What is an Implant? Is It a New Treatment Method?
Dental implants are the most modern materials used to fill the gaps caused by tooth loss. Think of dental implants as artificial tooth roots placed in the jawbone to replace lost teeth. While a modern treatment method today, the foundation of dental implants lies in years of scientific and clinical research. The 1960s are considered the birth of dental implants.
What Are Implants Made Of?
Dental implants are made of pure titanium or titanium alloys, materials proven to be biocompatible (compatible with living tissues). A successful implant becomes a part of your body, and you won’t even feel its presence.
How Many Parts Does an Implant Have?
Dental implants consist of four parts:
1.The implant body, which remains inside the bone.
2.The abutment, where the tooth will be placed.
3.A screw connecting the abutment to the implant body.
4.The porcelain or zirconium tooth placed on the abutment.
What Types of Teeth Can Be Placed on an Implant?
There are two alternatives:
1. Fixed Teeth: Like natural teeth, these remain fixed in the mouth and do not need to be removed.
2. Removable Teeth: These are dentures that must be removed at certain times (such as after meals for cleaning or before bedtime). Implants in this case help support and stabilize the denture.
What Are the Advantages of Implants?
•No need to grind down adjacent teeth to fill the gap.
•Prevents bone loss in the area, maintaining aesthetic and functional continuity.
•Offers the possibility of using fixed teeth for those who have been using removable dentures.
•Quick, easy, and comfortable treatment.
•Mimics natural teeth successfully.
•Prevents shifting of remaining teeth after tooth loss.
•Can last for many years.
•Low risk of complications.
•Helps protect joint health with even chewing function.
Who Can Get Implants?
Anyone who maintains good oral hygiene, does not have severe systemic health issues, and does not use high amounts of alcohol or tobacco can get implants.
Can Heart Patients Get Implants?
Yes. Implants can be placed after consultation with a cardiologist, depending on the severity of the condition and medications.
Can People Taking Blood Thinners Get Implants?
Yes. Implant procedures can be performed after the necessary medications, including blood thinners, are evaluated by the prescribing physician. Sometimes the medication regimen remains unchanged, and in other cases, adjustments are made.
Can Diabetics Get Implants?
Yes. Implants can be placed after consultation with an internist, based on the severity of the diabetes and medications. Knowing the patient’s HbA1C level (which reflects long-term blood sugar control) is helpful for planning.
Is the Implant Procedure Easy, and Will I Feel Pain?
With advancements in techniques, implant operations can be performed quickly, easily, and painlessly by an experienced oral surgeon. One implant can be placed in as little as 8-10 minutes.
How Is the Implant Procedure Performed?
Implant operations are carried out by oral and maxillofacial surgeons in clinical settings. The treatment consists of four stages:
1. Examination: Assessment of the patient’s oral and bone structure, along with their systemic health, using panoramic x-rays or tomography.
2. Surgery/Operation: Like a routine dental procedure (such as a filling), but in a more sterile environment. The procedure is completed in 8-10 minutes under local anesthesia.
3. Healing Process: During the “osseointegration” period, the implant bonds with the jawbone, typically taking around three months.
4. Prosthetic Stage: The final step is preparing and placing the permanent tooth (porcelain/zirconium or removable denture) on the healed implant.
What Is Digital Implant Application?
This system uses digitally produced surgical guides to place implants, offering faster, painless procedures with easier recovery compared to traditional methods.
What Is Bone Grafting?
If the bone volume in the area is insufficient, bone grafts (in powder or block form) are used to create or increase bone volume for the implant.
What Is Sinus Lifting?
This procedure increases the bone height in the upper jaw where the sinus cavities have expanded due to age or tooth loss, making room for implant placement.
How Is Recovery After an Implant Operation?
Following your dentist’s recommendations and prescribed medications will ensure a smooth recovery.
Can an Implant Be Placed Immediately After Tooth Extraction?
Yes. If the tooth and surrounding bone and gum tissue are suitable, an implant can be placed at the same time as tooth extraction.
Can a Tooth Be Placed on an Implant Immediately?
Yes. If the dentist deems it appropriate based on a detailed examination, a temporary tooth can be placed on the implant immediately.
How Long Do Implants Last, and Are They Guaranteed?
Implants can last as long as natural teeth if certain conditions are met, such as proper patient selection, technique, materials, and expertise. Manufacturers typically provide material guarantees for implants, but as in any medical field, there is no guarantee against complications.
How Should I Care for My Implant After Surgery?
Avoid rinsing, spitting, or touching the surgical area for 24 hours, eat soft foods, and follow any additional instructions provided by your surgeon.
At A1 Dent Oral and Dental Health Clinic, our expert team, modern technology, and comfortable clinic environment ensure first-class dental services, including implantology. Contact us today for an appointment!