Dental Implants

Dental implants are small titanium posts inserted into the jawbone by a Maxillofacial and Oral Surgeon (MFOS) as a tooth replacement.

ABOUT PROCEDURE

Dental implants are tooth replacements made of titanium or titanium alloys. A Maxillofacial and Oral Surgeon (MFOS) will insert these small titanium posts into the jawbone where teeth are missing (or extract the ‘bad’ teeth before doing so).

Dental implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth or an entire edentulous arch (upper and/or lower jaw without any teeth). Where there are multiple teeth missing, the type and number of implants placed will depend on each patient’s specific requirements and treatment objectives. Implants can also be placed to support fixed teeth or to support a denture.

Dr Beukes has a special interest in complex implant cases (with or without bone grafting) as well as in the repairing or replacing of failed implants. An incorrectly executed dental implant can lead to a significant amount of pain and discomfort for patients, which is where Dr Beukes offers relief.

OPERATION INFORMATION

Hospitalisation	Either 1 day (no overnight stay) or done in the doctor’s rooms in an hour or more
Anesthesia	General or local anaesthetic
Duration	Depends on the extent of surgery required
Recovery Period	Approximately 3 months for the implants to heal into the bone (osseointegration)
Stich Removal	7-10 days (if required)
Costs	From R12500

In Partnership With:

Dr Peter van der meulen

Specialist Prosthodontist

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is it painful to have dental implants put in?

Although pain is subjective, many patients have reported that the procedure of receiving dental implants involved less discomfort and pain than that of having a tooth extracted. Post-operative pain can be easily controlled and is very seldom significant.
What is bone grafting and when is it needed for dental implants?

Bone grafting is the surgical transplantation of bone tissue to rebuild, repair or reconstruct lost bone mass. This process is only necessary before a dental implant if the patient is lacking in adequate bone mass in their jaw, as the dental implants are inserted into the jawbone and the titanium post will need to be supported by the bone mass. A bone graft can also restore the contour and shape of a patient’s jaw if it has gone through some form of atrophy or shrinking.
What will happen if I do not get dental implants after losing teeth?

Dr Beukes’ philosophy is to recommend treatments according to each unique patient and their needs. He believes that one should not have dental implants placed out of fear of what might happen – especially as it is not life-threatening to not replace missing teeth. Dental implants can, however, serve as a life-enhancing alternative which optimises function. For example, one could have a crown which is supported by a dental implant. In extreme cases, having a missing tooth for up to 12 months may cause atrophy in the jawbone (the deterioration of bone density and decrease in its size and height) or result in other teeth moving into the space. To find out the ideal solution for your specific case, opt for a consultation with Dr Beukes.
What are the benefits of dental implants?

The benefits fit into two categories – function and aesthetics. Dental implants are a structurally sound tooth replacement option that acts as your natural teeth would. They provide a healthy bite which keeps each tooth properly in place while supporting a healthy jawbone and preventing bone deterioration. They aim to be a permanent solution (making them durable and long-lasting), which adds to the convenience of them not having to be removed for brushing, eating, drinking or sleeping. Aesthetically, dental implants can give you back the confidence to smile and to speak more, without feeling self-conscious about your missing teeth.