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Dental Implants in Cebu Philippines

A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jaw bone and integrates with the bone structure to provide support for bridges, crowns or dentures. A full row of implants can be used to create a full dental reconstruction. It is the only procedure which maintains the strength and integrity of the jawbone and provides an independent restoration without having to damage neighbouring healthy tooth tissue.

The procedure

Placing dental implants requires the skill of an experienced dental surgeon and it is advisable to check the credentials of the dentist offering implants and his or her experience in this field. Implants can often be placed under local anaesthesia and IV sedation but in some cases a general anaesthetic may be required. The gum where the implant is to be placed is cut and lifted and a small hole is drilled into the jawbone using a special drill. The titanium implant is tightly fitted into this hole and then the gum stitched back over the implant. If there is insufficient bone material to accommodate the implant a bone graft may be required or alternatively the dentist may use smaller sized mini implants.

Over the next 6 months the implant heals and integrates with the surrounding jawbone. During this time patients can continue to wear dentures. After 6 months the gum is lifted again and a post is attached to the implant with a temporary crown. 4-6 weeks later when the surrounding gum tissue has matured the final permanent restoration can be fitted to the implant. Dental implants provide a strong, long-term solution to missing teeth and can last upto 20 years.