Dental Implants · Kochi, Kerala
Dental Implants: Replacing Missing Teeth
Dental implants replace missing teeth at the root level, restoring bite function and appearance without altering adjacent healthy teeth. This page explains the process, from assessment to final restoration.
When Implants Are Recommended
- Single missing tooth, without needing to cut down neighbouring teeth for a bridge
- Multiple missing teeth, as a fixed alternative to a removable partial denture
- Full arch replacement, anchoring a complete set of teeth securely
- Failing or unstable existing dentures
The Treatment Process
Assessment starts with a clinical exam and a CT scan to evaluate available bone. The implant — a titanium fixture — is placed surgically under local anaesthesia and left to integrate with the jawbone over several months. A custom abutment and crown are then fitted to complete the restoration.
Patient-Specific Implant Design
For complex cases with significant bone loss, patient-specific implants can be designed directly from a patient's CT scan and produced by 3D printing — matching the exact contour of the defect rather than adapting a stock implant to fit.
Experiencing these symptoms? A focused clinical consultation is the fastest way to get a clear answer.
Book Consultation →Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Most adults with adequate jawbone and healthy gums are candidates. Where bone volume is limited, bone grafting can often create a suitable foundation. A clinical exam and imaging confirm suitability in your specific case.
How long does the implant process take?
A single implant typically takes three to six months from placement to final crown, allowing time for the implant to integrate with bone (osseointegration). Timelines vary with bone quality, the number of implants, and whether grafting is needed.
Are implants painful?
Placement is done under local anaesthesia and is generally well tolerated, with manageable post-operative discomfort similar to a tooth extraction. Most people return to normal activity within a day or two.
What is a patient-specific implant?
For complex jaw defects — after trauma or tumour removal, for example — implants can be custom-designed from a CT scan and 3D-printed to match a patient's exact anatomy, rather than using a generic off-the-shelf shape.
How long do dental implants last?
With good oral hygiene and regular review, implants commonly last 15–20+ years, and often for life. Longevity depends more on maintenance and bite forces than on the implant material itself.