An implant is a titanium post placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial root, with a crown attached once the bone has integrated with it. It replaces a single missing tooth without cutting down the healthy teeth either side. The trade-off is time and cost: the full process normally takes three to six months.
When this is usually needed
- A single missing tooth with healthy neighbours you would rather not cut down
- A denture that will not stay stable
- A tooth that has been extracted and not replaced
- Several missing teeth in one area
What happens, step by step
Assessment
X-rays and, where needed, a CT scan to measure bone volume and locate the nerve. Not everyone is a candidate, and we will tell you honestly if you are not.
Medical review
Uncontrolled diabetes, smoking and some bone medications significantly affect success. This is discussed frankly.
Placement
The implant is placed under local anaesthetic. Most people find it easier than the extraction that preceded it.
Healing
Three to six months while bone integrates with the implant. A temporary replacement can be worn during this time.
Crown fitting
An abutment and a custom crown are fitted once integration is confirmed.
Maintenance
Implants need cleaning and monitoring like teeth. Gum disease around an implant is what causes late failure.
Before any treatment
This treatment may not be suitable for every patient. Whether it is appropriate for you depends on an examination at the clinic. Before we begin, we will assess your teeth and gums, take an updated medical history, explain the available options, and obtain your consent. Nothing on this page is a diagnosis or a treatment recommendation for your individual case.
Aftercare
- Swelling and discomfort for a few days after placement.
- Soft food and no chewing on the site during initial healing.
- Smoking substantially increases the failure rate. If you are going to stop for anything, stop for this.
- Clean around the implant daily with an interdental brush.
- Regular reviews — implants do not decay, but the gum and bone around them can be lost.
Common questions
How much does a dental implant cost in Malaysia?
Indicatively RM 5,000–8,500 here for a single implant including the abutment and crown. Bone grafting, if needed, is additional and quoted separately. The full figure is given in writing after assessment.
How long does the whole process take?
Typically three to six months from placement to the final crown, longer if grafting is needed. Anyone quoting a same-week implant and crown is describing a specific and limited situation.
Is it painful?
Placement is done under local anaesthetic and most patients report it as easier than a difficult extraction. Discomfort for a few days afterwards is normal.
Can anyone have an implant?
No. It depends on bone volume, gum health, general health and smoking. Uncontrolled diabetes and heavy smoking materially reduce success rates. We assess this properly rather than assuming.
How long do implants last?
Many last well over ten years and often far longer, but that depends on cleaning and on not smoking. They are not maintenance-free.
Related treatments
- Crowns & bridges — Mahkota gigi
- Dentures — Gigi palsu
- Tooth extraction — Cabut gigi