Before being transferred to Surat, Rameshbai had undergone some dental treatment and even had a molar extracted in Navsari. Her dental surgeon recommended implants, so she came to me for further treatment.

Rameshbai: Sir, I want to get an implant to replace a new tooth, but how should I choose one? Which brand would you use for your family member?

I said to Hasi: Of course brand is important, but Rameshbhai, the more important factor for the success of the treatment can be considered the skill of the surgeon and an experienced dental laboratory. Along with this, some patient-specific factors such as the different needs of the patient, the difference in their biological constitution and their healing ability are also important. The best brand of implant may be placed by the best surgeon, but if your diabetes is not under control, your habit of eating tobacco and smoking cigarettes or carelessness in maintaining cleanliness can also fail it. Basically, you are unique and 50% of the success of the implant is based on you.

Although there are over 150 implant manufacturing companies in the world, only the top 5 brands account for 75% of the global sales and only the top 2-3 of them are available in India. While choosing a brand for my family member, I will definitely give importance to the following things:

1) How long has the company been in business and what is its reputation in the international market? Does the company have a base in India?

To understand this, let us compare implants to our cars. Whether you take the cheapest car or the most expensive imported one, both have to be serviced at regular intervals and over time, some of its parts may have to be replaced due to wear and tear. Similarly, there is a possibility that in the long run, some parts may be required for the maintenance of your implants. Now, if the company itself is not established in India or the implants are sold through dealers, then the chances of getting them in the future (after 5-10 years) are less. In such a case, the implants that were initially purchased at a cheap price become a big liability for the future and may prove to be more expensive to repair.

2) Does this company do enough research?

Whenever something is put in the body, it is better if its quality is not compromised. Some companies improve the quality of the implant by researching for a long time (30-35 years). It can give the expected result and increase the success rate. Due to research patent, other companies cannot make a clear copy of it and that is why the research product is expensive, but according to me, such a company is worthy of trust.

3) Does this company have different options available?

The best implant for you may not be the best for me. Also, not all dental implants are the same and they vary in price due to differences in design, indication, technology, features, and quality. Since every patient's needs, bone quality, health problems, and habits are different, there is no one-size-fits-all option. Since your doctor is knowledgeable about each brand, it is important to understand the pros and cons of the options he offers and choose the one that you feel is the best value for your money.

Rameshbhai: Sir, now I understand, but if we choose expensive implants, will they come with a lifetime guarantee?

I asked Hasi: \"Sir, can you top up your life by paying more money?\" Money cannot even buy a guarantee of life. Choosing the best implant can only guarantee good quality. But how long it will last depends on the surgery by a specialist doctor, the choice of quality implant, your health and habits, the oral hygiene you maintain, and regular follow-up with the doctor. I must say that there is no lifetime guarantee for the implant, but it is in your hands to extend its life for life.