What is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots placed to replace lost teeth. Implants, usually made of titanium or ceramic (Zirconium) and surgically placed in the jawbone, support the prosthetic teeth installed on them, similar to natural tooth roots.
What is Dental Implant Treatment?
Dental implant treatment is the process of regaining teeth by placing artificial tooth roots in place of missing teeth.
Dental implant treatment aesthetically and functionally replaces missing teeth, thus restoring chewing function and smile aesthetics.
What are the Types of Dental Implants?
The most common types of dental implants are:
Endosteel implants
It is the most common type of implant placed in the jawbone in individuals experiencing tooth loss. It is usually made of titanium and can be in screw or cylindrical shapes.
Subperiosteal implants
These implants are placed on the jawbone and are connected to a frame placed under the gums. It is generally preferred in cases where the jawbone is insufficient.
Zygoma implants
They are long implants placed in the zygoma (zygomatic) bone of the upper jaw bone. Generally, it is suitable for patients experiencing bone loss.
Mini implants
These implants, which are smaller than standard implants, are generally preferred for temporary solutions or for use in narrow areas.
All on four implants
It is a system in which a full set of teeth is supported using four implants. It is generally applied to patients with toothless jaws or tooth loss.
Each type of implant can offer different advantages depending on the patient’s needs, bone structure and overall health. The most appropriate option should be determined by consulting your dentist.
How to Get a Dental Implant?
Generally, dental implant construction is done as follows:
The dentist evaluates the patient’s oral structure and general health. If necessary, x-rays are taken.
A personalized treatment plan is created for implant placement.
Under anesthesia, the gum in the area where the implant will be placed is carefully opened. After reaching the jawbone, a suitable slot is prepared for the implant, the titanium implant is placed and the gum is stitched.
It takes approximately 2-6 months for the implant to fuse with the jawbone.
After the implant is fused, the abutment for the superstructure is placed.
In the final step, a permanent dental prosthesis or crown is placed on the implant.
The prosthetic tooth is designed to be compatible with the person’s real teeth, colored and fixed on the implant. In this way, the missing tooth is replaced both aesthetically and functionally.
Going for regular check-ups, brushing your teeth, using dental floss, and performing oral care as recommended by the dentist can make the implant last longer.
What Should Be Considered After Dental Implant?
Immediately after dental implant placement:
You should not eat or drink anything in the first two hours, and very hot or cold foods should not be consumed on the first day.
The tampon placed to stop bleeding is removed after half an hour. Bleeding in the form of leakage may occur on the first day. Care should be taken not to rinse the mouth or spit to avoid increasing bleeding.
On the first day, cold should be applied to the implanted area at five-minute intervals to prevent excessive swelling.
Medicines prescribed by the doctor should be used regularly and in appropriate doses.
On the first day, you should rest and avoid smoking. Oral hygiene should be paid attention to and the dentist should be visited for regular check-ups.
Success Rate and Risks of Implants
The success rate of dental implant treatment can vary between 90% and 95%.
Factors such as the patient’s general health condition, oral hygiene, the dentist’s experience and the quality of the implant used can increase the success of the treatment. Some conditions, such as smoking and diabetes, may negatively affect the success of implant treatment.
Risks of dental implant treatment include infection, nerve damage, sinus problems, failure of the implant to fuse with the jawbone, and damage to the tissues around the implant.
Frequently Asked Questions About Implants
How much are implant prices?
Dental implant prices vary depending on many factors.
The type of implant (such as endosteal, subperiosteal or mini implant), the brand and quality of the implant used, additional procedures such as bone grafting or sinus lift, the clinic and location where the treatment is performed, the type of dental prosthesis, the experience and recognition of the dentist may affect dental implant prices.
Titanium implant or ceramic (zirconium) implant?
Titanium implants have been used for many years, are biocompatible, highly effective in the process of osseointegration, durable and reliable, lightweight, and have stainless features.
Ceramic (zirconium) implants offer a more aesthetic appearance and may be suitable for patients who are allergic to metal. It is also biocompatible, rustproof and durable, and compatible with gums.
How long does implant treatment take?
The duration of implant treatment may vary between 3 and 6 months, depending on the person’s condition and treatment plan. The most important point here is the process of fusing the implant with the jawbone. However, in some cases, implants and temporary teeth can be placed on the same day.
Are dental implants suitable for everyone?
Individuals over the age of 18 who are in good general health, have sufficient jaw bone volume and do not have gum disease are suitable candidates for implant treatment. However, some health problems and habits (such as smoking, diabetes) may affect the success of implant treatment.
How long does pain last after a dental implant?
Pain after a dental implant may be severe in the first 24 hours, but mild to moderate pain lasts 3-5 days. The dentist may recommend medications to relieve the pain.
How is an implant made?
Implant treatment begins with placing a titanium screw into the jawbone. After the healing process, a prosthetic tooth is attached to this screw. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and is painless.
How many years does a dental implant last?
The lifespan of dental implants can be extended by 20 years or more with a person’s oral hygiene and regular dentist check-ups.
When is an implant placed after tooth extraction?
The appropriate time for an implant after tooth extraction usually varies between 2-6 months. This time is necessary for the bone to heal and to create the space needed to place the implant. However, in some cases, dentists may place implants immediately after extraction.
In patients who have had at least one year since their tooth extraction, bone grafting may be required before the implant, as the jaw bone may melt over time.
