Dental implants in Mombasa: are they right for you?

A missing tooth is not only a cosmetic problem. The bone that once supported it begins to shrink, neighbouring teeth tilt into the gap, the opposing tooth over-erupts, and chewing efficiency drops. A dental implant is currently the closest replacement to a natural tooth.

What an implant actually is

An implant is a small titanium screw placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial root. Over three to six months the bone fuses to its surface — a process called osseointegration. An abutment is then attached, and a custom crown is fitted on top. Implants can also anchor bridges or stabilise a loose full denture.

Who is a good candidate

You need healthy gums, enough bone volume, and good general health. Uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking, untreated gum disease and certain bone medications reduce success rates. Smoking is the single biggest modifiable risk factor for implant failure — stopping before and after surgery markedly improves outcomes.

The treatment timeline

First, an assessment with X-rays to measure bone height and locate nerves and sinuses. Any gum disease or decay is treated first. Placement surgery is done under local anaesthetic and usually takes under an hour per implant. Healing follows over three to six months, sometimes with a temporary tooth in place. Finally, impressions are taken and the permanent crown is fitted.

Implant, bridge or denture?

A bridge is quicker and cheaper but requires cutting down the healthy teeth either side and does not preserve bone. A removable denture is the most affordable option and can replace many teeth at once, but it is less stable and needs periodic adjustment. An implant preserves bone, leaves neighbouring teeth untouched and lasts longest — at a higher initial cost.

How long do implants last?

With good hygiene and regular reviews, the implant itself can last decades; large long-term studies report survival above 90 percent at ten years. The crown may need replacing after 10–15 years of normal wear. The main threat is peri-implantitis — gum disease around an implant — which is preventable with meticulous cleaning and professional maintenance.

Does it hurt?

Placement is done with local anaesthetic and most patients report less discomfort than a difficult extraction. Mild soreness and swelling for a few days is normal and controlled with standard painkillers.

Aftercare

Clean around implants exactly as you would natural teeth, adding interdental brushes or a water flosser under any bridgework. Attend six-monthly reviews so we can check the tissues and take periodic X-rays of the bone level.

Implant consultation in Mombasa

Ocean Smile Dental Clinic offers implant assessment, placement and restoration with on-site imaging at our Moi Avenue clinic. WhatsApp or call 0713 276 793 to arrange a consultation and a written treatment plan.