Are Dental Implants Scary?

Lily Chen, a marketing professional and working mother of one, recently shared her dental implant experience.

She has had a dramatic oral health history! Fillings, extractions, root canals, crowns, and bridges—you name it, she probably did it. Despite her previous experiences with dentists, she was still nervous about dental implants.

Thirteen years ago, she had a decaying tooth extracted from her lower jaw. She also needed a dental bridge so she could eat properly. However, the bridge (the white piece in the photo) became uncomfortable and gave way five years later.

Related article: The Ultimate Guide to Dental Implants in Singapore

She was then given the option of having dental implants, but she was hesitant. She was terrified she wouldn't be able to handle the pain after hearing so many horror stories!

She eventually found the bravery and has never looked back. This is what she shared.

There Are Several Possibilities for Persons Who Have Missing Teeth

A dental implant is not the sole option for tooth replacement. Other surgeries to consider include:

• Bridges

• Dentures

However, Lily had already exhausted all other possibilities. Getting a dental implant was the only solution to her dilemma. This is not always the case for everyone.

Dental Implants Are Not as Scary as You Think

Lily was surprised to feel no discomfort throughout her implant operation. She didn't even realize the surgery was over.

However, she did experience some swelling (which is normal after dental implant surgery) that lasted approximately two days.

The dentist told me that the success rate of dental implants is approximately 95%.

However, You Might Develop an Infection

A reader inquired whether it is uncomfortable after her aunt had an implant that became infected. Lily noted that a patient's suffering is partially determined by the doctor's skill level.

Infection, on the other hand, is determined by how effectively you care for your wounds after surgery. Regular visits to the dentist and medications may help.

If You Have a Poor Pain Threshold, You Can Request General Anaesthesia

If you are extremely concerned about discomfort, Lily suggests consulting with your dentist regarding general anaesthesia.

Her dentist offered her the option of local or general anaesthesia, and she chose local.

Take Your Time to Locate a Good Dentist for Your Dental Implants

Are you afraid of going to the dentist but in need of a dental implant? Lily advises you to take your time finding a suitable dentist.

She recommends:

• Reading online reviews

• Physically visiting clinics to speak with dentists in person

• Consulting with multiple dentists before making a decision

She talked with two or three dentists before making her choice. She wanted to locate someone with extensive experience in dental implants who could answer all of her questions.

A Dental Implant Treatment Typically Costs Around $3,000

According to Lily, a typical implant in Singapore might cost up to $3,000. The cost varies based on:

• Your dentist

• The clinic

• Your dental condition

Related article: A Dentist Explains Dental Implant Costs in Singapore

There Is a Distinction Between Cheaper and Expensive Implants

Why do some dentists provide lower-cost implants while others charge higher prices? Lily had asked her dentist the same question.

Her dentist informed her that there was something called a mini-dental implant. They cost half as much as a standard implant. However, the mini implant was too thin for her molars, so she couldn't go with it.

Mini implants are ideal for patients who have a receding jawline.

How Long Did the Healing Process Last, and Were There Any Negative Effects?

Lily emphasized that the healing process was manageable as long as she followed all of her dentist's directions. She:

• Ate soft foods for a week

• Took her medications as directed

She did not experience much pain following the surgery. There was some swelling and minor discomfort, but it went away within two days.

After that, you must allow the implant to heal on its own for 2 - 3 months before contacting your dentist to set the crown.

Be Thorough When Questioning Your Dentist

When it comes to oral health, no question is too dumb. Ask about everything, including:

• Is this operation necessary, and what are the alternatives?

• How is the operation performed?

• What is the level of discomfort during and after the operation?

• What medicines are required, and how long is the recovery period?

• What post-surgery care is needed?

• Cost – Is it CPF claimable? Are there any other financial options?

You Will Normally Receive MC for 5 Days Following the Treatment

Depending on your condition, your dentist may offer you medical leave (MC) for up to five days after your surgery. Lily also received a five-day MC. However, she noted that by the next evening, she felt well enough to work on her laptop.

If You Take Proper Care of Your Dental Implants, They Can Last for More Than 15 Years

Lily mentioned that her dentist told her that dental implants can last up to 15 years or more if properly cared for, with studies showing a survival rate of 88% over 20 years.

The implant's quality and your body's acceptance of the external addition are also important considerations.

Finally, Establishing Trust and Communication with Your Dentist Is Critical

If you're terrified of dentists, Lily recommends:

• Learning as much as you can about the treatment to eliminate doubts

• Developing trust and open communication with your dentist

This can boost your chances of success and calm you down significantly!

If you're thinking of getting dental implants, remember Lily's advice on how to handle them. A huge portion of your fear is purely mental. A trip to the dentist isn't as unpleasant as you think!