A dental implant is an artificial tooth root made from titanium or titanium alloys, designed to be placed into the jawbone to address missing teeth.
The reason for using titanium and its alloys for these screws, which mimic tooth roots, is due to the material being both extremely strong and biologically compatible with the human body.
The primary purpose of implant treatment is to create healthy, usable prosthetics to replace lost teeth.
Implant treatment, which is very long-lasting and comfortable, can be applied to a wide range of patients, from those with a single missing tooth to those with no teeth at all.
For dental implant treatment to be possible, the patient’s jawbone must have sufficient quantity and density, and there should be no infections in the tooth gap. In cases where the jawbone is insufficient, a treatment plan aimed at addressing the deficiency in the jawbone is first created, and in cases of infections, a plan to eliminate the infection is made before starting implant treatment.
Dental Implants
Components of a Dental Implant
A dental implant consists of three main parts: the implant, the abutment, and the crown.
Implant: This is a small post, usually made of titanium, that is surgically placed into the jawbone. It acts as an artificial root for the new tooth and gradually fuses with the bone.
Abutment: This connector piece is attached to the top of the implant. It holds the crown in place and ensures a secure fit.
Crown: The visible part of the implant, which looks like a natural tooth. It is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your other teeth.
Types of Dental Implants
There are two main types of dental implants: endosteal and subperiosteal.
Endosteal Implants: These are the most common type. They are placed directly into the jawbone. Each implant can support one or more artificial teeth. They are usually made of titanium and shaped like small screws.
Subperiosteal Implants: These implants are placed under the gum but above the jawbone. They are used for patients who do not have enough healthy jawbone and cannot or do not want to undergo a bone augmentation procedure.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer a variety of benefits that can enhance your quality of life.
Speech and Chewing Ability: Unlike dentures, implants do not slip, making it easier to speak and chew.
Appearance: Implants look and feel like your natural teeth, helping you maintain a natural smile.
Durability: Implants are extremely durable and can last for many years, or even a lifetime, with proper care.
Bone Health: They help prevent bone loss that can occur when teeth are missing.
Adjacent Teeth: Unlike dental bridges, they do not require the alteration or shaving down of neighboring teeth.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
Dental implants can be successfully and healthily used for over 30 years. Some dental implant brands even offer a lifetime usability guarantee. For these lifetime guarantees, it is essential that patients maintain good oral hygiene and health, and be meticulous in their care.
Considerations Before Getting Implants
There are important steps to consider before getting dental implants. These steps ensure that you are a suitable candidate and help minimize potential complications.
Initial Dental Examination
The process begins with an initial dental examination. During this visit, your dentist will assess your jawbone, gums, and overall oral health. They may use X-rays to get a detailed view of your bone structure and determine the best locations for the implants. This examination helps identify any existing issues that need to be addressed before proceeding with implant surgery.
Determining Implant Candidacy
Not everyone is an ideal candidate for dental implants. Your dentist will consider factors such as medical conditions, smoking habits, and oral hygiene. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or severe gum disease need to be managed first.
Smokers may need to quit, as smoking can affect healing and increase the risk of implant failure. Adequate jawbone density is also important, as implants require sufficient bone to anchor securely.
Potential Risks and Complications
As with any medical procedure, dental implants carry some risks. Possible complications include infection, nerve damage, and sinus issues. Patients with weak jawbones may need bone grafts, which can make the process more complex. Other health issues, such as immune disorders, can also increase the risks.
Dental Implant Surgery Process
The dental implant surgery involves several steps, from preparation to the placement of the dental crown. Each step is critical for the stability and success of the implant.
Bone Grafting (If Necessary)
If you do not have enough jawbone to support the implant, a bone graft may be necessary. This involves taking a piece of bone from another part of your body or using a special bone substitute. The graft material is placed in the area of the jaw where additional bone is needed. Over time, the graft integrates with your natural bone, creating a stronger foundation for the implant. This process can take several months to fully heal before moving to the next step.
Implant Placement Procedure
Once your jawbone is ready, the actual implant placement procedure begins. During surgery, the surgeon inserts a titanium screw into the jawbone. This screw acts as the new root for the tooth. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia, and the gum is stitched over the implant to allow it to heal. This stage is critical as the implant needs to be positioned correctly to ensure stability.
Osseointegration and Healing
After the implant is placed, the osseointegration process begins. This is a natural process where the bone grows around the implant, securing it in place. Osseointegration can take several months to ensure the implant is firmly anchored like a natural tooth root. During this healing period, a temporary crown may be placed on the implant to maintain appearance and function.
Placement of the Abutment and Dental Crown
Once osseointegration is complete, the next step is attaching the abutment. The abutment is a small connector piece that attaches to the implant screw and supports the dental crown. A minor surgical procedure is performed to reopen the gum and attach the abutment to the implant. After the gum heals around the abutment, a custom-made dental crown is placed. This crown is designed to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, restoring both function and the appearance of your smile.
Care
Ensuring the success and longevity of your dental implants requires proper care and post-operative maintenance. Good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and promptly addressing any potential issues are key.
Oral Hygiene for Implants
Taking care of your dental implants begins with maintaining oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush, but be gentle around the implant area. Avoid brushing the surgical site directly for the first few days.
Flossing is essential, but be cautious around the implant area initially. To reduce the risk of infection, use an antimicrobial mouthwash like Listerine. Remember, infections are a primary cause of implant failure. Keeping the area clean helps the soft tissues around the implant heal properly.
Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular dental check-ups are crucial for monitoring the health of your dental implants. Follow-up appointments allow your dentist to check the integration and stability of the implant. These check-ups are typically scheduled within the first few months after surgery.
During these visits, your dentist can detect early signs of infection or issues with implant alignment. In the long term, your dental check-ups should include routine cleanings and implant evaluations.
Dealing with Potential Issues
Even with the best care, potential issues with dental implants can arise. Pain and swelling after surgery are normal but should subside over time. If the pain persists or worsens, contact your dentist immediately.
Signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus, require urgent attention. Avoid harmful habits like smoking, which can increase the risk of infection and implant failure. Routine check-ups help in early detection and resolution of problems.
Also, pay attention to how your implant feels. Sudden movements or discomfort might indicate an issue. Prompt intervention can prevent more serious complications and ensure your implant remains healthy.
When Should Implants Be Considered?
Missing teeth can lead to several issues, including difficulties in chewing, aesthetic problems, speech disorders, changes in bite, and potential issues with the jaw joint. For patients experiencing tooth loss, the first recommendation from dentists is often to address the missing teeth with implant treatment.
Dental implants are the ideal option to maintain oral health in cases of tooth loss due to periodontal diseases, untreatable decay, and trauma. Additionally, implants are the best choice when a fixed prosthesis cannot be applied (often due to the absence of the last teeth), when removable dentures are not preferred, or when conditions complicate the use of total dentures.
Who Are Not Suitable Candidates?
Young individuals whose bone development and growth are not yet complete, people who have undergone radiotherapy to the head and neck area, and smokers—due to the suppression of wound healing in the mouth and decreased success rate of implant treatment—are not suitable candidates for implant treatment.
Additionally, those with diabetes, high blood pressure, and systemic diseases, as well as individuals taking immunosuppressive medications, corticosteroids, and bisphosphonates, cannot undergo implant treatment unless their health conditions are adequately managed.
Life with Dental Implants
Dental implants can greatly improve your daily life by offering both functional and aesthetic benefits. They provide comfort and durability similar to natural teeth.
Daily Function and Comfort
Dental implants are designed to feel like natural teeth. Once healed, they seamlessly integrate into your daily routine.
You can chew food comfortably without worrying about the movement associated with dentures. This means you can enjoy your favorite foods without needing to make special arrangements.
Speaking with dental implants also feels natural. Since there are no moving parts in your mouth, you won’t experience the slips that can affect speech with some other dental options, resulting in more stable and confident communication.
Long-Term Benefits
Dental implants can last many years, sometimes even a lifetime. They are made from durable materials designed to withstand daily wear and tear.
Replacing missing teeth with implants helps maintain jawbone density, preventing the bone loss often associated with missing teeth and preserving your facial structure.
The permanent nature of implants means fewer visits to the dentist for repairs or replacements compared to other options like bridges or dentures.
Aesthetic and Functional Comparison with Natural Teeth
Dental implants look and function like your natural teeth. The prosthetic tooth or crown is custom-made to match your existing teeth, ensuring a natural appearance.
Implants stay permanently in place, unlike dentures which can slip or require adhesives. This stability contributes to the comfort and functionality of implants.
Implants allow you to maintain a natural smile and the same level of oral hygiene as with your real teeth. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups keep your implants in optimal condition.
Special Considerations for Dental Implants
Certain factors can affect the success and longevity of dental implants.
Effect of Smoking and Oral Health
Smoking can significantly reduce the success rate of dental implants. Nicotine reduces blood flow to the gums, affecting the healing and integration of the implant. This reduced healing can lead to complications.
If you smoke, consider quitting before implant surgery. Smoking also increases the risk of gum disease, which can negatively affect your implants. Regular check-ups with your periodontist and maintaining good oral hygiene are crucial.
Post-Treatment Nutrition
For the first few days after surgery, it is recommended to avoid very hot food and drinks. Consuming softer and nutritious foods can help you feel more comfortable until the healing process is complete. After healing, there are no dietary restrictions related to your implants.
Implants and Jawbone Health
A healthy jawbone is essential for implant success. A strong jawbone provides the necessary support for the implant. Bone loss or poor jawbone health can lead to implant failure.
If significant bone loss has occurred, a bone graft may be necessary. These procedures can be performed by oral and maxillofacial surgeons or periodontists. Regular dental visits help monitor bone health and address potential issues early.
Failed Implants
While dental implants have a high success rate, failures can occur. Common reasons include poor bone integration, infection, or mechanical issues. It is important to recognize symptoms such as pain, swelling, or implant mobility.
If an implant fails, your dentist may need to remove it and prepare for a new attempt. This may involve additional treatments or surgeries. Working closely with a prosthodontist can help you overcome these challenges successfully.
Can the Body Reject a Dental Implant?
Titanium has been used in dental implants for a long time because surface studies have shown that titanium does not interact with the tissues in the human body. Therefore, your implant is not likely to be incompatible with your tissues or rejected by your body.
However, factors such as infection during the healing period, excessive alcohol and tobacco use, and neglecting proper and adequate oral care can hinder or even prevent the integration of implants with the bone. This situation can lead to the loss of the implant.
Cost of Dental Implants in Turkey
The cost of dental implants in Turkey can vary depending on several factors, such as the number of implants, the type of restoration, and the materials used.
Price Range:
- Single Implant: £2,000 – £3,000
- All-on-4 Implants: £1,600 – £8,000
- All-on-8 Implants: £4,400 – £10,000
These prices are significantly lower compared to those in Europe and the USA.
Insurance typically does not cover dental implants.
If your jawbone does not have the strength to support the implant, a bone graft may be necessary. This means that in addition to the implant cost, bone graft procedures can add to the overall expense.
The Future of Dental Implants
Dental implants have made significant advances in recent years. New technologies and research efforts have made implants more efficient and accessible.
- Ceramic Materials: Ceramic materials are now being used for dental implants. Ceramics offer durability and a natural appearance, which many patients prefer.
- Smaller Implant Sizes and High-Tech Placement Methods: Smaller implant sizes and advanced placement methods are increasing the number of suitable candidates. If you were previously told you weren’t a good candidate, it might be worth getting re-evaluated.
- 3D Printing: 3D printing is revolutionizing customization. Implants can now be designed to meet your specific needs, resulting in better fit and comfort.
- Advanced Materials: Researchers are working on advanced materials like zirconia and titanium alloys. These materials improve the integration of the implant with the jawbone.
- Smart Implants: Future dental implants may become “smart.” These implants could detect tissue formation around them and adjust drug release to enhance healing.
- Additive Manufacturing and Biosensors: Additive manufacturing and biosensors are on the rise. These technologies promise to make implants more functional and responsive to your body’s conditions.
- Enhanced Surface Coatings: New surface coatings are being developed to improve osseointegration (the process of the implant fusing with the jawbone).
- Multifunctional Implants: Trends are shifting toward multifunctional implants. These implants could monitor bone health and release therapeutic drugs, taking on multiple roles.
- Refined Implant Procedures: The dental implant procedure is also becoming more refined. New techniques reduce healing time and increase success rates, making the entire process smoother.
These advancements are making dental implants not just a permanent solution but also increasingly accessible and effective. Keep an eye on these exciting developments.
