implants depends on good plaque control”.

Like any surgery, dental implants have some health risks. However, most risks can be prevented and are easily treated.

It is recommended that all implant patients’ follow a proper dental hygiene routine to prevent implant complications; it is important to brush, floss, and visit the dentist every six months to perform regular checkups and early diagnosis of gum inflammation around the implant, and avoid smoking.