Dental Implant Surgery
Teeth serve an important role in our daily lives as it affects our speech, our ability to eat well and the way we look. Its loss through disease or trauma sets in motion the loss of underlying bony support resulting in tooth loss. This in turn affects support for our lips and cheek leading to a more aged appearance. Failure to replace missing teeth often leads to the opposing teeth overgrowing and the adjacent teeth tilting resulting in areas of food trapping which in turn may result in gum disease tooth decay.
What are the different ways of replacing missing teeth
Traditionally, missing teeth were replaced by either removable plastic or metal based dentures, or fixed bridges made of either metal alone, or porcelain fused to a metal base. Developments in dental material science have focused on developing more aesthetic materials with adequate strength, such as all-porcelain and zirconia bridges. While all of these are still very much in use today, implant based methods of replacing missing teeth are increasingly preferred as it provides greater biting ability and a more comfortable and natural feel.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are sterile titanium screws which are inserted into the jawbone as artificial roots to support and retain replacement teeth. It comprises 3 parts. The first part or “fixture” is placed within the jaw bone to replace the roots of missing teeth. The second part or “abutment” emerges through the gums and is used to carry the 3rd part, which may be a single crown or a bridge depending on how many teeth are missing. If we have lost all our teeth, we can use 4 to 8 implants in each jaw which when connected can support dentures or even a fixed bridge
How do Implants compare with alternative options?
When compared with removable dentures, they provide stronger support, firmer retention and are more stable. The implant supported and retained replacement teeth occupy less space and are more comfortable. They are also able to generate much stronger biting force. When compared with fixed bridges, they can be used even when more teeth are missing as they can provide stronger support over a longer span. They are also preferred when the teeth adjacent to the gap are weak or too small to provide sufficient support. Additionally, they provide an alternative to trimming healthy teeth.
Benefits of Dental Implant
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Are permanent replacement for missing teeth
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Has predictable and good long-term success rate
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Prevents supporting bone from shrinking after tooth loss
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Does not decay as it is made from Titanium
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Able to generate stronger bite forces for better chewing and hence better digestion and nutrition.
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Restores appearance thus creating more confidence and self-esteem Able to provide better support for lips and cheeks for a more youthful look
Types of Dental Implant
Dental Implants have been widely used for more than 40 years since the original scientific research was published. While many different implant systems are now available and are generally of high quality, our clinic prefers using implants from Nobelbiocare, Sweden and Straumann, Switzerland due to the extensive research and long track record. These implants come in different sizes and lengths and are generally at least 3.5 mm in diameter and 8 mm in length which differentiates them from “mini-implants” which should be used only as temporary supports or in very specific cases.
Are you suitable for Implants
Implants can be placed in most patients from age 18-80, even if you have lost your teeth for many years as we are able to regenerate bone in order to place implants as a foundation for your denture or bridge. Patients with health conditions should inform the dentist so that additional precautions can be taken, if required. Conditions which require attention include patients with significant heart disease, unstable high blood pressure, uncontrolled diabetes and patients on therapy for cancer. Surgery can still be performed after clearance from your medical specialist.
What is the surgical procedure like?
After giving some local anaesthetic, a small incision is made through the gums and a point of insertion decided. Drills of a predetermined length and with increasing diameters are then used to gently prepare the site to receive the implant. The implant is then rotated to the desired depth. The top of the implant channel is then covered with a temporary cap and the gums stitched either over or across after cleaning the surgical site and allowed to heal undisturbed for 3-4 months. A higher temporary cap called a healing abutment is often placed to avoid a second surgery to uncover the implant.
Is Implant Surgery Painful?
No, implant surgery is generally a minimally invasive procedure and in most instances the pain is minimal. If more major treatment is required, some post-surgical pain may be present. If you are fearful, we can arrange for you to have a complete pain-free experience either by performing the procedure under intravenous sedation or general anaesthesia within an operating theatre. The mix of drugs given will help you relax, sleep and eliminate pain. You will also usually be given a painkiller to take before the procedure so that you will be comfortable after the surgery.
How long does it take to recover from the Surgery?
After the operation, you may feel uncomfortable but this can be eliminated by taking the prescribed painkillers regularly. Some swelling and bruising is to be expected for a few days after the surgery. You can resume normal activity within a day but should avoid strenuous exercise and swimming. A normal or soft diet is advised and can be commenced after the numbness from the local anaesthesia wears off, usually around 2-3 hours after the procedure to avoid biting your lip or tongue inadvertently.
Same Day Teeth Replacement
Rationale for immediate tooth replacement
Losing a tooth, especially one of our front teeth can be very distressing for most patients. In addition to the effect on appearance and confidence, it affects our speech and on the long-term, the gums and the supporting jawbone will also shrink. A common request from our patients is to get a replacement for their missing tooth immediately, hence the advent of protocols for "same day teeth replacement". This could be done by partially loading the implant on the day of the surgery, or more commonly by using the adjacent teeth as temporary supports.
How long does it take for healing after tooth extraction and implant surgery
Teeth extraction and implant surgery are fairly routine and painless procedures and you will feel back to normal in just a few days. However, it takes around three months after tooth extraction for the bone to reform before placing an implant. In addition, it takes a further three months for the bone to grow around the implant in order to anchor it firmly in the jaw. During this waiting period, removable dentures, or temporary bridges made of plastic are used to prevent direct forces on the implant allowing the implant to heal.
Can this waiting period be shortened
Yes, it is possible to reduce this waiting period as implants can often be placed immediately into extraction sites for patients with missing front teeth. This reduces the waiting times significantly. In general, we are able to place implants to replace our front teeth on the day of extraction as there is usually adequate bone around and beyond the tooth socket to stabilise the implant. For back teeth, it is not always possible as there is usually insufficient bone after removing the tooth. Very often a bone graft will also be needed and is therefore a more technique sensitive procedure.
Immediately Loaded Implants
If the implant lies firmly within bone, it is possible to even allow partial loading immediately after the surgery. In combination, with the latest computer assisted techniques, it is possible to deliver aesthetic looking temporary teeth in selected cases within 3 hours after the surgery. The patients are however advised to avoid chewing on the implant, especially in the initial weeks after the surgery when the original bone anchoring the implant would have been resorbed with the new bone yet to form.
Is immediate loading of implants a new technique
No, the first controlled study of successful immediate loaded implants was published in 1997 after a successful 10 year study. Our lead clinician has been placing immediately loaded implants since early 1999. The success rate of immediate implants are comparable to that of implants placed using conventional protocols but is more technique sensitive as it requires the dentist to determine if the initial stability of the implant is sufficient for immediate loading. Done selectively, it is a useful option for patients with no other remaining teeth to anchor a temporary denture or bridge.
Aesthetics
How we look influences the way we feel about ourselves and affects our confidence in social settings. Everyone can look and feel good about themselves and be the best that they can be. At Precious Medical, our doctors will help you achieve that natural glow that is you. We provide medical grade, evidence-based treatment for problem skin, and help turn back the clock on facial lines and wrinkles. In addition, we will provide you with nutritional, diet and exercise tips to ensure a holistic approach to total health and wellness.
Problem Based Approach to Skincare, Facial Aesthetics and Body Contouring
While it is best to come by for a consultation with our team, we hope that this quick and easy guide provides you an idea of what can be done for your immediate concern.
Facial Grooves, Lines & Wrinkles
Injectables
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Botox/ Dysport to reduce root cause - repeated frowns and muscle contraction
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Skin Boosters like Profhilo/ Rejuran to stimulate collagen production and hydrate skin
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Fillers like Juverdem/ Restylane to fill up deeper furrows
Machine Based Therapy
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Radiofrequency (Thermage/ Venus Viva)
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Ultrasound Therapy (Ultraskin/ Sygmalift)
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Laser (BBL/ Fotona/ Fraxel/Smartxide CO2)
Pigmentation
Chemical Peels
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Usually with kojic acid/ lactic acid and vitamin C's
Laser & Light-based Therapy
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Laser (Smartxide CO2 Laser/Fraxel/Fotona Starwalker)
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Light (BBL)
Medication
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Lightening creams such as Cyspera and Hydroquinone
Saggy Skin
Radiofrequency Therapy
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Thermage (Single visit with doctor only)
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Venus Viva (Multiple visits with Therapist)
Focused Ultrasound Therapy (HIFU)
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Ultraskin (Single visit with doctor only)
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Sygmalift (Multiple visits with Therapist)
Injectables
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Skin Boosters like Profhilo/ Rejuran to stimulate collagen production and hydrate skin
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Fillers like Juverdem/ Restylane to fill up deeper furrows
Pimples & Acne
Medication
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Hormones/ Antibiotics
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Roaccutane
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Steroid Injections
Lasers & Light-based Therapy
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Laser (Fotona Starwalker)
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Broad band light (Sciton BBL )
Chemical Peels and Clinical Facials
Moles & Skin Tags
Minor Surgery
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Excision with scalpel
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Ablation with electrocautery
Lasers
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Removal using Smartxide CO2 Laser (Carbon Dioxide Laser)
Face
As we age, changes to our facial appearance takes place. At Precious Aesthetics we can help you to mask the signs of aging such as skin laxity, wrinkles, volume loss and sun damage through a series of simple, non-invasive measures sure as skin boosters, fillers and other injectables like Botox.
We also have available several ultrasound, radio-frequency, laser and light-based equipment which can help improve skin tone and texture, as well as enhance your appearance through face contouring. We advocate refinement with subtle changes to refresh and rejuvenate, using time-tested procedures for safe, predictable and consistent results.
For those who prefer more instant and aggressive management, our accredited plastic surgeons can perform face-lifts, tummy tucks, liposuction and even fat transfers or implants for breast augmentation. Speak to our team for a solution which best fits your needs and demands. Let us help you look the best that you can be and bring out the beauty in you.
ANTI-WRINKLES
The concept of "lunchtime treatment" for modern-day women are actually injections of a highly purified protein derived from a neurotoxin and is commonly used to smoothen and soften frown lines and wrinkles temporarily.
WHAT CAUSES FACIAL LINES & WRINKLES?
As we age, our skin loses its underlying supporting tissue known as collagen. This is made worse if we have had prolonged sun exposure, or habits such as frowning or squinting. The constant muscle contraction results in the formation of facial lines and wrinkles which deepen over time. BOTOX® & DYSPORT® resolves this by preventing the muscular movements which accentuate these lines.
SKIN BOOSTERS & HYDRATION
Hyaluronic acid is the component in our skin responsible for maintaining the moisture which gives skin its natural tone and texture. As the result of aging or prolonged sun exposure, much of this is lost and the skin needs a replenishment of hyaluronic acid to hydrate and boost its appearance.
HOW DO YOU KEEP YOUR SKIN GLOWING
The use of moisturisers as part of our daily skincare routine is important. However for that extra glow, replenishment of our skin's hyaluronic acid through direct injections can help you regain that youthful appearance immediately. Rejuran and Profhilo are two FDA-approved skin boosters which can provide the solution.
DERMAL FILLERS
Dermal fillers are gel-like substances made from stabilized hyaluronic acid that are injected under the skin to restore lost volume, smooth lines and soften creases, or enhance facial contours. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally-occurring substance that is already found in our skin, keeping it plump and hydrated. We use FDA-approved dermal fillers from Restylane, Juvéderm and Teosyal.
NON-SURGICAL FACELIFTING
As we age, our facial tissues lose volume and sag. Traditionally, a surgical procedure is required by a plastic surgeon to pull or "lift" the tissues either upwards or backwards in order to achieve a more taut youthful appearance. The surgeon will skilfully hide his incision lines along the hairline or natural creases in our skin so that the scar is not obvious.
While this is still the most effective method, many patients seek less aggressive procedures, such as minimally invasive "thread-lifts" and non-surgical machine-based techniques with little or no downtime. The most popular such machines use high intensity focussed ultrasound (HIFU), radio-frequency (Thermage) or lasers with various wavelengths.,
Skin
Our skin is actually our body's largest organ, protecting us from the external environment, as well as being an important part of our sensory system. It is also how the world sees us, so maintaining its health is critical. Skin needs hydration and nourishment in order to maintain that healthy glow, even colour and smoothness. As we age or when our skin's health is compromised, it can lose moisture and feel rough. The internal collagen fibres and elasticity break down, and we tend to have increased pigmentation due to sun damage, hormones or the aging process.
A healthy diet and lifestyle affects our skin appearance and tone as much as the products you put on your skin. For example, research has indicated a close relationship with diet and acne and that diets that are high in sugar and fat can lead to an increase in sebum production and acne breakouts.
At Precious Medical, we use medical grade lasers and light-based treatments carried out by our resident physician to rejuvenate the skin and address a wide range of skin concerns. We also provide the award-winning HydraFacial MD® system, as well as an assortment of medical grade facials and enzyme peels carried out by our therapists.
LASER & LIGHT BASED TREATMENTS
Sciton BBL
Sciton BBL (BroadBand Light) is a form of intense pulse light therapy (IPL) that is used to improve the appearance of skin with scars, excessive pigments or sun-damage. It works by using light as an energy source to stimulate the collagen and elastin fibers in skin, which in turn reduces fine lines and wrinkles, brown spots and freckles giving visibly smoother skin texture, and a more even skin tone.
Fraxel
Fraxel ® Dual Laser System is a non-invasive fractional laser treatment that uses light energy to promote collagen production. It does not cut through but gently passes through outer skin layers to deliver its effect in a controlled manner to precise microscopic areas known as microthermal treatment zones (MTZs) without affecting overlying areas. As a result, healing is faster and the recovery period shorter compared to traditional laser resurfacing.
RADIOFREQUENCY SKIN RESURFACING
Radio Frequency is delivered via a patented tip technology that creates micro-wounds in the skin to activate the natural wound healing process leading collagen remodelling as well as formation of new collagen. As the surrounding skin is intact, it serves as a reservoir for stem cells and relevant proteins leading to faster healing and less downtime.
PEELS
Peels are traditional treatments used ever since ancient civilisations and have different formulations to infuse the skin with active ingredients that remove dead cells, reduce lines, build collagen and improve skin tone.
CLINICAL FACIALS
Clinical or medical facials are treatments that use ingredients, products and technologies available only in clinics. Typically, a higher concentration of active ingredients and different technologies when compared to spas and salons. These treatments are usually carried out by a trained therapist who will recommend customised solutions based on your individual skin type, skin goals and lifestyle.
Body
We encourage our patients to adopt a healthy lifestyle but sometimes we do need a little help to achieve our preferred body shape, especially around the tummy, thighs, and back as stubborn areas of fats remain in spite of working out regularly and a strict diet. In recent years, as body contouring has gaining popularity and multiple treatment modalities have been developed to provide nonsurgical or minimally invasive alternatives to liposuction. Though results are less dramatic but with nonsurgical fat reduction, you cab return to normal activities almost immediately, and with reduced swelling and soreness.
Results can take up to a few months to show as compared to liposuction but once the fat cells are gone, they are permanently eliminated as fat cannot go back to that area. You will still need to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle as there’s potential for the other fat cells in the area to fill up and enlarge again. Multiple treatment ssessions are often necessary.
At Precious Medical, we provide FDA-approved systems such as Thermage® for body contouring and skin tightening, as well as miraDry® to treat axillary hyperhidrosis or excessive underarm sweating.
THERMAGE® FOR BODY
Thermage uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate the collagen in the skin in order to tighten it. It helps to improve sagging or loose skin and gives a smoother, sleeker and more youthful look and feel. Results come in two phases. You will see an almost immediate effect due to the applied energy, but the formation of new and tighter collagen which takes place over time will ensure a longer term effect of around 12 months. Latest developments include the patented Comfort Pulse Technology, which channels gentle vibrations, interspersed with cooling effects on the skin to reduce discomfort. There is little or no down-time.
MIRADRY®
It is a non-invasive treatment that uses microwave energy to target and destroy sweat and odor glands in your underarm. The electromagnetic energy from the machine penetrates through the skin into the sweat glands below and is converted to heat energy that eliminates the sweat glands. This is a permanent process as once the glands are destroyed they do not grow back.
REMOVAL OF MOLES AND SKIN TAGS
Moles are skin growths made up of cells that produce color (pigment) and can be found on all areas of the body. Most moles are harmless and can be removed by a doctor for cosmetic reasons. Skin tags are harmless small, soft pieces of skin that stick out on a thin stem and they are commonly found on the neck, armpits, upper trunk, and body folds.