An implant is a surgically placed in the body to support a prosthetic or artificial replacement for a missing body part, such as a tooth. Dental implants, specifically, are typically made of titanium and are designed to mimic the function of a natural tooth root. They can support single or multiple replacement teeth and are a popular treatment option for individuals who have lost one or more teeth.
Which implant is the best for you
Dental implants are preferred when an individual has lost one or more teeth due to factors such as decay, gum disease, or injury. They are a treatment option to replace missing teeth without damaging adjacent healthy teeth as in bridge systems, and also provide a more natural look and function than removable prostheses. In cases of single tooth loss, dental implants can replace the missing tooth without affecting surrounding teeth. In cases of multiple tooth loss, dental implants can support fixed prostheses, allowing for improved chewing function and a more natural appearance compared to removable prostheses. They are also a good option for people who have difficulty wearing removable dentures. Implants are also a good option for people with a high jawbone density who have enough jawbone to support the implant.
Is implant for everyone
The suitability of the jawbone for implant placement must be determined by a maxillofacial surgeon using 3D tomography. This is important to ensure the best outcomes and avoid potential problems arising from diagnoses made using traditional x-rays.
Patients with significant systemic diseases or who recently received radiotherapy or chemotherapy may not be suitable candidates for dental implants. Diabetes can also affect the healing process following implant placement, so the disease must be well-controlled before the procedure.
If insufficient bone is present in the jaw, our clinic can perform additional procedures to build up the bone level before implant placement. It is essential to obtain written consent from the patient's physician if they have recent heart disease or high levels of diabetes. However, the implant can be applied to anyone if the condition is under control.
How long will take this process
On average, the implant application process takes 15-20 minutes per implant for an experienced surgeon. There may be waiting times before continuing treatment. The healing process for the implant to fuse with the bone typically takes three months in the upper jaw and three months in the lower jaw. Additional procedures, such as bone dust addition or sinus lifting, may extend the waiting period to 6 months. The healing process may be affected by the metabolic diseases of the patient.
How the surgery process
Dental implant procedures are typically performed under local anesthesia, making them painless by numbing the area of the implant. Not every missing tooth requires an implant. In cases of full tooth loss, placing 6-8 implants in the upper jaw and 6-8 implants in the lower jaw is common. The healing process can be managed with prescribed medication before and after the procedure, using an antiseptic mouthwash, and maintaining good oral hygiene. Patients taking blood thinners or other medications should inform their dentist before the procedure. After the procedure, slight swelling or color changes on the cheek may occur, but this usually subsides quickly with applying cold compresses for the first 24 hours. Severe pain is not usually experienced.
Process of bone graft
Bone grafts, also known as bone powder, are obtained from various sources. These can include human-derived, animal-derived, or synthetic materials. They are available in the form of small-particle powder or as a block. Bone grafts use in cases where there is insufficient bone in the area where dental implants are placed, such as when an implant is desired to remember during the same session as a tooth extraction. In pre-implant sinus floor lift operations or during teeth extraction, that has caused chronic inflammation and bone loss over time. Bone grafts help to promote healing and increase bone volume in these areas.