ASK THE DENTIST: Q&A. How much downtime do I need to cater for dental implant surgery?

Q: I have 1 missing tooth and I am planning to get a dental implant. As an air cabin crew, I would like to know if I can get everything done during my layover in Singapore. Is it safe for me to fly immediately after the dental implant surgery?  

A:  Dental implants are a permanent solution for one or multiple missing teeth. They look, feel and function just like your natural teeth. 

If your dental and bone condition are deemed suitable after consultation and examination by the dentist, then the dental implant can be placed even on the same day as your initial consultation. 

A titanium screw – the dental implant, is placed into your jaw bone to replace the root of the missing tooth. The implant serves as an anchor for your new tooth. 

To ensure that you leave the clinic with a complete smile, a temporary replacement tooth will usually be fabricated and fitted on the same day as implant placement. 

The surgery can be performed under local anaesthesia. It is generally recommended for you to come back to the clinic for a quick review the next day. 

Thereafter, a healing period is required for the bond to be formed between the implant and your bone (osseointegration). During this period of two to six months, it is safe to fly and you should be able to speak and eat as per usual. Just take note to avoid chewing on hard nuts and the like on the temporary tooth. 

After that, you will need to visit the dentist to have an impression of your teeth taken for your new permanent crown. 7 to 10 days later, once the laboratory has fabricated the tooth, another last visit is required to have your permanent crown fitted. 

Your new teeth will look, feel and function just like your natural teeth. You should care for them as you would care for your natural teeth. This includes brushing with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day, flossing at least once day, and visiting your dentist every 6 months for a check-up and professional cleaning.

Dr Debbie Hong is an Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon with Specialist Dental Group®. She received her training in the specialty area of oral & maxillofacial surgery from the University of Singapore. Dr Hong was the Recipient for the Silver Jubilee Award by NUS Dental Society for her outstanding performance. Dr Hong has a special interest in dental implants, jaw surgery and complex extractions. For more information, visit www.specialistdentalgroup.com. 

Phone: +65 6733 7883.

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Do you have questions related to your teeth, mouth or oral health? 

Drop us a note with the subject titled “Ask The Dentist” at 

info@specialistdentalgroup.com to have them answered by the team at Specialist Dental Group®. 

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Specialist Dental Group® is a corporate sponsor of the Canadian Association of Singapore (CAS). CAS members enjoy a special rate for dental services. For details, send an enquiry via www.specialistdentalgroup.com or call 6733 7883.