Missing a tooth affects more than your smile. It can make chewing harder, cause neighbouring teeth to drift, and over time lead to bone loss in the jaw. Dental implants are the closest thing modern dentistry has to a natural tooth, and they are one of the most common questions we get at Nexus Dental Center in Ambattur. Here is what you should know before you decide.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post placed in the jawbone where the tooth root used to be. Once the bone bonds with the implant, a crown is fixed on top. The result looks, feels and works like a natural tooth. Implants can replace a single tooth, several teeth, or support a full set of teeth (see full mouth rehabilitation).
What affects the cost of dental implants?
There is no single price for an implant, because every mouth is different. The main factors are:
- Number of teeth replaced – a single implant costs less than a bridge on implants or a full-arch solution.
- Implant system – brands differ in design, research backing and warranty.
- Bone quality – if the jawbone has thinned, a bone graft or sinus lift may be needed first.
- Type of crown – metal-ceramic and full ceramic (zirconia) crowns differ in cost and appearance.
- Scans and planning – digital scans and 3D planning make placement more precise.
The best way to know your cost is a consultation, where we examine your mouth, take the necessary scans and give you a written treatment plan before anything starts.
The dental implant procedure, step by step
- Consultation and scans – we check your gums, bone and overall health and plan the implant position.
- Implant placement – under local anaesthesia, the implant is placed in the jawbone. Most patients are surprised by how comfortable this is.
- Healing (osseointegration) – over roughly 2–4 months the bone fuses with the implant. A temporary tooth can often be worn in the meantime.
- Abutment and crown – a connector is attached and your custom crown is fixed in place.
Recovery: what to expect
Mild swelling and tenderness for a few days are normal and usually controlled with the medicines we prescribe. Stick to soft foods for the first few days, avoid smoking, and keep the area clean as advised. Most people return to work the next day.
Who is a good candidate?
Most healthy adults with one or more missing teeth can have implants. Uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking or gum disease can affect healing, so we treat or manage these first. If you have lost bone, grafting can often make implants possible.
How long do implants last?
With good brushing, flossing and regular check-ups, implants can last many years – often decades. The crown on top may need replacing after wear, but the implant itself is designed to be long term.
Implants vs bridges vs dentures
A bridge needs the neighbouring teeth to be trimmed; an implant does not. Dentures are less expensive but can feel loose and do not stop bone loss. Implants cost more upfront but protect the jawbone and feel the most natural. We will explain all options honestly so you can choose what suits you.
Book a consultation at Nexus Dental Center
Have questions about your teeth? Visit us at Pudur, Ambattur, Chennai, call 073059 68439, message us on WhatsApp (93848 48439), or book an appointment online.
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for a personal dental examination.