Dental experts have described dental implants as the “gold standard” for replacing missing teeth, saying the procedure not only restores appearance but also improves oral health, nutrition, speech and overall quality of life.
The views were expressed during a public awareness session on recent advances in dental implants and maxillofacial surgery.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Tauqir Ul Islam, Consultant Dental and Maxillofacial Surgeon and Head of the Department at Liaquat National Hospital (LNH) and Chughtai Medical Center, said missing teeth remain a major global health issue.
“According to the World Health Organization’s Global Status Report on Oral Health, diseases leading to tooth loss affect almost half of the world’s population,” he said.
Prof. Tauqir said a dental implant is more than a cosmetic treatment. “A dental implant is not just a treatment; it is a strategic decision regarding long-term health, comfort and cost balance.”
He explained that dental implants consist of a titanium root placed into the jawbone, topped with a fixed prosthetic tooth. “Dental implants are regarded as the gold standard for tooth loss because they replace not only the visible tooth but also its root. This allows the implant to integrate with the jawbone, preserving bone health in a way that removable dentures and bridges cannot.”
He said the absence of a natural tooth interrupts the transmission of chewing forces to the jawbone, leading to gradual bone loss, whereas implants restore this function by fusing with the bone.
Prof. Tauqir added that patients consistently report a natural feel after treatment. “The most common thing implant patients say is: ‘It feels like my own tooth.’ This is not just a feeling; it is a biomechanical reality. With high chewing power, zero movement or slipping, and no impact on speech, implants offer the closest experience to natural teeth.”
He said implants are particularly suitable for people with one or more missing teeth, those seeking a permanent solution, individuals tired of repeated dental treatments, and people who value aesthetics and quality of life.
He also noted that missing teeth can alter facial appearance by reducing support for the cheeks and lips, making a person appear older, while implants help preserve normal facial contours. With proper care, he said, dental implants can last for decades and often for a lifetime.
Chief guest Prof. Muhammad Zaman Sheikh, Consultant Diabetologist and Endocrinologist and founding member of the Pakistan Endocrine Society, said diabetes should not discourage eligible patients from considering dental implants.
“Dental implants have changed how we restore missing or damaged teeth, but what if you have diabetes? Can you still get dental implant? The good news is, yes, you can,” he said.
He said diabetes increases the risk of gum disease, tooth decay and tooth loss. “Diabetes affects many parts of your body including mouth. People with diabetes are more likely to have gum disease, cavities, and other problems with their teeth and gums, Untreated, these mouth problems can lead to tooth loss. Almost 25% of U.S. adults with diabetes ages 50 and older have severe tooth loss, compared with about 16% of those without diabetes, recent studies show that dental implants are safe for those with controlled diabetes,” added Prof. M. Zaman Sheikh.
Guest of honour Prof. Mudassir Iqbal Dar, Consultant Cardiac Surgeon and Head of the Department at Gambat Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS), said most patients with stable heart disease can also safely undergo implant surgery.
“Dental implants can be a life-changing solution. Most patients with well-managed heart conditions can safely receive dental implants with appropriate medical clearance and careful treatment planning.”
He said close coordination between dentists and cardiologists is essential, particularly for patients with a history of infective endocarditis or those requiring preventive antibiotics.
Prof. Dar added that blood pressure medications generally do not need to be stopped before implant surgery.
“Maintaining stable blood pressure is important for safe surgery and proper healing. Your dental team will monitor blood pressure throughout treatment, while any medication-related dry mouth can also be managed.”
The experts urged people with missing teeth to seek professional dental advice, saying timely treatment can restore oral function, preserve jawbone health and significantly improve long-term quality of life.
