Teeth are incredibly important because they allow a person to properly chew food and speak. Furthermore, the teeth influence how a person looks. Missing teeth can make it difficult to eat, especially hard foods, and to pronounce some words when talking. Furthermore, there are social stigmas linked with missing teeth. Fortunately, there are now options to help persons who have missing teeth. In Singapore, one option is dental implants which have become the preferred tooth replacement technique for many Singaporeans. The popularity of dental implants stems from their aesthetic and functional advantages over other techniques of tooth replacement. Find out more about dental implants and Medisave coverage in Singapore.
Dental implants is a dental procedure in Singapore where the missing teeth or damaged teeth are replaced by using small metal screws (or metal posts/fixtures) that are positioned into the jawbone of a person that act as tooth roots which are then attached with artificial teeth (or prosthesis) made to look like the original/natural teeth. The process is done surgically and is sometimes called dental implant surgery in some references.
There are different types of dental implants and in Singapore, the following are the classifications used:
- Single Tooth Implant-as the name implies, this is a replacement of just a tooth and is typically used when a patient simply has one or a few missing teeth. This is the most common type used in Singapore
- Implant Supported Bridge-when several teeth are to be replaced, dental implants can be used to support an implant-retained bridge which can replace up to six teeth in a row with just two supporting implants. This method is less expensive than inserting a single implant for each missing tooth, and the bridge will appear to be a row of natural teeth once in place.
- Implant Retained/Supported Denture-this is a viable option for individuals who are missing all of their teeth. In this type of dental implant, all missing teeth will be replaced by using a pair of implants to keep or support a denture.
Dental implants, unlike other options, do not need the support of adjacent teeth is one of its advantages. Other advantages of dental implants include it being permanent since the implant’s surface layer is designed to allow human bone to grow around it, keeping it in place or fixed within the jaw. Moreover, because dental implants are fixed, there is less worry that they may slip when talking and will not affect speech. Getting dental implants also does not affect the person’s facial structure and features. It is more convenient and comfortable as it does not need to be removed for cleaning or reattached with adhesives. Dental implants are said to be more durable and can last a lifetime if well taken-cared of. All in all, dental implants make it possible to improve one’s oral health.
To get dental implants in Singapore, the following are the series of stages commonly undertaken:
- Initial Consultation
Almost all medical procedures will have an initial consultation, and obtaining dental implants is no exception. The initial consultation with the dentist will involve the thorough and detailed examination of the patient’s oral health and determine the suitability to the dental implants. The dentist will also see if there are any underlying oral health problems. The common methods used by the dentist are X-ray imaging and 3D intraoral scanning. During the initial consultation, the dentist will determine and recommend the best type of dental implant for the patient, as well as other solutions if dental implants are not an option. The initial visit will also give the dentist important information about whether other surgical procedures are required before dental implants can be placed. Sinus lift, bone grafting, and extraction of damaged teeth are common surgical procedures performed prior to dental implant surgery, and the patient must be fully recovered before proceeding with dental implants.
- Placement of Implant
When the patient is ready (i.e. after sinus lift, etc. are completed and successful), the dentist will begin placing the implant. The dentist will utilize a 3D printed implant guide based on previously obtained X-ray images and intraoral scans to properly place the dental implants. The 3D implant guide will also ensure that implants are placed as planned, resulting in a quick and successful treatment. Depending on the patient’s needs, the treatment is performed under local or general anesthesia. The dentist will make a cut in the gums to expose the patient’s bones in order to put the implant fixture. Deep holes will be drilled into the bones, and a metal pole serving as a tooth root will be inserted. Usually, the process of osseointegration where bone and tissue grows into/around a dental implant is required before the dental prosthesis (i.e., implant crown, implant-supported bridge, or implant-retained denture) are placed. The dental prosthesis will be custom-made to blend in with your natural teeth and fit snugly within your mouth.
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Review and Follow-Up Checkups
Usually, two weeks after the conduct of dental implant surgery in Singapore, the patient will need to visit the dentist to have the implants checked and for removal of stitches if there is any. Regular check-ups every 6-8 months is also necessary to enable the dentist to assess your overall oral health, the integrity of your dental implants, and address any other potential oral health issues you may have before they become more serious oral health issues. Regular dental examinations are critical for the long-term success of your dental implants since healthy teeth and gums will considerably extend the lifespan of your dental implants.
The cost of dental implants in Singapore will vary. The cost will depend on the type and brand of implants to be used, the material used to make the crown (artificial tooth), dentures or bridges, and if other surgical methods are required prior to the placement of dental implants. Additionally, the number of dental implants to be performed as part of the overall treatment plan will also increase the total cost. It is important to note though that dental implant is Medisave claimable. Dental implants in Singapore typically cost between $2,500 and $6,000 per dental implant, before Medisave. Per dental implant, the Medisave coverage of up to $1250.
Dennis Tan Dental Surgery – Dr Dennis Tan
22 Malacca St, # 03-01,
RB Capital Building, S(048980)
+65 6438 5622
+65 8874 7681 (Whatsapp)
