“Doctor, I lost a tooth two years ago. Is it too late for an implant?” We hear this almost every week at both our Dombivli East clinics. The short answer is usually no — but the honest answer needs a little more explanation. Here is what we tell every patient who asks.
What a dental implant actually is
An implant is a small titanium screw placed in the jawbone where the root of the missing tooth used to be. Over three to six months the bone grows onto it and locks it in place — a process called osseointegration. A crown (the visible tooth) is then fixed on top. Unlike a bridge, we do not touch the healthy teeth on either side, and unlike a removable denture, it does not move when you eat or speak.
Who is a good candidate
Most healthy adults are. What we look at is the amount and quality of bone at the site, the health of your gums, and your general health. Controlled diabetes is fine; uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking and certain medications need to be managed first. If a tooth has been missing for years the bone may have shrunk — that does not rule you out, it may just mean a bone graft before or along with the implant.
What happens, step by step
- Consultation and X-ray: we assess the bone, discuss options and give you a written plan.
- Placement: done under local anaesthesia, usually 30–60 minutes for a single implant. Most patients say it is easier than the extraction was.
- Healing: three to six months while the bone integrates. You may wear a temporary tooth if it is a front tooth.
- Crown: an impression or scan, then the final crown is fitted. In selected cases a temporary crown can be placed the same day as the implant.
What affects the cost in Dombivli
Three things: the implant system used (Indian, Korean or premium European brands differ substantially in price), whether bone grafting or a sinus lift is needed, and the type of crown. A single straightforward implant is at the lower end; full-mouth work is a different scale. We give you the exact figure in writing after the X-ray — never a guess over the phone.
How long does it last
The implant itself, with good hygiene and regular check-ups, can last 25 years or more — often a lifetime. The crown on top may need replacement after 10–15 years, just like a natural tooth’s filling would.
Looking after it
Brush twice a day, clean between the teeth daily, do not smoke, and come for a check-up and cleaning every six months. The one thing that quietly destroys implants is gum infection around them — and it is entirely preventable.
If you have a missing tooth, the best time to talk about it is now, before the bone changes further. Bring your old X-rays if you have any.
Have a question about this?
Thinking about an implant? Dr. Karkamkar will examine the site, take an X-ray and tell you plainly whether an implant is right for you — and if a simpler option would serve you better.