An implant is a screw that acts like the roots of natural teeth and replaces natural tooth roots. It is called artificial tooth roots and is made of titanium. It can be prepared as fixed or mobile according to the needs of each patient. It can be applied to patients who have lost one or all of their teeth. With the application, it is aimed to regain the appearance, aesthetics and health of the teeth.

In Which Situations Can Implants Be Made?

Tooth loss can occur due to accidents, illness or tooth extraction. Implants play an important role in the general function of the mouth as well as their aesthetic benefit. When you lose a tooth, the surrounding teeth must adapt to cope with the increased pressure. In such a case, the teeth become prone to cracking and infection.

When the lost tooth is not replaced, the jawbone begins to deteriorate. The implant supports a healthy jawbone. It prevents the surrounding teeth from separating from each other. Treatment is needed to restore the delicate balance of the tooth structure.

The implant is applied in different ways depending on the missing tooth condition. If a single tooth is missing or more than one tooth is missing, a single implant is applied for each, while in completely edentulous patients, varying numbers of implants are applied depending on the health of the jawbone in order to hold the prosthesis to be placed in the mouth.

How is Implant Application Performed?

Implant application is carried out in two steps. After a general examination, the jawbone is prepared for dental implant surgery. Some patients may not have sufficient bone density in their jawbones. In this case, a bone graft procedure may be needed before the implant procedure.

During dental implant surgery, a small incision is made and the gum and bone are opened. A specially prepared artificial tooth root is placed on the gum. The implant is expected to fuse with the jawbone. This process can take 2-6 weeks. A temporary tooth may be provided during the waiting period.

Bone formation is checked by taking a dental x-ray. Then, the preparation of the tooth to be placed on the implant begins. Depending on the patient’s condition, implant applications are made in such a way that a prosthesis is attached for one tooth, two or more teeth or all teeth. It takes about 1 week for artificial teeth to be placed on the implant.

What are the Advantages of Implant?

Advances in implantology have minimized or eliminated many of the concerns about procedures in the past years. With new surgical techniques, it is possible to get more precise results and provide high comfort to patients.

The loss of one or more teeth affects the person at the aesthetic, psychological and functional level. It can cause a loss of confidence when communicating with others. Problems are encountered during chewing. General oral health worsens. Implants are the most modern and effective way to replace missing teeth and eliminate problems caused by missing teeth.

Both the look and feel of dental implants in the mouth are like your own teeth. They are permanent because they are designed to fuse with the bone. Implants are also an effective application for those who are uncomfortable with removable dentures. With proper care, they can last a lifetime.

It is possible to support general oral health thanks to durable, robust and useful dental implants. In this sense, implants are the best alternative to natural teeth. They can provide support with chewing habits and speaking skills. With dental implants, you can eat comfortably, use dental floss and brush your teeth.

Who Cannot Use Implants?

Of course, there are certain limitations to the use of implants. In order to place an implant, the presence of sufficient and healthy jawbone is required. However, even in patients who do not have enough bone to accept the implant, bone grafts can be created using a procedure called bone regeneration.

A dental implant can often be applied to anyone who is healthy enough to undergo routine tooth extraction or oral surgery. Heavy smokers, people with uncontrollable chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease, or those undergoing radiation therapy in the head and neck region should be evaluated individually.

Is There an Age Limit for Implants?

It is possible to apply implants to patients of all ages, depending on the patient’s medical suitability. In young patients, implant treatment can begin after the jawbone has fully developed. This process may coincide with the age of 17 for girls and 18 for boys. There is no specific age limit for adults. Implants are a very common treatment among elderly patients to replace missing teeth.

How to Care for Implants

It is recommended that you avoid hard foods that may damage your implant immediately after the implant surgery, that is, during the recovery period. A soft food diet is recommended for seven days. Special care should be taken up to 12 weeks after surgery.

In order to ensure the longevity of the implant, behaviors that may cause infection in the surrounding tissues should be avoided. Patient effort is important to keep the teeth free of bacteria and plaque and to keep them clean. For this, oral hygiene should be provided at home and you should have a regular examination by your dentist at least every 6 months.

The life of a dental implant requires maintaining certain lifestyle conditions alongside daily routine brushing and flossing. If you are smoking, it is important to quit, and even if you cannot quit, try to minimize it. Hard foods should be consumed with caution as they can put pressure on the implant. Remember, dental implant care is not difficult, but essential.

How long does dental implant last?

Dental implants are designed to be a long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last for many years, even a lifetime, in some cases. However, the lifespan of a dental implant can vary depending on various factors, including:

Oral hygiene: Good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash, are crucial for maintaining the health of dental implants. Proper oral hygiene can help prevent gum disease and other oral health issues that can affect the longevity of dental implants.

Bone health: Dental implants rely on healthy bone structure in the jaw for support. If there is insufficient bone or if bone loss occurs over time, it can compromise the stability of the dental implant and potentially shorten its lifespan.

Overall health: Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune diseases, can impact the success and longevity of dental implants. It’s important to disclose your complete medical history to your dental implant provider and follow any recommendations for managing any underlying health conditions.

Bite and occlusion: An improper bite or occlusion (how the teeth come together) can put excessive force on dental implants, potentially leading to implant failure or complications. Ensuring proper alignment of the teeth and a balanced bite is important for the long-term success of dental implants.

Dental implant maintenance: Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings, as well as following any specific care instructions provided by your dentist or oral surgeon, are essential for maintaining the health and longevity of dental implants.

In general, dental implants have a high success rate and can last for many years when properly cared for and maintained. However, individual results may vary, and it’s important to consult with your dental implant provider for personalized advice and guidance on how to best care for and maintain your dental implants for optimal longevity.

What are dental implants and how do they work?

Dental implants are designed to mimic the natural tooth root and provide a stable and durable support for artificial teeth.

The process of getting dental implants typically involves several stages:

Initial evaluation: Your dentist or oral surgeon will evaluate your oral health, including the condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone, to determine if you are a suitable candidate for dental implants.

Dental implant placement: If you are deemed a suitable candidate, the dental implant(s) will be surgically placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia.

The implant will then be left to heal and integrate with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, which typically takes several months.

Abutment placement: Once the implant has integrated with the jawbone, an abutment (a connector) is attached to the implant to serve as a base for the dental crown, bridge, or denture.

Restoration placement: After the abutment has healed, the dental crown, bridge, or denture is custom-made and attached to the abutment, completing the dental implant restoration.

Dental implants are known for their high success rate and natural-looking results. They provide a stable and permanent solution for replacing missing teeth, allowing for improved oral function, aesthetics, and overall quality of life.

Proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining the health and longevity of dental implants. It’s important to consult with your dentist or oral surgeon to determine if dental implants are the right treatment option for your specific dental needs.

Are dental implants painful?

Dental implant surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the implant site and minimizes discomfort during the procedure. Many patients report feeling only mild discomfort or pressure during the surgery.

However, some patients may experience slight pain or discomfort during the recovery period after the surgery, which can last for a few days to a week.

After the implant placement surgery, it is normal to experience some swelling, bruising, and minor discomfort in the area.

Your dentist or oral surgeon may prescribe pain medications or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage any discomfort. Following post-operative care instructions, including keeping the surgical site clean and avoiding certain foods and activities as advised, can also help minimize pain and promote healing.

It’s important to note that pain tolerance and recovery experiences can vary from person to person. Most patients find that the discomfort associated with dental implant surgery is manageable and temporary.

Serious complications are rare, but it’s important to contact your dentist or oral surgeon if you experience severe or prolonged pain, excessive bleeding, or other concerning symptoms after dental implant surgery.

Overall, dental implant surgery is generally well-tolerated, and the benefits of dental implants, such as improved oral function and aesthetics, often outweigh the temporary discomfort associated with the procedure.

Your dentist or oral surgeon will be able to provide you with more information about what to expect during and after dental implant surgery based on your individual circumstances.

What are the 3 types of dental implants?

There are generally three types of dental implants based on their design and placement technique:

Once the implant is placed into the jawbone and integrates with the bone, a crown, bridge, or denture can be attached to the implant to replace the missing tooth or teeth.

Subperiosteal Implants: Subperiosteal implants are less common and are used when there is not enough bone height in the jawbone to support an endosteal implant. Subperiosteal implants are placed on top of the jawbone, but underneath the gum tissue.

They consist of a metal framework that is custom-made to fit the shape of the jawbone and has posts that protrude through the gum to hold the artificial teeth in place.

All-on-4® Implants: All-on-4® implants are a specialized type of dental implant technique used for full arch tooth replacement in cases where a patient has lost most or all of their teeth in one jaw. Four strategically placed implants are used to support a full arch of fixed dentures, providing a stable and functional solution for patients with extensive tooth loss.

It’s important to note that the specific type of dental implant used may vary depending on factors such as the patient’s oral health, bone quality and quantity, and the recommendations of the dental professional performing the implant procedure.

Your dentist or oral surgeon will determine the most appropriate type of dental implant for your individual case after a thorough evaluation of your oral health and treatment needs.

Can you eat after dental implants?

After dental implant surgery, it is typically recommended to follow a soft or liquid diet for the first few days to allow for proper healing of the surgical site and to avoid chewing on the implant area. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide specific instructions on when and what you can eat after dental implant surgery, and it’s important to follow these instructions carefully for optimal healing and success of the implant.

In general, after the initial healing period, which usually lasts a few days to a week, you should be able to gradually resume a normal diet, including solid foods.

However, it’s important to be cautious and avoid biting into hard or crunchy foods directly on the implant site, especially during the early stages of healing.

Instead, you may be advised to stick to softer foods, such as cooked vegetables, eggs, pasta, and fish, and avoid foods that are excessively hot, cold, or spicy.

Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as gentle brushing and flossing, is also crucial to ensure proper healing of the implant and to prevent infection.

Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide you with detailed post-operative care instructions, including dietary guidelines, to follow after dental implant surgery to promote successful healing and long-term implant success.

It’s important to follow these instructions closely and communicate with your dental professional if you have any questions or concerns.

How long does it take for implants to heal?

The healing time for dental implants can vary depending on various factors, including the individual patient, the complexity of the case, the location of the implant in the mouth, and the type of implant procedure performed.

In general, the healing process for dental implants occurs in stages and can take several months to complete.

Initial healing: After the implant surgery, the initial healing period typically lasts for a few days to a week.

During this time, you may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort at the surgical site. Pain medications and antibiotics may be prescribed by your dentist or oral surgeon to manage any discomfort and prevent infection.

Osseointegration: The next stage of healing is called osseointegration, which is the process where the implant fuses with the surrounding bone.

This process can take several weeks to several months, depending on various factors such as the quality and density of the bone, and your body’s healing response. It is important to follow your dentist or oral surgeon’s instructions for oral hygiene and dietary restrictions during this period to support successful osseointegration.

Prosthetic phase: Once osseointegration is complete, your dentist will place a prosthetic crown, bridge, or denture on top of the implant.

The fabrication and placement of the prosthetic teeth may take several appointments and can vary depending on the type of prosthesis and the complexity of the case.

It’s important to note that the total healing time for dental implants can vary from patient to patient and case to case. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide you with a personalized treatment plan and timeline based on your specific needs and circumstances.

Regular follow-up appointments with your dental professional are important to monitor the healing progress and ensure the long-term success of your dental implants.

How do you sleep after a dental implant?

After undergoing dental implant surgery, it’s important to take proper care during the healing process, including considering your sleeping position. Here are some tips on how to sleep after a dental implant:

Avoid sleeping on the side of the dental implant: It’s generally recommended to avoid sleeping directly on the side of the mouth where the dental implant was placed, especially during the initial healing period.

The pressure from sleeping on the implant site can potentially disrupt the healing process and cause discomfort.

Sleep with your head elevated: Keeping your head elevated can help reduce swelling and discomfort after dental implant surgery. You can use an extra pillow or elevate the head of your bed slightly to help minimize swelling and promote healing.

Follow your dentist’s instructions: Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide you with specific post-operative instructions, including any restrictions on sleeping positions. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully for optimal healing and to minimize the risk of complications.

Avoid putting pressure on the implant area: Be mindful of not applying excessive pressure or force on the dental implant area while sleeping. This includes avoiding biting down forcefully or grinding your teeth, which can potentially damage the implant or the surrounding tissue.

Be gentle with oral hygiene routine: During the healing process, it’s important to be gentle with your oral hygiene routine to avoid irritating the implant site. Avoid brushing or flossing aggressively around the implant area, and follow your dentist’s instructions for oral care.

It’s important to consult with your dentist or oral surgeon for personalized instructions on how to sleep after dental implant surgery, as the recommendations may vary depending on the specifics of your case. Following proper post-operative care instructions can help ensure successful healing and long-term success of your dental implant.

What are the side effects of a dental implant?

Like any surgical procedure, dental implant surgery can have potential side effects. These may include:

Pain and discomfort: Pain and discomfort are common side effects after dental implant surgery. This can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications or prescribed pain medication from your dentist or oral surgeon.

Swelling and bruising: Swelling and bruising around the implant site and surrounding tissues can occur after surgery. This is a normal part of the healing process and typically subsides on its own within a few days to a week.

Bleeding and bruising: Some bleeding and bruising at the surgical site can be expected after dental implant surgery. This usually resolves on its own, but if excessive bleeding occurs, it should be reported to your dentist or oral surgeon.

Infection: Infection is a potential risk with any surgical procedure, including dental implant surgery. Your dentist or oral surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to care for the implant site to reduce the risk of infection.

Nerve damage: Dental implant surgery involves manipulation of tissues in the oral cavity, and in rare cases, nerves in the surrounding area can be affected, resulting in temporary or permanent numbness, tingling, or other sensory changes.

Implant failure: While dental implants have a high success rate, there is a risk of implant failure. Factors such as poor oral hygiene, smoking, and certain medical conditions may increase the risk of implant failure.

Sinus issues (for upper jaw implants): Dental implants in the upper jaw may sometimes extend into the sinus cavity, which can cause sinus issues such as congestion, pressure, or infection in some cases.

It’s important to discuss any potential side effects or risks associated with dental implant surgery with your dentist or oral surgeon before undergoing the procedure. They will provide you with detailed information and guidance on what to expect and how to care for your dental implant during the healing process.