Author of the Article: Dr. Başak Kurdoğlu Öztemel
A dental implant is a titanium screw system to which a prosthesis is placed in cases of a missing tooth. Dental implants placed in the jawbone serve as a substitute for the tooth root. In cases of a single missing tooth, it is possible to replace the missing tooth without touching the adjacent healthy teeth, and thanks to dental implants, it is possible to use fixed prostheses instead of removable prostheses in cases of multiple missing teeth. In cases of total edentulism, thanks to implants, it is possible to fixate removable prostheses, which are difficult to use especially in the lower jaw, and tend to frequently come out of the mouth.
Placing of prostheses in dental implant treatment takes longer compared to conventional treatments because it takes around 2.5 to 4 months for the titanium structure to integrate with the bone, and, if any additional operations are done on the jawbone or sinus lifting is procedure is carried out, this process can extend up to 6 months. However, the results are very satisfactory and longer-lasting.
The existing prostheses of patients, especially those who have been edentate for many years, lose compatibility over time due to the constant change in the bones and begin to move and cause scars. As implant-supported prostheses are placed on a fixed foundation, it does cannot move or be removed from the mouth. It can be applied to people who do not want removable prosthesis or whose bone has lost its retention.
The operation, which is conducted under local anesthesia by anesthetizing only the area where the implant will be placed, is painless. Treatment process is quite comfortable if prescribed medicine is taken before the operation, antiseptic mouthwash is used after, and oral care is done properly.
Slight swelling and color changes on cheeks is expected, however, edema would swiftly decrease if cold compress is applied within the first 24 hours after the operation. Intense pain is not observed. The painkillers recommended by the dentist are sufficient to easily relieve the pain that may develop within the first day.
The retention of the implants to the bone takes an average of 3 months for the implants in the upper jaw and 2 months for the implants in the lower jaw, and afterward, porcelain veneers are applied to them. The retention process may be as long as 6 months if any additional operations have been made due to thin or insufficiently leveled bones.
It is possible in cases where only one tooth is pulled out and an implant is placed without cutting the gum in its empty socket.
Dental implants are made of titanium. Titanium, which is extremely biocompatible with the body, is a precious nontoxic metal that does not pose a risk of triggering allergic reactions.
Its application to patients who have systemic diseases that cannot be kept under control, as well as those who recently received radiotherapy and chemotherapy is unfavorable. However, as long as the disease is under control, implants can be applied to everyone. If the number of bone is insufficient in the examination, implants can be placed after a bone substructure is created with additional procedures.
It has been proven by many studies that smoking prevents the retention of the implant with the bone. The risk of the implant falling off is 2 to 3 times higher than normal for smokers.
The lifespan of dental implants is as long as as natural teeth. They can be used for a very long time as long as standard oral care is done properly.
Yes. With the help of the mini dental implant technology, the removable dentures can be compatibly used with implants after the operation.
